SIGNALS

Signals is a perfect title for this great album. Because it signals that Rush is ready to take a new step along their trail of forever-greatness. I wasn't pleased when I listened to this for the first time. Synths all over the place! What happened to the three guys that made A Farewell to Kings, Hemispheres and...you all know the list. It's even funky, and do I notice some reggae influences as well?

The truth is that nothing happened, they are doing just the same thing they've done for decades now. Producing top-notch quality music flavoured by its time, spiced up by great musicianship and the intensity I only have found with Rush so far. Beautiful layers of flowing keys is this albums most prominent feature, with the guitar in the back. A shame, says some, great say I. At least in this case. Because the music doesn't suffer from this, it's still very present in this laid-back textural way. Geddy's singing is tasteful as usual, not a trace of aggression here. Coming to think of it that is another dominant feature here. Reflection is the word for describing the album.

From the dark and oh-so-true lyrics of Subdivisions, through the musical bliss that is The Analog Kid (atmosphere...intensity!), the uniquely vibrant and the groovy Digital Man, passing the chilling The Weapon, groovy and great again with New World Man until the album finally lands (or should I say take off) with more sad reflection in Losing It and the underrated Countdown.

Ah, Countdown, so tense and well-executed. Probably the closest most of us will come to space travel, and in itself a celebration of the possibilities we actually have today.

Never dismiss this album for not being classic Rush. It sure is a big step forward, even in comparison to Moving Pictures, and yes, that fact might scare some people away. Just like it did with me. But give it time and you'll be rewarded. This is Rush both in spirit and in music.