Lyricists: Geddy Lee; Alex Lifeson; Neil Peart. Personnel: Geddy Lee (vocals, guitar, keyboards); Alex Lifeson (guitar); Hugh Syme (keyboards); Neil Peart (drums, percussion). Recording information: Toronto Sound Studios, Toronto, Canada (1976 02). Photographers: G?rard Gentil; Yosh Inouye. Arrangers: Rush Brown; Rush; Terry Brown. 2112 is archetypal high-concept heavy/art-rock, featuring an interconnected suite of songs and a futuristic science fiction-inspired lyrical theme (courtesy of drummer/sole lyricist Neil Peart). When it came to '70s sci fi rock epics these guys were capable of giving Hawkwind and Jefferson Starship a run for their money. The first half of the album features "2112" proper, a series of interrelated tunes that paint a portrait of a 1984/Brave New World-style future, where music and emotion are outlawed. Ultimately, our hero discovers a guitar and uses it to fight the powers that be, all to the accompaniment of vaguely Led Zeppelin-derived heavy rock riffs and daunting time signatures. The final five tunes are unrelated to the concept piece but continue in a similar musical vein, though a little balladry is mixed in towards the end.

• Released: 5/6/1997
• Format: CD
• Genre: Pop