Post by "The Freq" on May 6, 2007 9:00:13 GMT -5
Well, I bought it, and I do like it.. It's not their best but it's not their worst. Musically it's a merging of their original sound with a modern twist. Acoustic guitars are featured throughout the album and the sound is far better than their last offering "Vapor Trails". Gone though are Neil Pearts well thought out drum grooves and fills. He plays great but nothing stands out to me. He did however put a ton of effort into the lyrics which are far darker than anything previous. Geddy's bass playing stands out on this album and really carries it. Lifeson has his moments but like Peart, his parts dont' seem to grab me like other albums. That said, the album features 3 instrumentals and some really good songs and I must say on the first play, I enjoyed the majority of the album. I do love the effect on Geddes lead vocal when there are no harmony vocals.. For some reason this album has way too many harmonies for my liking. Had Geddy just did single vocals, I would have loved the album much more. I really loved "One Little Victory" as the hit single off their last album and this new album seems to not have an ass kickin' tune like that but all and all, it's a strong album. If you you're a fan of pre 1980 Rush, you won't like it and I must say once and for all, Rush will never return to those days. It's 27 years now since Moving Pictures so I think you're holding your breath for nothing.. ;-) The inner booklet features some great art and photography some of which I think should have been the cover.
As for their last album, I hope it gets remixed and remastered. Sound wise is was "substandard". One thing about Rush albums that most fans wait for.. Musicianship, Strong in depth songs and stellar sound quality which is where "Vapor Trails" failed miserably. Still, I can't say it enough.. "One Little Victory" is a great song for Rush and hearing it with a proper mix would be like Christmas to me.. :-)
