I really only knew 2112 growing up; can’t say they were a real appealing album...I didn’t notice many catchy hooks or melodies. But the concept/story of that record was interesting to me.
They are definitely a cerebral band; my SO says they were done in by the arrival of MTV, since they aren’t really camera-friendly.
They were a heavy touring band in the mid-70s. I remember them opening for Blue Oyster Cult in 1975 or 1976.
I bought the first album, then Caress of Steel and 2112. Then All the World’s a Stage. Wore the grooves of them and played the 8-tracks until they melted.
I happened to catch side one of 2112 on XM a few weeks back. I hadn’t heard it in 30 years. Some of the lyrics seem, ummmm, less profound to my 49 year-old ears, but the music still kicks.