TEST FOR ECHO

Of the post Moving Picture albums, most Rush has taken some time to appreciate. This one however did not take as long. I found it to an excellent release with some finely written music. It has two of my favorite ever Rush songs on it too. The album's title I have always felt was a message to the fans out there...asking just that: Are you out there? One thing to keep in mind, Neil Peart was going through some very difficult personal times during the writing of this album. And after the release of Lifeson's "Victor", the band adopted the slogan: Individually, we are a ass; but together, we are a genius.

Here we go...the title track is so fitting and the perfect opener of the song set. That's one thing Rush has always provided, a strong, powerful and memorable opening song. It sets the pace for what's to come and the next song does just that with its odd time signature I haven't figured out yet but think it's 6/8 and 7/8 alternating. Driven drives home Rush's power again. Solid guitar riff and the song also has a short but sweet bass solo by Geddy Lee. He plays around with that solo on the live version, but that's for another review.

Up next is one of those songs that happens to be a favorite of mine but also a simply great song period. Half The World has a nice vocal hook, great lyrics, and it also includes a mandolin complement during the guitar solo section. The Color of Right again reminds us that Rush can write good songs, Prog or not. The song message is one we should universally agree upon and is typical Peart.

Now what can you say about Time and Motion not being Prog? Very little. This song lets everyone know that Rush still can put together a progressive tune with style. The middle dynamic change still gives me chills. Very dark for Rush in fact. This is my second favorite off the album. Totem musically changes mood for the album to something upbeat. Notice lyrically that Neil Peart returns to his observances of religion, which come out later in a future release more obviously. This song qualifies as one of those not so Prog songs, but still a good song in its own right.

Now comes the song that had many Rush fans scratching their heads. Dog Years. What was Neil thinking!?!? I'd have to call this a lyrical filler. I think the music suffered because of those lyrics, which may in fact simply being tongue in cheek. Musically, this is a strong song. Fortunately Virtuality pulls out the power again and gets the adrenaline flowing. The opening riff is yet another example of Alex Lifeson's talent. And I love that dissonant chord he finishes the riff with.

I have learned to resist, Resist. I little too "soft" for me, although many fans love it. With Limbo, Rush gives us another great instrumental which is highlighted by Geddy singing almost a la the Overture on 2112. This leads into Carve Away the Stone, which revisits a Peart theme about perseverance albeit in a less than positive light. The analogy he uses is the story of Sisyphus, condemned to forever roll a huge stone uphill that always rolled down again, but Peart's message is to never stop trying.

All in all, this album gets 4.5 stars from me because I do play it regularly. It also contains songs that are must listens for any Prog lover. It does not belong in the "for collectors only" category and is at least an excellent addition to any Prog music collection. Why? Without Test For Echo, you wouldn't have some of Rush's best material, TFE, Driven, HTW, T&M, and Virtuality.