MOVING PICTURES

Resisting the opportunity to exploit the singles chart success of "The spirit of radio", with "Moving Pictures" Rush produced what is arguably their most coherent and considered album. With Lifeson and Lee providing the music for Peart's lyrics throughout, there is a continuity to the music with each track being carefully constructed and fully developed.

The synthesisers are once again present to fill out the sound, but it is Lifeson's guitar work which differentiates the album. On the opening "Tom Sawyer", the guitars positively chime, while on the following "Red Barchetta" it is the riffs which catch the ear.

The instrumental "YYZ" offers a welcome relief from the sometimes difficult vocals of Geddy Lee, the jam like feel of the track being at odds with the rest of the album. "Limelight", which closes side one of the LP is one of Rush's most melodic tracks, the chiming guitars once again providing a tasteful background.

Side two opens with a 10+ minute epic "The camera eye". This is a truly heavy number with guitar and bass combining to drive the track forward. Lee's surprisingly sensitive vocals therefore provide an interesting counterpoint especially on part one of the two part track.

"Witch hunt" is interesting as it is sub-titled Part 3 of "Fear". The only minor issue is that parts one and two of "Fear" had not yet appeared, but would follow on later albums. Peart's lyrics here are among his most poignant, "Quick to judge, quick to anger, slow to understand. Ignorance and prejudice and fear walk hand in hand" (Now why did I think of our forum there?!)

Only the closing "Vital signs" comes across as superfluous, a decent enough song, but rather anonymous in the company of its peers.

In all, probably Rush's strongest offering (of those I have come across). The album succeeds in balancing thoughtful track structures with accessible melodies and competent performances.

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