[sirchtruth]

The thing is, that back then bands like Led Zeppelin were innovators, charting new ground.

Boy that statement is totally spot on!

My favorite band is RUSH and they still surprise me even today, but something is missing and I think you nailed a word here that says it all.

Innovative...I would just add tastefully infront of that.

[Tolerance Sucks Rocks]

My favorite band is RUSH and they still surprise me even today, but something is missing and I think you nailed a word here that says it all.

GREAT band! I spent a day (a release day) at the mall waiting for Grace Under Pressure to arrive. Unfortunately, release day does not equal "day album arrives at store..."

[stands2reason]

My favorite band is RUSH

Mine too, until Grace Under Pressure. Got too keyboard-y. 2nd favorite is Metallica, up til Black. My other favorite is Tool, who I still like, though they only put out an album every 3-4 years.

What do these bands have in common with all great bands?

IT'S THE DRUMMER, STUPID!!!