Rush are one of my all-time favorite bands. They music as been a soundtrack to many of long music listening sessions and video game sessions. Their music is also just great, with many of their albums being some of my favorites. That's why I've decided, today, to embark on a journey through their discography, with their 1974 self-titled debut being my first destination. Let's begin this journey shall we?

First off, this album is not the Rush we know and love. This album does not contain sprawling stories about trees, Xanadu, or Ayn Rand, it also doesn't have future drummer and main lyricist Neil Peart doing is thing, but is a straight forward rock album, in the vain of Led Zeppelin, Deep Purple, and many other British rock bands. This sound is very prevalent from the start with "Finding My Way", which showcases some very Zeppelin like vocals by Geddy Lee and is one of my favorites off the album. Other Tracks like "What Your're Doing" and "Before and After" are other examples of this Zeppelin worship. The only track that breaks away slightly from this Zeppelin worship formula is the classic "Working Man". This track showcases some impressive instrumentation from the band, with Alex Lifeson playing some nice guitar solos and riffs throughout. Geddy Lee's vocals also sound great and the late John Rutsey does a solid job behind the kit. This album overall showcases some fantastic instrumentals, which separated them from the average Zeppelin worship band. My favorite instrumental performances/songs on this album are "Finding My Way", "Here Again" and "Before and After".Sadly, some of the songs on this album are pretty mediocre, which gives this album a so-so feel. The tracks "In the Mood" and "Take a Friend" are in my opinion the worst tracks on the album, with "In the Mood" having some really cheesy lyrics. Geddy Lee's vocals are solid, which makes these two tracks a lot easier to get through.

Overall, Rush's debut is a solid debut effort that showcases some fine guitar playing by Alex Lifeson, good vocals and bass by Geddy Lee, and some solid drumming by John Rutsey. This album is definitely not one of Rush's best, but is more of a appetizer to whats to come with their next album "Fly By Night", which I will review soon. I give this album an 7.8/10.

Favorite Tracks: Finding My Way,Here Again, Before and After, and Working Man

Least Favorite: Take A Friend and In the Mood

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