RUSH

This is a high-energy, simple debut that does not even hint at what Rush would do down the road. The band pays obvious homage to their heroes The Who, Cream, and Zeppelin with this firmly blues-based hard rock. It may not be progressive, but it's rather enjoyable. Lee and Lifeson are already displaying some impressive chops, and Rutsey's no slouch; he just has the incredible misfortune of being the guy who warmed the seat for Neil Peart.

Lyrically, this album shows why Geddy and Alex let neil do all the writing once he joined. The only track with any good lyrics at all is "Working Man," a bona fide Rush classic that usually makes an appearance at live shows. "Finding My Way" and "In the Mood" are equally enjoyable, but their lyrics are like those on teh rest of the album. "Here Again" is some of the heaviest stuff you'll hear, especially for that time period, when only Sabbath had heavier licks.

Overall, this is a strong debut musically. The lyrics, however, are bland at best (with teh exception of Working Man). From this stage, nobody could have guessed that when Rutsey left, his unknown replacement would drastically alter the band's path.

Grade: C