2112

Rush were trying to become a progressive band. After Caress of Steel, which I found worked out quite nicely (but I'm in the minority, I believe). They came out with this great album: a cross between an epic masterpiece and a really, really fun beginner's prog album. It isn't quite a concept album, since the second side is unrelated to the first. The musicianship is note-worthy - Geddy is very likely the greatest rock bassist (in terms of technical skill), Alex a mildly unappreciated guitarist, and Neil, of course, is recognized by many as the greatest drummer in the world. Some complain that his drumming is stiff and robotic, with no feel or creative spontaneity, which may be true to an extent. But in the end, it's undeniable that was, and still is, phenomenal and raising the energy of a song, and his drumming fits this music perfectly.

This album is fantastic. Some weaker songs are on the second half, and grow repetitive and dry. Though still fun, most of the second side isn't weighed by much meaningfulness. The first side, however, is a dramatic tale of a futuristic society. A man (or boy [or I suppose it could even be a woman...]) ultimately commits suicide because of the restraints of his life governed by the Priests of the Temples of Syrinx. What a great rebellious album! There is lots of emotion and adrenaline driving instrumental sections (crazy drumming in the Grand Finale!) and the complexity of the writing, and the dynamic changes, have always be en some of the greater aspects of Rush's music. It is the perfect starter prog album, which isn't surprising, after all, this was one of Rush's first prog albums.