SNAKES & ARROWS

Rush have long been one of my favourite bands and rarely produce a bad album.This umpteenth release is, if nothing else, a testament to their great staying power in a career spanning decades and involving most of the important changes in rock music.Punk,disco,grunge and new romantic have come and gone but Rush steadfastly remain putting out solid (if a little unambitious) music for fans that appreciate 'intelligent rock'. Lots of lyrics here about the world in general without pontificating or being too polictial in tone.Mucically though its all a bit rambling to my ears. No real focus or direction and falling dangerously close to 'aimless'. Perhaps Rush have finally run out of ideas. Many of these songs would not be out of place on 'Roll The Bones' and they've even repeated the dreadfull tinny drum sound of that aforementioned album.My overall verdict..not great ,not bad. There are many worse things out there but unless you are a concerted fan of this band I would avoid it.