POWER WINDOWS

I group the bands third set of releases into what is known as Rush's "Synthesizer Period". All of these albums came out during the 1980's and represent the band's post-Moving Pictures era. The albums are Signals (1982), Grace Under Pressure (1984), Power Windows (1985), Hold Your Fire (1987) and A Show of Hands (1988).

As much as the band may fondly admire Power Windows as a solid piece of work, the fans were not as admirable. Fan reaction was particularly "guarded". This was the most "high-tech" polished album the band had ever produced. Power Windows is indeed spiced liberally with electronics from both Geddy Lee (bass/keybords) and Neil Peart (drums) who began to use "percussion samples". This has become one of the biggest complaints of this particular album. Too many triggered sampling effects and not enough good old fashioned playing.

For one reason or another, I personally just never got into Power Windows (or Hold Your Fire). I feel they just did not connect with the long-time fans. People who were introduced to the band during this period have a different out look on the whole thing.

I give the album just 3 stars. It does have a few good songs on it, but over-all it's weak. It's still a must have for all Rush fans. Not to mention that all of Rush's catalog has been remastered and is currently selling at bargain prices!

Best tracks: The Big Money and Mystic Rhythms