When I first listened to this album, all my Rush-fan friends told me I had made a big mistake in starting my Rush-listening career with the best one. Every song, they said, is pure gold. "I know", I said. "I heard it." They shook their heads, a smile on their faces. "No, you listened to it, you played it; but you haven't heard it." I was confused, so I went back home and put the record on the turntable. Then, I sat between the two speakers and really tried to pay attention to it. The first time, I must have been distracted or something, because the second time made a switch flip on in my head. I actually heard it. I suppose I hadn't heard it the first time because I wasn't paying attention to the lyrics.
Besides the uniqueness of it all, I'd never heard a style like that before, with as much prowess on drums that Neil Peart brings to the table.
This album opens with one single blast that brings you to another universe with its outer-space feel. You're immediately thrown from wherever you once were to a place you've never been. Only once the first song ends do you remember where you are. A few seconds later, a more peaceful vibe lulls you in, and you're gone again, gone on a voyage on a red Barchetta. The mild tranquility only lasts for so long, however, because what's next is a story told by drums and guitars. The flavors of YYZ are as contrasting, yet as perfectly melded as a well-executed meal. It serves as a bridge between two songs, with an adventure of its own to deliver. Side one ends on a high note with Limelight, the tale of fame in its most infamous form.
Side two is a different thing altogether. If played at the right volume, it feels like you're being brought on a voyage through space and time, to a be an other-wordly observer of Earth. (I know I sound like I'm talking out of my ass, but if you listen to it, you'll see what I mean) And it just gets better from there.
I really like albums that can take you on a journey like this. It shows a remarkable ability as a musician. Not only that, but this album isn't even considered a 'concept' album, yet it brings you through parts of your mind you never thought you'd visit.
Every song on this album is on someone's favorite song list somewhere, that I guarantee, but if I had to pick my favorite, I would go with Limelight. I could explain in some sort of deep way that it's brilliant in it's own way, which it is, but that's not why it's my favorite. I like it so much because it's honest. Not in just the way of being a musician coping with fame, but in all of our lives. Whenever I'm with people, I see the lyrics being acted out, and not subconsciously, either. People are fully aware that they're hiding from their true selves and are playing roles of who they think everyone wants them to be. I've been saying this for years, and now that I've found Geddy Lee said it first, I can just call people out with the power of Rush.
That's what Rush is, well, this album at least; they're a power, unknown of its ability until you give it a try.
Snootchins,
~Kat
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