While the Clock May Be Ticking, Rush’s Marathon Show Close to Perfection [REVIEW] [GALLERY]

Perfection -- that's one word that describes a Rush show. Technically flawless, Rush has managed to lead their fans on a sonic journey, only last night at the First Niagara Center, Rush made an even bolder statement. Forty years after the release of their first album and a few weeks removed from being nominated for the Rock 'n Roll Hall of Fame, the power trio proved they still "have it" by showcasing songs from the recently released Clockwork Angels album.

Sure, they played the classics, but when the group opened their second set, they played with renewed vigor, as they powered through nine new songs that felt as timeless as their previous 19 albums and added another chapter to the Rush mythos. Usually  when a classic band breaks out the new material, it's time to head to the bathroom and refill the beer, but backed by an eight-piece string section and a hilarious video story line featuring the trio as gnomes, the die-hard fans stayed in their seats.

They also satisfied the cult of Rush fanatics by pulling out several deeper tracks from the "keyboard era" while paying special attention to the Power Windows album. Laced with social themes that deal with greed, cultural divide, middle class struggles, foreign policy and war-mongering, it was a fitting selection of songs in an American election year. And while Power Windows is 27 years old, its message remains as poignant today as it was when they released it.

Earlier in the show, the crowd was treated to the rarely played "Bravado," and with "Frankenstorm Sandy" heading our way, "Force 10" had a very powerful effect. After wrapping up the Clockwork Angels portion of the show, the band ripped through some fan favorites like "YYZ," "Tom Sawyer" and "Spirit of Radio." A best of 2112 medley closed out the encore and left Rush fans hoping that this wasn't the last time we would see them in Buffalo.