GRACE UNDER PRESSURE

Rush's best 80's output, retaining many progressive undertones, with synthesizers that sound proggy rather than 80's commercial, and a mix which still allows Alex's crunching guitar and soaring, heart-wrenching solos to shine through.

For those who see Rush as a cold, robotic trio I offer this album as a counterexample. "Grace Under Pressure" touches you both lyrically and musically, especially in aspect of Geddy's refined voice. Probably not what most Chapter 2 Rush fans are expecting but if you take the time to explore this album without prejudice you will no doubt be overwhelmed by its beauty. Geddy begins to become more of a lead keyboard player on this album rather than just adding atmosphere to the tracks. Grace has the strongest atmosphere of any previous Rush album, with the Alex taking a textural approach to his playing that very nicely compliments the synths.

This is the darkest of any Rush album. Peart seems to have lost his faith in human nature and both the music and lyrics reflects this sentiment. His writing is stripped down from the sci-fi ornamentation of the past and focused more on human relations and emotions. His bare bones, rather blunt lyrical approach, greatly adds a level of sincerity and power to the lyrics.

Grace Under Pressure ends the nearly unprecedented string of near perfect album from Rush that started with Caress Of Steel. The follow up Power Windows would have its moments but fail to capture the listeners imagination and emotions like Grace Under Pressure.