HEMISPHERES

Hemispheres can be considered the pinnacle of Rush's "progiest" era. The album starts off in a great way with Cygnus X-1 Book II. This is a continuance of Cygnus X-1 from A Farewell to Kings. The song is personally my favorite prog epic, coming in at just over 18 minutes. The lyrics encompass Greek Mythology, and the music is some of their best. The next song, Circumstances, is a great Rush rocker. It has the only French words spoken out of all their songs. The Trees has some of Rush's best lyrics. It resembles a smaller power being overshadowed by another... all to be kept equal by "the axe." La Villa Strangiato is easily one of the best rock instrumentals ever made, period. Unfortunately we do not get to hear Alex's amazing guitar solo at the beginning of it on Exit... Stage Left. Still, Geddy Alex and Neil get to showcase their amazing abilities.

A must have by any prog fan... 5/5