"2112" is the fourth studio album by Canadian rock band Rush, released in 1976. The album is widely regarded as one of the band's seminal works and a landmark in the progressive rock genre.
The album consists of a single conceptual piece divided into seven parts, collectively titled "2112," which occupies the entire first side of the original vinyl LP. The story, penned by drummer and lyricist Neil Peart, is set in a dystopian future society where individual creativity and free will are suppressed by a totalitarian regime. The protagonist discovers an ancient guitar and rediscovers the power of music, ultimately leading to rebellion against the oppressive rulers.
Musically, "2112" features intricate compositions, virtuosic performances, and complex arrangements that showcase the band's technical prowess and innovative approach to rock music. Guitarist Alex Lifeson's inventive riffs and solos, Geddy Lee's dynamic bass lines and soaring vocals, and Neil Peart's intricate drumming all contribute to the album's rich sonic tapestry.
The album's title track, "2112," is often considered one of Rush's defining songs, with its epic scope, shifting dynamics, and progressive rock influences. Other standout tracks include the hard-hitting "A Passage to Bangkok," the atmospheric "Tears," and the anthemic "Something for Nothing."
Upon its release, "2112" received critical acclaim and commercial success, solidifying Rush's status as one of the leading bands in the progressive rock genre. It remains one of the band's most beloved and influential albums, celebrated for its ambitious concept, virtuoso performances, and enduring appeal to fans of rock music.
