FLY BY NIGHT

From the second that "Anthem's" ballsy introduction starts shaking your speakers you'll know you're in for some serious rockin'. "Fly By Night" really showcases the improving musicianship of both Alex and Geddy, but is even more famous for the arrival of Neil Peart, whose lyrical smarts are evident when comparing the themes of this album's songs with the band's debut. Taken as a whole, "FBN" is smarter, more intense, and more consistant than any of Rush's early albums, while at the same time offering more variety in the songs. Peart's precise drumming really tightens up the group as well, bringing them to the next level of playing.

As for specific songs, "Anthem" throws down a gauntlet that is hard to match, but "By- Tor..." comes close. "Beneath, Between, and Behind" is easily one of the wittiest jabs at American history and culture I've ever heard (and boasts a great melody), especially when compared to the overt explicitness of Ameri-bashing coming from some European bands these days. "Rivendell" sets my Tolkien-loving heart aflame each time I hear it-- and remains the only real quite song the band has ever recorded.

"In the End" is an artsy close to a great album, start to finish. Solid.

Songwriting: 3 Instrumental Performances: 4 Lyrics/Vocals: 3 Style/Emotion/Replay: 4