MOVING PICTURES

This album has been very influential for me. This was the first prog rock album that I ever heard, and I was instantly hooked. Naturally, this is also my first prog review. I now primarily listen to prog music and I've never looked back.

The most prominent feature of this album is the fantastic drumming. However, I am a drummer, so I may be biased. While may not be as technical as say Portnoy, he puts the perfect beats and fills in just the right places, which is even more important than speed fills. Peart only adds to the music. He never distracts the listener or detract from the music.

IMHO, the best song on the album is Witch Hunt. The lyrics speak very strongly to me. I live in a very Lutheran environment. Not all, but some Missouri Synod Lutherans tend to be "Quick to judge, Quick to anger, Slow to understand." I especially like the part at about 2:16 when geddy lets out a passionate wail. The wail combined with Peart's fill equals a magical musical moment.

Tom Sawyer, Red Barchetta, Limelight, and YYZ are classics and I will not add to what others have written about these great songs.

I enjoy the underrated Vital Signs. Very interesting drums. The lyrics are sort of ridiculous, but they are still cool. This song also has two very nice drum fills at 1:15 and 2:39.

The only weak point on this album is Camera Eye. Some people love it, but it doesn't do that much for me. However, it is still better than most songs by other artists. But compared to Red Barchetta and YYZ, its kind of a let down.

This musicianship on this album is very deep. I took piano lessons for a decade, so I like to think I have a good appreciation for "higher" music. I always find new nuances and details in these songs every time I listen to them.

All in all, this album is great, but it now!!