Rush

A Farewell To Kings

NO FAREWELL TO THESE KINGS!

Review Score:

(10/10)
Rush entered a more complex writing phase on this album. It starts off with the title track which is a progressive hard rocker. It starts of with classical guitar. It changes tempo quite a few times. It also has thought-provoking lyrics of a Jethro Tull nature. "Xanadu", was my first favorite Rush extended piece and still remains so. It features poetic lyrics and dare I say it...romantic musicianship featuring chimes ( I think!), synths and Alex Lifesons guitar producing a synth-like effect. Great song at 11 minutes. "Closer To The Heart", the radio favorite featuring complex guitar work. "Cinderella Man", is written by Geddy Lee. It has sougt of a groove to it. "Madrigal", is a slow, absorbing piece that prepares you for the insane rollercoaster known as "Cygnus X-1". This song has to be heard to be believed. Insane musicianship, Insane and abrupt tempo and time changes. If you want to hear Neil Peart at his most complex and mad, you have to hear this epic. It's pieces like these that have earned Rush the respect of many fans and musicians alike. Geddy Lee has even upped the ante on his vocals at the end of the epic. Yikes!, but it's worth it.

To me this is a more evolved "Caress Of Steel", because it has that victorian feel to it. A great album, not to be missed.

More Reviews: