FLY BY NIGHT

This is Rush's second album, and so began the evolution of a great band. Rush's new drummer would also be responsible for the bulk of the band's lyrical content, reflecting both his philosophy of Objectivism and his penchant for the mythical, fantastical, and science-fiction. The first half is full of fast, crunchy, riff-based rock music, whilst the second half is far more acoustic and simplistic. It's a must for Rush fans, and a good album for anybody else.

"Anthem" The album begins with one of Rush's best early riffs, a speedy ride that stops midair to bring in heavy chords and then Geddy Lee's rough, premature screeching vocals. Overall, this is a great piece and the harbinger of what Rush would accomplish in terms of hard-hitting rock "anthems."

"Best I Can" This is about as straight ahead as it gets in terms of rock music. It is riff-based and has a pop structure, complete with a guitar solo in the middle.

"Beneath, Between and Behind" Yet another heavy rock piece in the vein of Led Zeppelin, this song has a great melody and shows some of what newcomer Neil Peart was capable of.

"By-Tor and the Snowdog" The centerpiece of the album is a sign of what is to come during the remainder of the 1970s with respect to conceptual and progressive songwriting. Over instrumental growling and bass work that's all over the place, Alex Lifeson stretches out and makes use of his biting creativity on guitar. That new fellow also takes an opportunity to show off his chops during a few short drum solos. A menacingly quiet interlude follows, incorporating a snare drum, deep bass, and guitar swells, all leading into a final guitar solo.

"Fly by Night" The title track is a peppy one, and a radio favorite on many stations. It has a pleasing riff coupled by acoustic guitar that compliments the vocal melody quite well. The brief bridge is more pensive and makes for a masterful variation.

"Making Memories" This acoustic track is a decent song that features a slide guitar solo.

"Rivendell" Rush takes things to an even quieter level with this gentle piece consisting of classical guitar and a rare, sweet vocal performance. The piece does not develop at all, instead staying in classical guitar mode for its entire duration (rather than progressing into other styles and moods as a song like "The Trees" would).

"In the End" Further acoustic guitar, this time accompanied by bass, makes up the beginning of the final song. The band would be remiss if they didn't rock out once more though, and with a riff that is very similar to that of "Fly by Night," they're off with a moderately-paced rocker.