RUSH

You'd think, after listening to this album, that Rush was nothing more than a talented cover band with a fair amount of potential. However, we know from other Rush albums what the stellar pair of Lee and Lifeson will grow into when Peart joins the group. Rutsey, the original drummer, is still a good drummer, yet he is in no way comparable to the changes that Neil brought to the band. At this point in their career, Rush draws heavily on influences such as Zeppelin and Cream, as evident in the anthemic Finding My Way or the bluesy Here Again. Working Man is arguably one of the greatest songs on the album; a foreshadow to the progressive turn the band would take on their subsequent albums, it became a concert staple for years to come (Even appearing on Rush in Rio!) Other notable songs include In The Mood and Before And After. While this album is a must have for any Rush fans, any newcomers to the band would be wise to stick with the classics, namely 2112 and Moving Pictures.