_hi_water._ ranks all 171 Rush songs... AGAIN

[_hi_water._]

My list so far:

171. “Virtuality” (Test for Echo (1996) - 1 of 11)
170. “Rivendell” (Fly by Night (1975) - 1 of 8)
169. “Crossroads” (Feedback (2004) - 1 of 8)
168. “Tai Shan” (Hold Your Fire (1987) - 1 of 10)
167. “For What It’s Worth” (Feedback (2004) - 2 of 8)
166. “The Way the Wind Blows” (Snakes & Arrows (2007) - 1 of 12)
165. “Need Some Love” (Rush (1974) - 1 of 8)
164. “Take a Friend” (Rush (1974) - 2 of 8)
163. “Seven and Seven Is” (Feedback (2004) - 3 of 8)
162. “Dog Years” (Test for Echo (1996) - 2 of 11)
161. “Face Up” (Roll the Bones (1991) - 1 of 10)
160. “Good News First” (Snakes & Arrows (2007) - 2 of 12)
159. “Bravest Face” (Snakes & Arrows (2007) - 3 of 12)
158. “You Bet Your Life” (Roll the Bones (1991) - 2 of 10)
157. “War Paint” (Presto (1989) - 1 of 11)
156. “Hand Over Fist” (Presto (1989) - 2 of 11)
155. “Anagram (for Mongo)” (Presto (1989) - 3 of 11)
154. “Second Nature” (Hold Your Fire (1987) - 2 of 10)
153. “Shapes of Things” (Feedback (2004) - 4 of 8)
152. “Peaceable Kingdom” (Vapor Trails (2002) - 1 of 13)
151. “Half the World” (Test for Echo (1996) - 3 of 11)
150. “In the Mood” (Rush (1974) - 3 of 8)
149. “The Stars Look Down” (Vapor Trails (2002) - 2 of 13)
148. “Mr. Soul” (Feedback (2004) - 5 of 8)
147. “Neurotica” (Roll the Bones (1991) - 3 of 10)
146. “Spindrift” (Snakes & Arrows (2007) - 4 of 12)
145. “I Think I’m Going Bald” (Caress of Steel (1975) - 1 of 5)
144. “Scars” (Presto (1989) - 4 of 11)
143. “The Seeker” (Feedback (2004) - 6 of 8)
142. “Double Agent” (Counterparts (1993) - 1 of 11)
141. “Time and Motion” (Test for Echo (1996) - 4 of 11)
140. “Limbo” (Test for Echo (1996) - 5 of 11)
139. “We Hold On” (Snakes & Arrows (2007) - 5 of 12)
138. “Here Again” (Rush (1974) - 4 of 8)
137. “Chain Lightning” (Presto (1989) - 5 of 11)
136. “High Water” (Hold Your Fire (1987) - 3 of 10)
135. “The Big Wheel” (Roll the Bones (1991) - 4 of 10)
134. “Out of the Cradle” (Vapor Trails (2002) - 3 of 13)
133. “Between Sun & Moon” (Counterparts (1993) - 2 of 11)
132. “Madrigal” (A Farewell to Kings (1977) - 1 of 6)
131. “Superconductor” (Presto (1989) - 6 of 11)
130. “Where’s My Thing?” (Roll the Bones (1991) - 5 of 10)
129. “Carnies” (Clockwork Angels (2012) - 1 of 11)
128. “Nocturne” (Vapor Trails (2002) - 4 of 13)
127. “Ceiling Unlimited” (Vapor Trails (2002) - 5 of 13)
126. “Lakeside Park” (Caress of Steel (1975) - 2 of 5)
125. “Carve Away the Stone” (Test for Echo (1996) - 6 of 11)
124. “Lock and Key” (Hold Your Fire (1987) - 4 of 10)
123. “Making Memories” (Fly by Night (1975) - 2 of 8)
122. “Heresy” (Roll the Bones (1991) - 6 of 10)
121. “Ghost Rider” (Vapor Trails (2002) - 6 of 13)
120. “Red Tide” (Presto (1989) - 7 of 11)
119. “Available Light” (Presto (1989) - 8 of 11)
118. “The Larger Bowl” (Snakes & Arrows (2007) - 6 of 12)
117. “BU2B2”/”Wish Them Well” (Clockwork Angels (2012) - 2 of 11)
116. “Lessons” (2112 (1976) - 1 of 6)
115. “Totem” (Test for Echo (1996) - 7 of 11)
114. “How It Is” (Vapor Trails (2002) - 7 of 13)
113. “Presto” (Presto (1989) - 9 of 11)
112. “Open Secrets” (Hold Your Fire (1987) - 5 of 10)
111. “Roll the Bones” (Roll the Bones (1991) - 7 of 10)
110. “The Main Monkey Business” (Snakes & Arrows (2007) - 7 of 12)
109. “Halo Effect” (Clockwork Angels (2012) - 3 of 11)
108. “The Speed of Love” (Counterparts (1993) - 3 of 11)
107. “Cut to the Chase” (Counterparts (1993) - 4 of 11)
106. “Secret Touch” (Vapor Trails (2002) - 8 of 13)
105. “Summertime Blues” (Feedback (2004) - 7 of 8)
104. “Cinderella Man” (A Farewell to Kings (1977) - 2 of 6)
103. “Best I Can” (Fly by Night (1975) - 3 of 8)
102. “Workin’ Them Angels” (Snakes & Arrows (2007) - 8 of 12)
101. “Stick It Out” (Counterparts (1993) - 5 of 11)
100. “The Fountain of Lamneth” (Caress of Steel (1975) - 3 of 5)
99. “Heart Full of Soul” (Feedback (2004) - 8 of 8)
98. “The Color of Right” (Test for Echo (1996) - 8 of 11)
97. “Turn the Page” (Hold Your Fire (1987) - 6 of 10)
96. “Seven Cities of Gold” (Clockwork Angels (2012) - 4 of 11)
95. “Chemistry” (Signals (1982) - 1 of 8)
94. “A Passage to Bangkok” (2112 (1976) - 2 of 6)
93. “Malignant Narcissism” (Snakes & Arrows (2007) - 9 of 12)
92. “Freeze” (Vapor Trails (2002) - 9 of 13)
91. “What You’re Doing” (Rush (1974) - 5 of 8)
90. “Finding My Way” (Rush (1974) - 6 of 8)
89. “Grand Designs” (Power Windows (1985) - 1 of 8)
88. “Emotion Detector” (Power Windows (1985) - 2 of 8)
87. “Alien Shore” (Counterparts (1993) - 6 of 11)
86. “Before and After” (Rush (1974) - 7 of 8)
85. “Anthem” (Fly by Night (1975) - 4 of 8)
84. “Digital Man” (Signals (1982) - 2 of 8)
83. “BU2B” (Clockwork Angels (2012) - 5 of 11)
82. “Clockwork Angels” (Clockwork Angels (2012) - 6 of 11)
81. “Tears” (2112 (1976) - 3 of 6)

[_hi_water._]

I think it's time to revisit which songs have been eliminated so far!

Rush (1974) - 7/8 used
"Finding My Way"

"Need Some Love"
"Take a Friend"

"Here Again"

"What You're Doing"

"In the Mood"

"Before and After"

 

Fly By Night (1975) - 4/8 used

"Anthem"

"Best I Can

"Making Memories"

"Rivendell"

 

Caress of Steel (1975) - 3/5 used

"I Think I'm Going Bald"
"Lakeside Park"

"The Fountain of Lamneth"

 

2112 (1976) - 3/6 used

"A Passage to Bangkok"

"Lessons"
"Tears"

 

A Farewell to Kings (1977) - 2/6 used
"Cinderella Man"

"Madrigal"

 

Hemispheres (1978) - 0/4 used

Permanent Waves (1980) - 0/6 used

Moving Pictures (1981) - 0/7 used

 

Signals (1982) - 2/8 used

"Chemistry"

"Digital Man"

 

Grace Under Pressure (1984) - 0/8 used

 

Power Windows (1985) - 2/8 used

"Grand Designs"

"Emotion Detector"

Hold Your Fire (1987) - 6/10 used

"Open Secrets"
"Second Nature"

"Lock and Key"

"Turn the Page"

"Tai Shan"

"High Water"

 

Presto (1989) - 9/11 used

"Chain Lightning"

"War Paint"
"Scars"

"Presto"
"Superconductor"

"Anagram (for Mongo)"
"Red Tide"
"Hand Over Fist"

"Available Light"

 

Roll the Bones (1991) - 7/10 used

"Roll the Bones"

"Face Up"

"Where's My Thing?"

"The Big Wheel"

"Heresy"

"Neurotica"

"You Bet Your Life"

Counterparts (1993) - 6/11 used
"Stick It Out"

"Cut to the Chase"

"Between Sun & Moon"

"Alien Shore"

"The Speed of Love"

"Double Agent"

 

Test for Echo (1996) - 8/11 used
"Half the World"

"The Color of Right"

"Time and Motion"
"Totem"

"Dog Years"

"Virtuality"

"Limbo"

"Carve Away the Stone"

 

Vapor Trails (2002/2013) - 9/13 used
"Ceiling Unlimited"

"Ghost Rider"

"Peaceable Kingdom"

"The Stars Look Down"

"How It Is"

"Secret Touch"
"Nocturne"

"Freeze"

"Out of the Cradle"

Feedback (2004) - 8/8 used
"Summertime Blues"

"Heart Full of Soul"
"For What It's Worth"
"The Seeker"

"Mr. Soul"
"Seven and Seven Is"

"Shapes of Things"

"Crossroads"

 

Snakes & Arrows (2007) - 9/12 used
"Workin' Them Angels"

"The Larger Bowl"
"Spindrift"

"The Main Monkey Business"
"The Way the Wind Blows"

"Bravest Face"

"Good News First"

"Malignant Narcissism"

"We Hold On"

 

Clockwork Angels (2012) - 6/11 used

"BU2B"

"Clockwork Angels"

"Carnies"

"Halo Effect"

"Seven Cities of Gold"

"BU2B2"/"Wish Them Well"

[_hi_water._]

TIER 7: Exciting and Fantastic Music All the Way

 

Time to post every song remaining until it is in the Top 50!

 

80. “Armor and Sword” (Snakes & Arrows (2007) - 10 of 12)
I may not be the biggest fan of Snakes & Arrows, but man, does this song get slept on. It's a thrilling mid-tempo track to follow the mighty opener, with so many fun progressive changes in musical structure throughout the track. And while I am not a big fan of the album's overall production, the mixing of Neil's drums and the blending of acoustics really does come to fruition - not to mention how it brings in some of the most cruelest lyrics Neil has given at this point. "No one gets to their heaven without a fight," and the lyrics around it are some of the best this period of Rush has to offer.

79. “Test for Echo” (Test for Echo (1996) - 9 of 11)
I may have dumped on this one earlier a few years back when I tried creating another list, but I've really warmed up to this one and considered a lot more than I ever thought. The metaphors of "test for echo" and "video vertigo" hold up so much stronger than I have given credit for. Don't also forget how this chugging and sludgy opener is quite a way to open up the album!

78. “Countdown” (Signals (1982) - 3 of 8)
A thrilling closer to Signals that also remains one of the best-produced tracks on there. I may not be the biggest 'space nerd' out there whatsoever, but I can also feel how exciting this song is, especially with all of the sound effects mixed in with the 

77. “Prime Mover” (Hold Your Fire (1987) - 7 of 10)
One of the best deep cuts from Hold Your Fire, having one of the most driving and up-tempo structures to be found on here. It has one of the best melodies on the album, with some fantastic layering of synthesizers and backing vocals from Aimee Mann. The existential themes surrounding the lyrics "The point of the journey / Is not to arrive / Anything can happen" are wonderful.

76. “The Necromancer” (Caress of Steel (1975) - 4 of 5)

Musically, this is one of the best tracks from this early period of Rush - all three parts are remarkably constructed. "Into the Darkness" is some fantastic exposition in terms of musical style, where it has some dark, menacing bends and a slow and progressive atmosphere. "Under the Shadow" is an absolute kickass middle part, where it features some of the most rhythmical and heavy music they've ever had - all of the instruments together sound reminiscent of "Heart of the Sunrise" by Yes, which is NOT a bad thing whatsoever. "Return of the Prince" closes out beautifully with some fantastic clean riffs and some outstanding soloing by Alex in the fading outro. However, the whole track definitely feels quite pinned for how ridiculous the story is. It definitely reads more like something close to Lord of the Rings' fanfiction, but it's the three guys inserting themselves into the story - "three travelers, men of Willowdale". And the hero at the end is Prince By-Tor, who was the bad guy in the previous song he was in - not sure if that's totally consistent with his story. Definitely feels like the track where they smoked the most on the album, and it gives a fun final result.

75. “Different Strings” (Permanent Waves (1980) - 1 of 6)
While this song is by no means the highlight of the album, it is surely a well-written track. The soft melodies produced by the guitar and piano, as well as the closing outros from the drums and guitar solos, lead to an excellent ballad. It's one of the rare tracks from this point in Rush that Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson are completely responsible for writing - and they've created a beautifully thematic track about relationships for Permanent Waves!

74. “Vapor Trail” (Vapor Trails (2002) - 10 of 13)
One of the more interestingly produced tracks from the album that uses a number of jams they've contained around this time, and they were able to put it all together for a wonderful, emotionally driven track. The melodic guitar with the spontaneous instrumentation is beautifully constructed and creates a dynamic song.

73. “Sweet Miracle” (Vapor Trails (2002) - 11 of 13)
I'm surprised that they didn't release this track as a single for this album - I think that it would've worked. It has a simple yet effective and melodic structure with a fantastic bridge. The rumbling bass and guitar-driven melody are highlights from this album, along with its emotionally written lyrics that repeat around "oh sweet miracle of life". An absolute highlight heard near the end of the album. 

 

 

(Also forget what I said at the top - I'm busy atm and will make sure to chunk out the remaining pieces of the list)

[grep]

as grey traces of dawn tinge the Michigan sky
the three travelers, men of somewhere
emerge from the forest shadow
fording the river dawn they turn south
journeying into the dark and forbidding lawn of the ORFromancer

Get off my f*n lawn!!!
 

RIP Orfie. You are missed.

Edited March 24 by grep
spelling

[grep]

4 minutes ago, grep said:

as grey traces of dawn tinge the Michigan sky
the three travelers, men of aomewhere
emerge from the forest shadow
fording the river dawn they turn south
journeying into the dark and forbidding lawn of the ORFromancer

Get off my f*n lawn!!!
 

RIP Orfie. You are missed.

This was mostly an in-joke between he and I that started way back in the CP board days.  

[_hi_water._]

Continuing TIER 7...

 

72. “Driven” (Test for Echo (1996) - 10 of 11)

A fantastic track that is effective at being very simple - a track from Test for Echo that actually had a great job in production. The main riffs in the electric and bass are very memorable in this period of Rush, creating a somewhat complex melody in time signature changes that is all mixed with fun instrumentation. There's so much energy that is put into the song that it can be felt every time listening to it - and NEVER forget that bass solo!

 

71. “Cold Fire” (Counterparts (1993) - 7 of 11)
This is stylistically one of the most outstanding tracks Rush has done in the latter half of their career - while it absolutely leans into their hard rock sensibilities a lot, there's definitely some other genre choices they try hitting here that combine in such a fantastic manner. It has one of the most 'fiery' riffs Lifeson contributes to the album, making for a helluva driving rhythm that is satisfying. The verse and chorus changes throughout the song really hold a strong narrative that is pushed forward - how did they not release this track as a single?

 

70. “Red Lenses” (Grace Under Pressure (1984) - 1 of 8)
I absolutely feel that the weakest GUP track should belong right around here. It may be the least substance-heavy track on the whole album by miles, but man, the construction of this track is something worth coming back to. Right from the intro, "I SEE RED", it can already be heard how rhythmically focused this track really is going to be. The verse/chorus interplays are so memorable and fun to listen to, and the instrumental breaks and changes throughout are thrilling. The funky bass lines, menacing synths, and chaotic percussion create a helluva blast to hear on Side 2 before punching with a fantastic closer.

69. “The Enemy Within” (Grace Under Pressure (1984) - 2 of 8)
As a song that is part of the "fear" series, it sure feels a little more lightweight compared to other tracks of heavier substance on the entire album (which feels somewhat ironic). A fun and fast-paced track to end Side 1, which is probably one of the more difficult vinyl sides to hear from this group. The aggressive reggae-style flows and passages that happen all throughout, especially after the verses and choruses, are all a blast.

68. “Manhattan Project” (Power Windows (1985) - 3 of 8)
A strangely peppy song considering the subject explored here - the 'big bomb' of WW2. The construction is very thrilling for sure, with it's roaring opening that clashes with percussive rhythms and synths that build up so beautifully. The progressive instrumentation with synthesizers and strings all throughout the choruses and towards the end of the track is wonderfully produced, leading to a strangely exciting track from Power Windows.

 

(WILL CONTINUE)

[grep]

I see red, it hurts my head,
I guess it must be something that I read
I see orange, red, 
a bumbling idiot bringing it all to a head,
couldn't we be living in another reality instead? 

It's about his signature on our money,
and the price he gets sharpies for, (IS IT TRUE?)
while we fight a useless war,
the stocks to sell,
the road to hell feels orange red

------------------------


 

Edited March 29 by grep

[_hi_water._]

I promise that I haven't forgotten about this thread...

[yyz305]

50 minutes ago, _hi_water._ said:

I promise that I haven't forgotten about this thread...

Good - I didn't think you would,  though...

[_hi_water._]

Continuing TIER 7...

 

67. “Dreamline” (Roll the Bones (1991) - 8 of 10)

One of the staple tracks from this period of Rush. A very energetic opening song from Roll the Bones that has similar and compressed structures that support a fantastic melody. The tempo really highlights how versatile and skillful Lifeson's playing truly is. It's definitely a hype opener track that doesn't lead into many other tracks on the album that really seem to complement it, but on its own, it's certainly a memorable one to keep coming back to. 

 

66. “Force Ten” (Hold Your Fire (1987) - 8 of 10)

Quite similar to some of the things that I've said about "Dreamline" previously, although there can be some key differences when analyzing the synth textures and structures involved. The opening and closing fills orchestrated by Peart are nothing short of awesome, not putting aside how his drumming builds up so much anticipation throughout the song. The tempo changes within the verses, choruses, and solos really emphasize the pure atmosphere portrayed around the wonderful melody: "Tough times demand tough talk."

 

65. “Fly By Night” (Fly by Night (1975) - 5 of 8)

A very straightforward hard rock song in terms of structure, and quite exemplary of the kinds of music they were playing against at the time. Lots of great energy amplified in this track through solos and in-your-face drums. Strongly melodic.

 

64. “Caravan” (Clockwork Angels (2012) - 7 of 11)

Track 1 on the very last album - a big whoosh of fire. Clockwork Angels thrusts itself open with a banger opener, starting with an intensely slow and progressive part with clean guitars and bell noises, and finally releases an absolute bomb. It compiles a lot of heavy bass and guitar that progressively leads into a highly atmospheric final part, playing along with strings and keyboards. "In a world where I feel so small / I can't stop thinking big".

 

63. “The Wreckers” (Clockwork Angels (2012) - 8 of 11)

A rare but one of the simpler and more melodic tracks on Clockwork Angels that brings emphasis to a highly melodic chorus. The progressions of strings alongside clean riffs that feel quite similar to those in more jangle-pop territory. After the intense "Seven Cities of Gold" starting in the second half of the album, this is quite a powerful tune leading into the climax of this concept album. "All I know is that sometimes you have to be wary / Of a miracle too good to be true / All I know is that sometimes the truth is contrary / Everything in life you thought you knew" - powerful track.

 

62. “The Analog Kid” (Signals (1982) - 4 of 8)

A high-energy song from Signals that contrasts with rapid guitar riffs and bass lines alongside very atmospheric synth parts in the choruses. Its metaphor of adolescence and adulthood with analog and digital is quite fun, and feels like a very important conceptual piece to the album. One of the most melodic tracks from the synth era of Rush.

 

61. “Ghost of a Chance” (Roll the Bones (1991) - 9 of 10)

A strongly underrated track that deserves more love than it gets. A rare ballad from Rush that is very melodic through a simplistic structure. It contains a well-reinforced riff and some wonderful guitar bits after the choruses that complete a very atmospheric track in Roll the Bones. I should also mention how the song's themes and message of "finding love" work very well in terms of the album's concept.

[_hi_water._]

Top 60 time.

Let's see the progress.

 

171. “Virtuality” (Test for Echo (1996) - 1 of 11)
170. “Rivendell” (Fly by Night (1975) - 1 of 8)
169. “Crossroads” (Feedback (2004) - 1 of 8)
168. “Tai Shan” (Hold Your Fire (1987) - 1 of 10)
167. “For What It’s Worth” (Feedback (2004) - 2 of 8)
166. “The Way the Wind Blows” (Snakes & Arrows (2007) - 1 of 12)
165. “Need Some Love” (Rush (1974) - 1 of 8)
164. “Take a Friend” (Rush (1974) - 2 of 8)
163. “Seven and Seven Is” (Feedback (2004) - 3 of 8)
162. “Dog Years” (Test for Echo (1996) - 2 of 11)
161. “Face Up” (Roll the Bones (1991) - 1 of 10)
160. “Good News First” (Snakes & Arrows (2007) - 2 of 12)
159. “Bravest Face” (Snakes & Arrows (2007) - 3 of 12)
158. “You Bet Your Life” (Roll the Bones (1991) - 2 of 10)
157. “War Paint” (Presto (1989) - 1 of 11)
156. “Hand Over Fist” (Presto (1989) - 2 of 11)
155. “Anagram (for Mongo)” (Presto (1989) - 3 of 11)
154. “Second Nature” (Hold Your Fire (1987) - 2 of 10)
153. “Shapes of Things” (Feedback (2004) - 4 of 8)
152. “Peaceable Kingdom” (Vapor Trails (2002) - 1 of 13)
151. “Half the World” (Test for Echo (1996) - 3 of 11)
150. “In the Mood” (Rush (1974) - 3 of 8)
149. “The Stars Look Down” (Vapor Trails (2002) - 2 of 13)
148. “Mr. Soul” (Feedback (2004) - 5 of 8)
147. “Neurotica” (Roll the Bones (1991) - 3 of 10)
146. “Spindrift” (Snakes & Arrows (2007) - 4 of 12)
145. “I Think I’m Going Bald” (Caress of Steel (1975) - 1 of 5)
144. “Scars” (Presto (1989) - 4 of 11)
143. “The Seeker” (Feedback (2004) - 6 of 8)
142. “Double Agent” (Counterparts (1993) - 1 of 11)
141. “Time and Motion” (Test for Echo (1996) - 4 of 11)
140. “Limbo” (Test for Echo (1996) - 5 of 11)
139. “We Hold On” (Snakes & Arrows (2007) - 5 of 12)
138. “Here Again” (Rush (1974) - 4 of 8)
137. “Chain Lightning” (Presto (1989) - 5 of 11)
136. “High Water” (Hold Your Fire (1987) - 3 of 10)
135. “The Big Wheel” (Roll the Bones (1991) - 4 of 10)
134. “Out of the Cradle” (Vapor Trails (2002) - 3 of 13)
133. “Between Sun & Moon” (Counterparts (1993) - 2 of 11)
132. “Madrigal” (A Farewell to Kings (1977) - 1 of 6)
131. “Superconductor” (Presto (1989) - 6 of 11)
130. “Where’s My Thing?” (Roll the Bones (1991) - 5 of 10)
129. “Carnies” (Clockwork Angels (2012) - 1 of 11)
128. “Nocturne” (Vapor Trails (2002) - 4 of 13)
127. “Ceiling Unlimited” (Vapor Trails (2002) - 5 of 13)
126. “Lakeside Park” (Caress of Steel (1975) - 2 of 5)
125. “Carve Away the Stone” (Test for Echo (1996) - 6 of 11)
124. “Lock and Key” (Hold Your Fire (1987) - 4 of 10)
123. “Making Memories” (Fly by Night (1975) - 2 of 8)
122. “Heresy” (Roll the Bones (1991) - 6 of 10)
121. “Ghost Rider” (Vapor Trails (2002) - 6 of 13)
120. “Red Tide” (Presto (1989) - 7 of 11)
119. “Available Light” (Presto (1989) - 8 of 11)
118. “The Larger Bowl” (Snakes & Arrows (2007) - 6 of 12)
117. “BU2B2”/”Wish Them Well” (Clockwork Angels (2012) - 2 of 11)
116. “Lessons” (2112 (1976) - 1 of 6)
115. “Totem” (Test for Echo (1996) - 7 of 11)
114. “How It Is” (Vapor Trails (2002) - 7 of 13)
113. “Presto” (Presto (1989) - 9 of 11)
112. “Open Secrets” (Hold Your Fire (1987) - 5 of 10)
111. “Roll the Bones” (Roll the Bones (1991) - 7 of 10)
110. “The Main Monkey Business” (Snakes & Arrows (2007) - 7 of 12)
109. “Halo Effect” (Clockwork Angels (2012) - 3 of 11)
108. “The Speed of Love” (Counterparts (1993) - 3 of 11)
107. “Cut to the Chase” (Counterparts (1993) - 4 of 11)
106. “Secret Touch” (Vapor Trails (2002) - 8 of 13)
105. “Summertime Blues” (Feedback (2004) - 7 of 8)
104. “Cinderella Man” (A Farewell to Kings (1977) - 2 of 6)
103. “Best I Can” (Fly by Night (1975) - 3 of 8)
102. “Workin’ Them Angels” (Snakes & Arrows (2007) - 8 of 12)
101. “Stick It Out” (Counterparts (1993) - 5 of 11)
100. “The Fountain of Lamneth” (Caress of Steel (1975) - 3 of 5)
99. “Heart Full of Soul” (Feedback (2004) - 8 of 8)
98. “The Color of Right” (Test for Echo (1996) - 8 of 11)
97. “Turn the Page” (Hold Your Fire (1987) - 6 of 10)
96. “Seven Cities of Gold” (Clockwork Angels (2012) - 4 of 11)
95. “Chemistry” (Signals (1982) - 1 of 8)
94. “A Passage to Bangkok” (2112 (1976) - 2 of 6)
93. “Malignant Narcissism” (Snakes & Arrows (2007) - 9 of 12)
92. “Freeze” (Vapor Trails (2002) - 9 of 13)
91. “What You’re Doing” (Rush (1974) - 5 of 8)
90. “Finding My Way” (Rush (1974) - 6 of 8)
89. “Grand Designs” (Power Windows (1985) - 1 of 8)
88. “Emotion Detector” (Power Windows (1985) - 2 of 8)
87. “Alien Shore” (Counterparts (1993) - 6 of 11)
86. “Before and After” (Rush (1974) - 7 of 8)
85. “Anthem” (Fly by Night (1975) - 4 of 8)
84. “Digital Man” (Signals (1982) - 2 of 8)
83. “BU2B” (Clockwork Angels (2012) - 5 of 11)
82. “Clockwork Angels” (Clockwork Angels (2012) - 6 of 11)
81. “Tears” (2112 (1976) - 3 of 6)
80. “Armor and Sword” (Snakes & Arrows (2007) - 10 of 12)
79. “Test for Echo” (Test for Echo (1996) - 9 of 11)
78. “Countdown” (Signals (1982) - 3 of 8)
77. “Prime Mover” (Hold Your Fire (1987) - 7 of 10)
76. “The Necromancer” (Caress of Steel (1975) - 4 of 5)
75. “Different Strings” (Permanent Waves (1980) - 1 of 6)
74. “Vapor Trail” (Vapor Trails (2002) - 10 of 13)
73. “Sweet Miracle” (Vapor Trails (2002) - 11 of 13)
72. “Driven” (Test for Echo (1996) - 10 of 11)
71. “Cold Fire” (Counterparts (1993) - 7 of 11)
70. “Red Lenses” (Grace Under Pressure (1984) - 1 of 8)
69. “The Enemy Within” (Grace Under Pressure (1984) - 2 of 8)
68. “Manhattan Project” (Power Windows (1985) - 3 of 8)
67. “Dreamline” (Roll the Bones (1991) - 8 of 10)
66. “Force Ten” (Hold Your Fire (1987) - 8 of 10)
65. “Fly By Night” (Fly by Night (1975) - 5 of 8)
64. “Caravan” (Clockwork Angels (2012) - 7 of 11)
63. “The Wreckers” (Clockwork Angels (2012) - 8 of 11)
62. “The Analog Kid” (Signals (1982) - 4 of 8)
61. “Ghost of a Chance” (Roll the Bones (1991) - 9 of 10)

[grep]

He's got a sister out in Vegas,
Wondering why Dreamline and Analog aren't higher on the list 

:)

[_hi_water._]

Oh lord it's been a month since I've posted here.

 

Alright I have one more really busy week and then I can present the rest.

 

YEEE

[James Bond]

I have been patiently awaiting a return to this saga.

[_hi_water._]

Sorry for the long wait!

 

I am here to return with posting the list

[_hi_water._]

And finally... the last ten tracks before the Top 50. ENDING TIER 7!!!

 

 

60. “Circumstances” (Hemispheres (1978) - 1 of 4)
One of the earliest songs of a lyrical theme Peart loved to write about: the harsh realities of taking chances and following your dreams. It's got a strangely fun riff running along a strange chorus with French. I personally think the coolest part in this song has to be the bridge that takes up a good part of the track - the keyboards and chord progressions really hold up the track's melody.

59. “The Twilight Zone” (2112 (1976) - 4 of 6)
One of the more ballsy tracks they released on this album. It's a clear focus on two episodes from 'The Twilight Zone' TV show, and they managed to make a bizarrely fun tune. The hook is very memorable from this album, leading into one of the best atmospheres they could've mustered up. The guitars creep along the main melody with the vocals that give the song so much character - great stuff.

58. “One Little Victory” (Vapor Trails (2002) - 12 of 13)
Right from the get-go, Rush came back after a break with fiery emotions. Not only does this kickass opening song set the tone for what’s to come throughout this album, but it’s easily one of the better constructed tracks in their late career. A blowout of thrashing drums and basslines with some fantastic melodies.

57. “Afterimage” (Grace Under Pressure (1984) - 3 of 8)
One of the darker and more emotive tracks on Grace Under Pressure - one of the few songs where Rush deals with the grieving of death. It doesn’t go into too much detail, but it simply does not have to. It has so much to say in just a few verses, along with some of the most beautiful synth lines and Lifeson riffs in this era.

56. “Territories” (Power Windows (1985) - 4 of 8)
Easily one of the tracks in this era of Rush that becomes more and more relevant to this very day, delivering powerful messages about why geopolitical ideologies suck. It may not be the most punchy track musically on this album, but it works great with the themes of the track - the progressions near the end should be praised, though.

55. “The Weapon” (Signals (1982) - 5 of 8)
This song may contain some of the most complex drum fills and parts that Peart has ever constructed - seriously, watch videos of people trying to cover this! It absolutely carries the fear theme of the song, along with the brilliant progressive solos and synths in the middle of the track.

54. “Entre Nous” (Permanent Waves (1980) - 2 of 6)
One of the first instances of Rush exploring the meaningfulness of human relationships, and it is quite effective and powerful. It may not be the most standout instrumental track on the album, but everything is brought together to bring a well-delivered and memorable deep cut.

53. “Nobody’s Hero” (Counterparts (1993) - 8 of 11)
A very bold rock song from the 1990s that deserves more attention from what it has delivered. At this point in Rush, there have been a few instances of Peart writing about his experiences with fans and parasocial relationships, but this one isn’t just directly focusing on that, but instead of ordinary people who may be doing more heroic or brave things than he could. By and far what is one of the boldest topics they’ve ever done is come out with acceptance with the LGBTQ+ community, particularly in the early ‘90s where AIDS was a huge concern of both neglect and scapegoating, and general American society was not nearly close to being halfway there of acceptance. The overall delivery of this track with the progressing solos and string instruments to the end make this one of the most poignant songs they’ve had.

52. “Everyday Glory” (Counterparts (1993) - 9 of 11)
Speaking of beautiful and poignant songs, especially on Counterparts, is the closer track. One of the best produced songs on the album, with all of the guitar parts, vocals, and percussion bringing out a powerful delivery. The ending verses are especially potent - “If the future's looking dark/We're the ones who have to shine/If there's no one in control/We're the ones who draw the line/Though we live in trying times/We're the ones who have to try/Though we know that time has wings/We're the ones who have to fly”.

51. “Kid Gloves” (Grace Under Pressure (1984) - 4 of 8)
Easily one of Lifeson’s best moments in the synth era of Rush. So many great riffs moving along with changing time signatures and amazing synthesizers. Lots of fun hooks, drum fills, and soloing happen throughout a track that may have a much better lyrical message than most people may suggest.

[Mithrandir]

Dog Years is in my top 15 favorite Rush songs.  Best groove in any Rush song.  Silly lyrics about dogs...

 

Cut to the Chase is top 10 Rush song for me

 

Edited June 7 by Mithrandir

[grep]

We are islands to each other, hoping to share better beers while some random assholes get all pissy about the color of their particular rags and decide to start killing each other over them. 

[_hi_water._]

TIER 8: The Truly Elite.

 

I hate leaving this thread on silent, but I'll make sure to post at least a few if I can.

 

 

50. “The Anarchist” (Clockwork Angels (2012) - 9 of 11)

Some of the best songwriting this album has yet to offer, delivering a whole punch of various Lifeson riffs that hit so hard every time listening. The hooks, the arrangements, and the production all work well for this track. One of the best conceptual ideas in this album, leaving me with lots of extra psychological thinking. One of the heaviest and proggiest tracks from later Rush for sure.

 

49. “Middletown Dreams” (Power Windows (1985) - 5 of 8)

By and far one of the most underappreciated tracks of this era. The main synth and vocal melodies are quite fun, alongside some of Lifeson's most underrated work on the album, particularly with the solos. I love how the song progresses to a high point, leaving more and more wondrous thoughts of imagination. As someone living in a somewhat-ish rural place, this song hits just too close to home for me.