COUNTERPARTS

1993 saw the release of Counterparts. In the writing for this album, the band made an effort to forge more powerful-sounding songs, and they specifically cited Primus and Pearl Jam as influences. Those alt-rock inspirations are evident from the get-go. Keys are once more diminished on this album. "Animate" opens the album on a strong note, and that's followed by the standout "Stick It Out", which topped Billboard's Mainstream Rock charts upon its release. It blends the grittiness of grunge and alt-rock with the compositional complexity of progressive rock, and it's carried on the back of a strong melody. "Cut to the Chase" features a great guitar solo, and "Between Sun and Moon" mixes alt-rock with strong pop sensibilities.

Counterparts does sag a bit in the middle. "Alien Shore" and "The Speed of Love" are both too long and short on ideas. "Double Agent", though, is a weird, engaging piece that utilizes some sinister-sounding narration to great effect. The instrumental "Leave That Thing Alone" earned Rush another Grammy nomination, though they lost to Pink Floyd's "Marooned". "Leave That Thing Alone" is a return to form for Rush. It's filled with tight, complex riffs and varied textures. It's another brilliant synthesis of alt rock and prog rock.

Review originally posted here: theeliteextremophile.com/2020/04/27/deep-dive-rush/