Rush - Clockwork Angels (Roadrunner Records) ****1/2

"Clockwork Angels" was not as easy album to get into as was their previous "Snakes & Arrows," and on the contrary why make the same album twice? Here we have Rush getting little bit more ambitious, and once again tackling a concept idea behind the music. They certainly didn't have to do this so late in their career. With their reputation well established, they could've easily stick to being a live draw, but this is Rush!

The album offers a deeper and darker music from Rush, the band utilizes their classic sound, but certainly is moving forward direction wise. Once again, Rush used Nick Raskulinecz as a producer, and it's an uncompromised growth for both parties. It's great to see the guitar taking the center stage once again, and Alex Lifeson really plays hard here. Instrumentally, can this band get any better? Three very talented players doing their thing.

Some may call it a progressive rock, but Rush always worked hard on developing their own brand of rock 'n' roll. They have their style, and sound, and there is not a band out there that sounds like them. "Clockwork Angels" displays all of these aspects, and take the listener on a rollercoaster journey. The music is heavy, melodic, but at the same time very demanding. And let's not forget the usually deep lyrics from Neil Peart.

"Clockwork Angels" is a state of the art heavy rock album. It has class, but plenty of punch as well. This is Rush at its absolute best!

Mark Kadzielawa