2112

Their strongest album to this point in their career, best known for the 2112 suite, a true epic that is rightly called one of the first pieces of progressive metal. There are some absolutely outstanding sections in this piece, namely Lifeson's very memorable rhythm part in the verses of "Presentation", Lee's cathartic vocal performance on "Soliloquy", and just the serious attitude and energy they put into the whole piece, but the best things about it may be the story itself (written by Peart), one that is profound, timeless, and universal. All of the sections are connected seamlessly, and even when there is a pause in between tracks, it really feels like it should be there. (The original vinyl semi-indexed the parts of the suite.) The other side of the album is a masterpiece in and of itself, being comprised of five great rock songs of varying sub-genre, from the angular riffed "A Passage to Bangkok", the dark and stirring "Twilight Zone", the sprinting acoustic-electric "Lessons" (one of Lifeson's best songs), the emotionally devastating "Tears" (one of Lee's best songs), and the rolicking "Something For Nothing." Great songs, great performances, great production and mixing job on a very focused and artistically successful album. Recommended to all prog and heavy rock listeners, and well, all of society, for that matter.