Well, here it is. The first ever Rush review on ProgNaut! Overdue to
be certain, and I am ecstatic to begin with the 1981 release, Moving
Pictures. Perhaps the best work of Mssrs. Lifeson, Peart, and Lee, it
was also a transition album as the band introduced more keyboard and
electronic sounds to convey their music.
It opens with the powerful “Tom Sawyer.” This song is in-your-face and
catchy. What a powerful way to begin! It feels like the beginning of
modern day power-metal as we lead into the next song “Red Barchetta.”
This is one of my personal favorite Rush songs, as Neil Peart’s lyrics
of a future where driving is illegal and a discovery of a classic
racecar leading to defiance is a delight. “Red Barchetta” is a classic
prog song as it changes time signature continually throughout its over
six minute duration. It also features guitar harmonics used in an
inventive and melodic manner.
“YYZ” is one of Rush’s most all-time famous instrumental works and is
still featured in concerts today, 30-some years later. “Limelight” is
another tune that got a little airplay on the radio. It once again
features incredible lyrics by Peart, this time about the difficulties
that come with fame. “The Camera Eye” is mini-opus from the band. This
small epic shows the more rhythmic nature that they would be developing
on following albums.
The album features several “hits” of the day that continue to be popular
on classic rock radio stations and movie soundtracks. Closer “Vital
Signs” is one of the best, with a slightly reggae-inspired beat and
brilliant hooks. One of the most remarkable features about this album
is its memorable factor. Songs like “Tom Sawyer,” “Vital Signs,”
“Limelight,” and even the instrumental “YYZ” have you humming the tunes
well after the record is complete. This is the first Rush purchase I
would recommend to any potential Rush fan. I might follow it with 2112
and Hemispheres, for two other aspects of Rush’s musical styles.
Reviewed by Terry Jackson on May 17th, 2011
