"A Farewell to Kings" is the fifth studio album by Canadian rock band Rush, released on August 29, 1977, by Anthem Records. The album marked a significant moment for the band, achieving their first Top 40 success in both the US and the UK, and reaching No. 11 in Canada.
Following the success of 2112, Rush chose to record A Farewell to Kings outside of Toronto for the first time, opting for Rockfield Studios in Wales. The album is noted for its expanded sound, incorporating greater use of synthesizers and a variety of instruments. It features both lengthy tracks like the 11-minute "Xanadu" and shorter ones such as the under 3-minute "Closer to the Heart," which became live favorites. The closing track, "Cygnus X-1 Book I: The Voyage," is part of a science-fiction themed story that continues on their next album, Hemispheres.
Critically, A Farewell to Kings was generally well-received. The single "Closer to the Heart" reached No. 36 in the UK. The album was supported by Rush's most extensive tour up to that point, covering over 140 dates across North America and Europe. In 2017, a 40th-anniversary remastered edition was released, featuring bonus tracks and a 5.1 surround sound mix.
