VAPOR TRAILS

I'm 33, and have been listening to Rush since 1977. I didn't even buy this album until a few days ago, because I couldn't stand Test For Echo and CounterParts - they just didn't grab me. I remember being in college philosophy and turning in an essay with Cygnus X-1 Book II as reference notes.

Having listened to this a few times now, I can definitely say two things: 1) HELL YES!!!!! 2) Thank God!!!

This is by far one of the best albums of all time. If a new band came out with an album like this, they would be instantly famous. The only reason this album might be nothing less than one of the greatest rock albums in the last 15 years is the minor production flaw (use your EQ to crank down the top level just a bit, and turn up the volume!)

The fact that I can now appreciate the less-than-stellar 90's - good riddance! - is fantastic!

Image this being the TRUE Rush debut album - with NEIL on DRUMS! And a RED cover, not PINK! As IT was INTENDED!

One Little Victory - I don't think so! This is a MAJOR victory, with a massive Post-Party! And we're all invited!

Geddy goes massively nuts on bass in at least one spot in every song. It's hard to hear his flawless, speed-jamming until you really delve deep into each song. To do that you have to get past Alex's WICKED guitars! Holy crap! If Alex never touched another keyboard it wouldn't be too soon. His delicate digits definitely delight!

And without Neil, where are we? Lost at sea, on a journey through time, trying to find our way, and observing the passing stages? I believe so.

Cheers to Neil! Down with the Federation! The Cask of '43 is open again, and the lost music has been found again!