Rush – Caress Of Steel

Catalog #: ANR-1-1003
Side A Matrix: ANR-3̶-1-1003C̶ -SIDE A̶ 1 R̶E̶C̶O̶R̶D̶ ̶3̶ ③ ⓪
Format: Vinyl LP Gatefold

About the Artist

Rush is the legendary Canadian power trio from Toronto, Ontario — comprising Geddy Lee (vocals, bass, keyboards), Alex Lifeson (guitars), and Neil Peart (drums, lyrics). Widely regarded as one of the most technically accomplished and intellectually ambitious rock bands of all time, Rush built a devoted global following over five decades through relentless touring and a catalog spanning hard rock, progressive rock, and new wave. Their musicianship, complex arrangements, and literary-inspired lyrics set them apart from virtually every other band of their era.

About the Album

Caress Of Steel (1975) is Rush's third studio album and one of their most daring and misunderstood records. Released on Mercury Records, it marked a bold pivot toward progressive rock ambition — featuring extended, side-long compositions that would lay the groundwork for the landmark 2112 (1976). At the time of release, the album was a commercial disappointment and drew criticism from the label, yet it has since been reappraised as a pivotal and courageous step in the band's artistic evolution — Rush at their most experimental, willing to risk everything on their creative vision.

Highlights

The album opens with the hard-driving “Bastille Day”, a politically charged rocker that remains a fan favourite and a live staple. “Lakeside Park” offers a rare moment of nostalgic warmth, inspired by Neil Peart’s childhood memories of a park in Port Dalhousie, Ontario. The album’s centrepiece is the epic “The Necromancer” and the sprawling closer “The Fountain of Lamneth” — a continuous six-part journey occupying all of Side B and one of the most ambitious compositions in the band’s catalogue. These extended pieces foreshadow the progressive grandeur that would define Rush’s classic era.

Record Condition

• Carefully cleaned with a Spin-Clean record washer
• Stored in a new protective inner sleeve
• Minor surface scuffs present
• Played flawlessly on a quality turntable — no skips
• Minor pops and crackles noted, consistent with age and grade

Jacket Condition

• Fair condition--the word "NEW" in written in ink inside the sleeve
• Side seam wear visible
• Ring beginning to form on cover
• Please review all photos carefully before purchasing

A genuine piece of Rush history — the album that dared to dream before the world was ready to listen.