CLOCKWORK ANGELS

First...a disclaimer. Even though I would classify Rush as my favourite band, I am not a "fanboy". I have found most of their material post Signals to be average at best, and in many cases, not very good at all. I have kept listening and hoping for a return to form from the early era of Rush. Not of style mind you, because every band needs to evolve, but I needed to hear some evidence of the passion and nuance that went into those early Masterpieces, especially from 2112 through to Moving Pictures. There have been some good songs along the way, but never an album that captured that spirit...until now.

Clockwork Angels is an absolute gem. Rush have paid homage to themselves from the aforementioned era in large doses throughout this album, but that does not herald a throwback to the earlier style. The songwriting, lyrics, etc are evolved, mature and altogether fresh. From Caravan, which takes on a new life in the context of the concept album, through to the remarkable closer, The Garden, we can hear tremendous and memorable riffs, and Neil Peart's inimitable pace setting. Geddy Lee is unmistakable and in great form thoughout. Rush have employed some lush orchestration here, which is something new, and it adds a depth to the sound that is an indication of the evolution.

I won't say much about the concept of the album because others have done so before (and better than I could) but suffice it to say that it provides a unity and cohesiveness to the album that unquestionably improves it. Musically it is excellent in its own right, but add to the mix this thread that ties it all together and you have a masterpiece.

Forty years on and Rush still have the chops!