A FAREWELL TO KINGS

After the success of the previous record (2112), Rush was finally able to breathe. They no longer had the record company on their backs anymore. They finally were able to do what they wanted without hearing it from their label. What did they end up recording after 2112? Well, one of their most beloved and influential albums, 1977's A Farewell to Kings. Prior to the release of this record some prog fans were still not really on board with Rush (even with the release of 2112). They were not really on board because they were not super complex or proggy. Prog to me is very subjective, but that's me digressing and rambling on a different topic. Also, let's face it people, prog fans can be pretty snobby. Anyway, this all changed with A Farewell to Kings. Not only did that change, the band also changed. They changed and matured before our eyes as they started using instruments that they previously never used (such as the wind chimes, tubular bells, synthesizers, etc). They were now exploring what they had potential with to begin with but did not have the means to do so (I don't know if that made sense). Starting with A Farewell to Kings, Rush's music grew exponentially and became more expansive. On to the actual review of the album right?? Let's get this going!!

1) A Farewell to Kings - Just like on 2112, the title track opens up the record. This one is very different though as it begins with Alex playing some acoustics. It is soon followed by some lush percussives and synthesizers (just listen to that interplay, oh my...) before becoming a loud rocker. It is quite a feat and I absolutely love it. I love how it ends. It ends with Geddy singing the following lyrics "Can't we find the minds to lead us, closer to the heart (clearly referencing another track off the album). A very dynamic opener to this album. Fantastic track. 10/10

2) Xanadu - This one is hands down one of my all time favorite tracks ever. Not just in Prog but in music altogether. Its build is unlike anything I have heard (even King Crimson's intro to Larks' Tongues in Aspic doesn't match it for me). It is an amazing song. You just have to listen to it to understand what I am talking about. Listen to it now if you haven't already done so. 10/10

3) Closer to the Heart - A big hit for the band and absolute classic. It is also one of the band's best songs. I know it has been played over and over again but it still has the same power that it did when it first came out. I love everything about it. 10/10

4) Cinderella Man - This is Rush in full effect and with their foot on the gas pedal. It has the band's signature written all over it. A simple yet very complex song. I especially love the instrumental playing. Musically, a fiery track. 10/10

5) Madrigal - To some this is the low point of the album. Not to me though. I see it as the calm before the storm (I am of course talking about the following track and one that we will be talking about next!). It's a very unique track in the Rush discography as nothing sounds quite like it. 10/10

6) Cygnus X-1 - Wow! This one! What a way to end the album. I don't have much to say about it. It makes the hair on the back of my neck stand up! This track has given me the goosebumps on more than a few occasions. If the hairs on the back of your neck didn't or don't stand up you are simply not a human being! This is my absolute favorite ending to any album ever (that's saying something). Perfect. 10/10

Overall, I think that this album is an absolute masterpiece. About as perfect as a band can get. If I could give it a higher rating I would but I can't. 5 stars easily!! Peace out!!