RUSH

Rush, raw and rocking. While the band's self-titled debut album sounds like a mishmash of some of their biggest influences (The Who, Cream, and Led Zeppelin), the end result sounds closer to a synthesis of Kiss' classic 1974 debut and the early pre-synth Black Sabbath with a fast and furious 70's blues-rock style that compensated with energy and passion what it lacked in distinction. Standout stompers are "Finding My Way", What You're Doing", "In The Mood", and "Working Man", the blue collar anthem that first got them recognition via considerable airplay.

Drummer John Rutsey does an admirable job on his first and last Rush release despite indifference and illness. Guitarist Alex Lifeson's hot licks and riffs is the reason this album (and Rush) is not just simply a clone of the aforementioned bands as critics of the band's style have claimed. Geddy Lee's booming bass not only contributes significant rhythmic propulsion but also lays a rock solid foundation for Lifeson as well.

I rate this album no higher than two stars because, as fun as it may be, much of it sounds same-y over the long haul. Then there's the typically cliched but seemingly sincere '70's hard-rock lyrics and songwriting, and the love it or loathe it Robert Plant at 78 RPM voice of Geddy Lee.

Note: I try not to mistake opinions for facts. Reality is perception, hence personal taste is very subjective.