I have a lot of nostalgia around Rush.
This is the newest Rush I’ve listened, to, though. This is music that my dad introduced me to, and he certainly influenced a lot of my early music tastes.
Song Notes
- “Animate” - Not a sound I typically associate with Rush, but then the chord progression hits in and then Geddy Lee starts up, and we get familiar. Playing chords on the bass is always neat!
- “Stick It Out” - This is even more what I was expecting. It’s heavier than I’m used to hearing from them, but the chords and rhythms are more in line with thier style. The discordant chores are very cool here.
- “Cut to the Chase” - Sick solo!
- “Nobody’s Hero” - Okay, go off about gay rights. Mourning the loss of a friend due to AIDS, and mourning the loss of a family friend, raising awareness. It feels maybe a little clunky, but I get it. It’s very personal, and I get wanting to share.
- “Alien Shore” - The broader understanding and discussion of gender has definitely come a long way since then, but I do appreciate the clear planting a clear flag in the ground of acceptance and trying to understand other people.
- “Double Agent” - Yo, this one rules. I think this is my favorite so far.
- “Leave That Thing Alone” - I like this instrumental. I think I just inherently trust Rush’s instrumentals, especially given YYZ.
General Thoughts
- Despite really liking Rush, I’m completely unfamiliar with this album. I might remember a thing or two from going to their Time Machine Tour.
- I love these nerds. I’m glad that even though Neil Peart is gone, I’m gonna get to see them again.
- Their songs that involve activism are a little blunt, but I in 2004, I think the bluntness is extra appreciated, especially in retrospect.
- The lyrics are corny, but the music behind them is damn solid.