[Rick and Roll]

If it weren't for Jethro Tull, Rush would be my favorite band. That is why it pained me to hear Vapor Trails. At least they played the best songs live (which was one of their best concerts I've ever seen, saw them twice last year). I really really liked TFE and Counterparts. It is side 2 of Roll the Bones, side 2 of Presto, and a good portion of Hold Your Fire that I am not enamored with. I do not want to hear Rush stripped down like what is on Vapor Trails - they did that Better with Caress of Steel (probably my favorite Rush record). I found Vapor Trails really subpar and hard on the ear in spots, and especially non-progressive and not real interesting.

The Genesis is a good point - however, I think Duke is stronger, especially songs like Cul-De-Sac and Heathaze - but Burning Rope and The Lady Lies from 3 are excellent too.

I'll have to think about mine for a bit - just had to weigh in on the Rush.