Rush

A Farewell To Kings

A little too unfocused and 'screechy' for my liking

Review Score:

(6/10)
I guess instrumentally Rush was at a peak during this point in their career, but in my humble opinion this coincided with a songwriting low. Also, the aspect of the band that initially turned me off to them is at its' most grating here - Geddy Lee's vocal screech is at its' worst during a couple of the songs, particularly the closing epic "Cygnus X-1", which is quite possibly the most reviled song in their catalog for me with the possible exception of "The Big Wheel" from 'Roll The Bones', as none of the technical riffs seem to flow together at all, it's horribly dated lyrically, and that screech - ick. The title track doesn't do much for me either, as it's melodically pretty weak with an awful guitar solo, "Madrigal" is too sappy and insignificant of a ballad, and "Cinderella Man", despite good acoustic and electric guitar work, is pretty much a mere throwaway. That leaves the remaining two songs that thankfully save the album from disaster in the 11 minute epic "Xanadu", which boasts a wondefully ambient instrumental buildup, great furious riffs, a good amount of drama and excitement, and nice virtuosity. The hit single "Closer To The Heart" is rather nice too - very melodic and strong lyrically, although it's not quite as substantial as most Rush singles. Not one of Rush's better works, but still not bad.

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