GRACE UNDER PRESSURE

Another solid release from Rush. Heavy on synth and atmosphere, light on guitar and virtuosity, "Grace Under Pressure" sees Peart delve into darker lyrical subject matter. Although the songs never match the instrumental histrionics of earlier releases there is still enough going on here to elevate them above the "norm". The negative point for me is the lack of stand out tracks (particularly towards the end of the album). High points are the opener "Distant Early Warning", and the lyrically excellent "Red Sector A" (this track truly captures a dark, moving atmosphere). Recommended if you are a fan of 80's era Rush. Solid, but nothing outstanding.