Rush by Rush

The lineup already included Geddy Lee (who had replaced founding member Jeff Jones) and Alex Lifeson, but Rush began their recording career with John Rutsey on drums (this is the only album with Rutsey in the lineup) and a hard rock/blues sound influenced by the great bands of the time, which in the previous years had influenced many bands, such as Led Zeppelin (who had already released their fifth studio album) and Cream (who had already released their albums).

The lyrics were written by Geddy Lee after John Rutsey's first draft, who, dissatisfied with the initial result, entrusted them to him. Rush didn't yet have a recording contract at the time, so this album was released by Moon Records (a label created by the band's staff, pictured), with only a few thousand copies sold.

The album consists of eight songs, each lasting approximately 2 to 7 minutes, for a total of approximately 40 minutes.

"Finding My Way," a powerful and compelling song with a great guitar riff and a beautiful vocal performance.
"Best I Can," a melodic, classic rock song, is already a fine example of how this band could adapt to different moods.
"In the End," a song that combines slowness with power, is beautiful, and features another beautiful vocal performance.
"Fancy Dancer," a lighter, well-crafted rock song.
"Here Again," an acoustic ballad, is moving.
"Working Man" is one of the album's standout tracks, representing Rush's early sound. Lifeson's powerful riff is beautiful, and Lee's voice is superb.
"Before and After," a beautiful and complex song on the album.
"What You're Doing" closes the album, very compelling and full of emotion.

My favorite songs are "Finding My Way," "In the Mood," and "Working Man."

A good start, as I said, powerful, blues-influenced hard rock performed beautifully, a preview of the great things this band will do.

Rutsey left Rush early, due to stylistic differences but also health issues, and the genius of Neil Peart arrived, with his stratospheric technique and beautiful lyrics. This album therefore has historic value; it may not fully represent the band, but it's a must-have for your collection if you love Rush like I do.

Tracks
1. Finding My Way (5:05)
2. Need Some Love (2:19)
3. Take a Friend (4:24)
4. Here Again (7:34)
5. What You're Doing (4:22)
6. In the Mood (3:33)
7. Before and After (5:34)
8. Working Man (7:10)
Running Time: 40:01

The Lineup
- Geddy Lee - bass, classical guitar, lead vocals
- Alex Lifeson - acoustic and electric guitar, backing vocals
- John Rutsey - drums, percussion, backing vocals