Even though all Rush projects are on indefinite hold, it hasn't stopped Rush lead man Geddy Lee from putting out new material. His first solo project, My Favorite Headache, is just as strong as any Rush album. Yet it holds its own distinct style.
Geddy Lee
My Favorite Headache
Atlantic Records
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From the beginning bass line, there is no doubting that this album is Lee's material. But at the same time, My Favorite Headache has a distinct sound that separates it from Rush, albeit, not that far. Lee's new crew, Soundgarden/Pearl Jam drummer Matt Cameron and K.D. Lang contributor Ben Mink, while talented, are no Neil Peart and Alex Lifeson.
That's not to say that they turned out a bad CD, only that it's different, bordering more on radio rock and straying slightly from the explorative rock stylings of Rush. Regardless, they still manage to create an interesting and intelligent compilation.
Obviously, Lee's bass presence is felt on all the tracks, but it is on tracks like the "Home on the Strange" and "Moving to Bohemia," that he truly shines, diving into either solos or cranking up the bass so that his parts can actually be heard. Here he proves why he is one of the top bassists in the business.
But far from just being an ego trip for Lee, the album is quite imaginative and sincere. Songs like "Slipping" and "The Angel's Share" use pianos and acoustic guitars, respectfully, to make for both variety and meaningful ballads.
The lyrics, especially since they are sung by Lee's unique vocals, are as powerful as any Rush album. Well thought out and constructed so that they flow with the song, the vocals never dominate the music. "Working at perfect, got me down on my knees, success to failure, just a matter of degrees," Lee sings on "Working at Perfekt."
While it's not a Rush album, and little can be done for that, Lee has managed to create the next best thing by letting himself shine along with a talented bunch. Together they have made one of the strongest musical rock albums of the year.
