Over the years Rush has slowly evolved musically and lyrically. The height of their mainstream success came with their “Moving Pictures” album, which they played in its entirety in concert on their last tour. Instead of taking the safe route to eternal commercial bliss, Rush continues to challenge their fans with albums like their latest, “Clockwork Angels.”
It is an album in the truest sense of the word, each song contributes to the story if you take the time to digest the lyrics, which after a couple of listens is a daunting if not impossible task. For our purposes we will assume that the story is cohesive and filled with social commentary, and instead approach the albums musical quality.
Sonically, “Clockwork” is an amazing album. Great care was taken to create a great mix. If you listen to “Carnies,” Geddy Lee’s vocals blend with the song instead of overpowering it, Pearts drums come right through the center and Alex Lifeson’s guitar drives the song. In the background are various well placed accents.
The album is filled with musical highlights and even a few sounds that sound vaguely familiar. In comparison to Rush’s legendary early work, “Clockwork,” in many ways sounds more like the power trio Rush of the late 70s than the synthesizer laden act of the late 80s. Songs like the title track and “Caravan,” just plain rock.
The major thing that makes “Clockwork Angels” work is that it does not sound dated. If you played it in your car for someone not overly familiar with the band, it may take them awhile to figure out it is Rush. That is a high compliment to a band that deserves more recognition. “Rock and Roll Hall of Fame recognition!”
