Ranking Rush: A Comprehensive Look at Every Studio Album

Few bands have left as indelible a mark on rock music as Rush. Emerging with their self-titled debut album in 1974, they faced early comparisons to icons like Led Zeppelin. A notable moment occurred when music director Donna Halper played “Working Man” on WMMS in Cleveland, prompting a flood of calls from listeners convinced it was a new track from the legendary group.

More than five decades later, Rush has amassed a remarkable discography, including 19 studio albums and 11 live records, culminating in their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2013. The band’s journey is characterized by the pivotal hiring of drummer and lyricist Neil Peart in 1974, who replaced original drummer John Rutsey. The unexpected announcement of Rush’s return to touring in 2026, featuring new drummer Anika Nilles, adds another layer to their storied legacy.

Rush’s body of work reflects a commitment to musical evolution, with each album presenting a unique facet of their artistry. Below, we explore and rank every studio album from least to most acclaimed.

Exploring Rush’s Studio Albums

19. Hold Your Fire (Mercury, 1987)
This album has faced criticism over the years for its polished production, which overshadowed the quirkiness of its predecessors, Signals and Grace Under Pressure. Despite its mixed reception, tracks like “Time Stand Still” and “Force Ten” warrant a re-evaluation, showcasing some of Rush’s best work from the 1980s.

18. Vapor Trails (Atlantic, 2002)
Marking Peart’s return after a period of personal tragedy, “Vapor Trails” is a significant release. Its emotional depth is palpable, particularly in songs like “One Little Victory” and “Ghost Rider,” although the overall musical coherence suffered due to its jam-based construction.

17. Test For Echo (Atlantic, 1996)
Geddy Lee described this album as lacking a clear direction, yet it contains noteworthy tracks like “Limbo” and “Resist.” Though it may not resonate as strongly as other albums, it still reflects Rush’s progressive roots.

16. Presto (Atlantic, 1989)
Heralded as a departure from their “keyboard phase,” “Presto” has a distinct 1980s sound. It features strong songwriting, with tracks like “Chain Lightning” and the anthemic “War Paint” showcasing Rush’s evolving style.

15. Counterparts (Atlantic, 1993)
This album marked a reconnection with the band’s rock roots, influenced by contemporary grunge bands. Tracks like “Animate” and “Stick It Out” exhibit a more straightforward rock approach while retaining Rush’s complexity.

14. Caress Of Steel (Mercury, 1975)
Often regarded as a challenging listen, “Caress Of Steel” introduced more progressive elements. The ambitious “The Necromancer” and “The Fountain Of Lamneth” highlight Peart’s lyrical prowess, even if the album initially struggled commercially.

13. Snakes And Arrows (Atlantic, 2007)
Returning to a more classic sound, “Snakes And Arrows” benefited from a collaborative production approach. The album features tracks like “Far Cry” and “Working Them Angels,” which remind fans of the band’s earlier energy.

12. Roll The Bones (Atlantic, 1991)
With a fresh production style, “Roll The Bones” revitalized the band’s sound. Songs like “Dreamline” and “Bravado” highlight Rush’s ability to blend catchy melodies with thought-provoking lyrics.

11. Power Windows (Vertigo, 1985)
Acknowledged for its tighter arrangements, “Power Windows” includes standout tracks like “The Big Money” and “Manhattan Project.” This album showcases the band’s tight-knit synergy and musicianship.

10. Rush (Moon, 1974)
Their debut album, featuring original drummer Rutsey, reflects Rush’s early influences. Tracks like “Working Man” gained unexpected popularity, establishing Rush’s initial foothold in the rock industry.

Defining Moments in Rush’s Discography

9. Clockwork Angels (Roadrunner Records, 2012)
Released as the band’s final studio album, “Clockwork Angels” is a concept album filled with standout tracks such as “Caravan” and the reflective “The Garden.” Its themes resonate deeply, especially following Peart’s passing.

8. Grace Under Pressure (Mercury, 1984)
This album, produced during a time of Cold War tension, features powerful tracks like “Distant Early Warning” and “Red Sector A.” It exemplifies Rush’s willingness to explore darker themes through a synthesizer-laden sound.

7. Fly By Night (Mercury, 1975)
The introduction of Peart marked a significant turning point for Rush. With a blend of hard rock and progressive elements, “Fly By Night” set the stage for the band’s future innovations.

6. Signals (Mercury, 1982)
Expanding on their previous sound, “Signals” further incorporated synthesizers. Tracks like “Subdivisions” and “Digital Man” showcase the band’s exploration of new musical landscapes.

5. Hemispheres (Mercury, 1978)
This album features the epic title track and exemplifies Peart’s literary and philosophical influences. The balance of complexity and accessibility in songs like “The Trees” and “Circumstances” underscores Rush’s evolving artistry.

4. Permanent Waves (Mercury, 1980)
Often viewed as a bridge between their early and later works, “Permanent Waves” introduced radio-friendly hits like “The Spirit of Radio.” It balances progressive elements with more accessible songwriting.

3. A Farewell To Kings (Mercury, 1977)
The album showcases the band’s artistic growth, featuring longer compositions such as “Xanadu” and “Closer to the Heart.” This release solidified Rush’s place in the progressive rock pantheon.

2. 2112 (Mercury, 1976)
With its title track spanning nearly 21 minutes, “2112” is a landmark album that showcases Rush’s storytelling prowess and musical complexity. The album remains a high point in their discography.

1. Moving Pictures (Mercury, 1981)
Regarded as Rush’s definitive work, “Moving Pictures” features classic tracks like “Tom Sawyer” and “Limelight.” The album’s combination of technical skill and lyrical depth has made it a timeless masterpiece.

As Rush continues to evolve and inspire, their legacy remains firmly entrenched in the fabric of rock music history. Each album not only represents a chapter in their journey but also reflects the band’s unwavering commitment to artistic exploration.