GRACE UNDER PRESSURE

I actually had a tough time accepting this album when it was initially released. It was such a vast departure from anything they had done prior, and thought it was too electronic (never got used to seeing electronic drums incorporated into Peart's kit). Overall, I liked it, but it never stood out.

I picked up the remastered version a few years ago, and now that I'm listening to it with more mature ears, it's turned out to be one of my favorite Rush albums. I love Signals, but thought that Alex Lifeson was just swallowed up. On P/G, however, there seems to be a more even balance between guitar and synths. Even on very keyboard heavy tunes like "Between The Wheels" and "Red Sector A", Lifeson is still able to really bust out. Even displays a little reggae edge with "The Enemy Within", and tear off one of his greatest solos on "Kid Gloves".

"Between The Wheels" was my favorite tune from P/G back then, and still is today. Thunderous synth intro to a song that really powers through with (again) nice guitar work by Lifeson. I do think with this one and Signals, Geddy toned down his 'wail' a bit and he never really hit those high notes again.

P/G isn't my favorite Rush, but it's in my top 5 or 6. Now that these ears are a bit more mature, I'm able to better accept it.