Great Rock Albums of the 70s: Rush- 2112

I didn’t know much about Rush until I joined the marines in 1979 where a couple of buddies there introduced me to them. It was an introduction that I have been forever grateful for, otherwise, I would never have heard some of the great music that Rush has treated us to for more than three decades, this album being one of them.

2112 has been listed as one of the albums you must listen to before you die. I have listened to it but that was such I long time ago that I think I need to listen to it again and definitely long before I die. I know several die hard Rush fans and a good percentage of them say that this was their greatest album. I’m not sure about that but it does definitely rank up there for me.

What I like about this album is the title track concept 2112. It’s a 20 minute long song which is broken down into several parts. It tells of a future where the planets are ruled by the Red Star of the Solar Federation and bey2112, the world is ruled by the priest of the Temple of Syrinx who dictate everything including music. A man discovers a guitar which gets destroyed and as a result, goes into hiding and ends up committing suicide. A planetary battle begins resulting in an ambiguous ending. However, it is a great case of rock music meeting science fiction and it’s a great listen as is the rest of the album.

Track Listing:

1. 2112

i. Overture

ii. Temple of Syrinx

iii. Presentation

iv. Discovery

v. Oracle: The Dreamer

vi. Sililoquy

vii. Grand Finale

2. Passage to Bankok

3. Twilight Zone

4. Lessons

5. Tears

6. Something for Nothing

Rush

Geddy Lee- bass, vocals, synthesiser

Alex Liefson- guitars

Neil Peart- drums, percussion

As far as concept albums go, this is one of the best. There are some great moments on 2112 and I can see why some call it their best.

Next Post: Rush- Farewell to Kings

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