CLOCKWORK ANGELS

Finally, after over a year since RUSH released their first singles "Caravan" & "BU2B" from their currently released album Clockwork Angels, we are privileged to be listening to the entire work and it was well worth the wait. In May, the anticipation for their 20th Studio album grew to a fever pitch with the release of its latest single "Headlong Flight" an ambitious 7 plus minute barrage showcasing the musicianship that the three piece Canadian band has been thrilling its fans with for over 38 years. Aggressive and possessing hints of an older classic "Bastille Day", the song was more than very well received and more importantly ignited the passion of once neglected older fans. However, speculation grew that perhaps we had already heard the best songs from the forthcoming album. This gladly would not be the case! The album has turned out to be a masterpiece of modern rock. It holds hints of the past while looking towards the future to the delight of many. Several tracks stick out as mini-Epics only to be complimented by the souring melodies, hard rocking and even progressive nature of many of the other tracks such as "The Wreckers" which was destined to be their next single. RUSH has truly broken new ground here as apparent in the title track and several other longer songs like "Seven Cities of Gold" & "The Garden" where a string section accompanies the boys in what can only be called pure genius. Even though it's hard to imagine them ever matching the brilliance of their 1980's effort Moving Pictures, this album comes close and more importantly it continues to grow on you with every listen. However, if by any chance you are so inclined to ask of it, "What do you lack?" The answer would be a resounding "Nothing"! Its jammed packed with intricate rhythms and time signatures, embellished by unexpected changes and vocal responses, not to mention Geddy Lee's first solo performance before an entire string section. Alex Lifeson's guitar solos have returned in earnest along with Neil's unmatchable prowess behind the skins. Clockwork Angels is a sixty-six plus minute Epic. It's a concept album dedicated to the concept of a naïve man's journey through a less than pleasant, yet generous and vivid world of steampunk and alchemy as he attempts to pursue his dreams. The story features lost cities, pirates, anarchists, an exotic carnival, and a rigid Watchmaker who imposes precision on every aspect of daily life. Lyrically, this is Neil Peart's finest moment and not surprisingly being turned into a novel by long time friend and collaborator Kevin J. Anderson. The novel is expected to be released prior to the tour in September. Rush's second endeavor with Grammy Award winner Nick Raskulinecz (Foo Fighters, Alice in Chains) who collaborated with the band on their highly praised 2007 studio album Snakes and Arrows, has proven once again, in superb form, that the collaboration between these two parties is a great one. This album is sonically clear and it's clearly their best effort since the early 80's. Consequently, it seems that someone has misinformed the member's of RUSH (Geddy Lee- Vocals & Bass, Alex Lifeson- Guitars and Neil Peart- Drums and Lyrics) that bands in their declining years should be producing music that is still inspiring, vigorous, emotional and most importantly relevant. Thank You "Booujzhe"! It's extremely evident, that perfecting their writing and performance skills over the past four decades has led directly to the achievement of their latest creation. "Clockwork Angels" is unquestionably, nothing less than a work of genius and "A Measure of a Life".

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