"Rush" is the self-titled debut studio album by Canadian rock band Rush, released in March 1974. The album was primarily recorded in two days in Toronto by a then-unknown rock trio composed of guitarist Alex Lifeson, bassist and vocalist Geddy Lee, and drummer John Rutsey. The initial pressing was 3,500 copies, which quickly sold out, prompting a second pressing, and eventually, a breakthrough for the band.
Despite being recorded hurriedly without much in the realm of budget or advanced equipment, the album managed to reach No. 105 on the Billboard 200 chart in the U.S., and is now certified Gold in both the U.S. and Canada. The eight-track album features an early incarnation of Rush's hard rock/hard progressive sound which was influenced by bands like Cream and Led Zeppelin.
Notable songs from the album include "Finding My Way," the album's opening track, and "Working Man," which was the catalyst for the band's early success. "Working Man" received airplay on a Cleveland, Ohio radio station, which led to a record deal with Mercury Records.
"Rush" is the only Rush album to feature drummer John Rutsey, who left the band due to health issues and was replaced by Neil Peart, in time for their second album, "Fly by Night." With the joining of Peart, the band's lyrics took on more philosophical and literary influences, marking a shift in the band's musical style and direction.
Throughout their career, Rush went on to influence countless musicians across genres, and they remain icons in the world of rock and progressive music.
