Epignosis
Let these hard-working Canadians have their fun. This is not an EP of new music; rather, it's a chance for the trio to pay tribute to songs that heavily influenced them, mostly popular songs of the 1960s. They've earned it.
"Summertime Blues" A spunky take on a classic Eddie Cochran song, this is a version that's full of energy and full of the Rush sound. Each of the verses ends with a short, funky little solo from the three band members in turn.
"Heart Full of Soul" This version captures the spirit of the original, but kicks things up a notch with a fuller sound.
"For What It's Worth" This Stephen Stills protest song from 1967 is given a surge of power (conviction even), but despite Alex Lifeson's gritty (and hard-panned soloing), Rush allows it to retain its soft texture, which works well against the darker lyrics.
"The Seeker" The band would be remiss without including something from The Who, and they do so in fine style. Geddy Lee's vocals are stupendous.
"Mr. Soul" Lifeson carries a great variety of tones throughout this rendition of one of Neil Young's greatest works. The other members are certainly solid in their respective roles, but this is Lifeson's gig.
"Seven and Seven Is" Whereas Lifeson and Lee stood out on earlier tracks, Neil Peart gets things rocking with rapid snare work. The band does a great job bringing new life to this "proto-punk" song by Arthur Lee.
"Shapes of Things" This classic is given a gritty makeover, and to my ears, this sounds like it came right off Lee's solo album.
"Crossroads" The band leaves the soulful blues of Robert Johnson's original in favor of Cream's grittier and more upbeat version. Lee's bass cuts through for once, even when it's Lifeson's screeching guitar in the fore.
Epignosis | 3/5 | 2009-5-6
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