Rush – 2112

2112, released in March 1976, stands as Rush’s bold proclamation of prog-rock ambition and creative independence. Under pressure from their label after lukewarm reception to their earlier work, the band responded with a daring side-long suite that dominates the first half of the album and a set of tighter songs on the second. Neil Peart’s lyrics introduce a dystopian sci-fi narrative of individualism vs. control, while Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson navigate between hard rock punch, acoustic interludes, and moments of orchestral sweep. The production, shared with Terry Brown, allows each element—vocals, synths, guitars, rhythm—to breathe amidst complex arrangements.

“2112” remains the centerpiece: a seven-part epic that weaves overture, rebellion, soliloquy, and finale into a dramatic arc. The shorter compositions on side two—like “A Passage to Bangkok,” “The Twilight Zone,” and “Something for Nothing”—complement the concept track with variety and immediacy. Upon release, 2112 revived Rush’s commercial trajectory and became a touchstone for their identity. Over time it has been celebrated as a defining statement in the progressive rock canon, a career milestone that cemented the band’s reputation for melding narrative ambition with instrumental virtuosity.

"Instead of choosing between prog rock and heavy rock, both styles are merged together to create an interesting and original approach." – AllMusic

“Rush made more-popular records, more-succinct records, but 2112 … is their most extreme, grandiose and Rush-like record, and thus their greatest.” – Rolling Stone

“Rush’s career-saving and career-defining album … firing the imagination of fans and wowing them with some incendiary prog in the bombastic opening couplet of the 2112 suite and the climactic Grand Finale.” – Louder

“Yes, Rush slot nicely into those ‘essential’ progressive rock lists … Rush emanate an energy that isn’t necessarily present on classic Pink Floyd or Genesis records.” – Stereoboard