PERMANENT WAVES

Simply a must-have album for any prog-rock fan. This is Rush at their late 70's / early 80's pinnacle and is arguable their most complete release with each and every song a 5-star effort. And yet, in m any ways, it signaled the end of their true progressive period and began a more experimental, and poppier, period.

First off, no pieces here, with six individual songs, most clocking in at under 6 minutes. Second, the sound is more mainstream while still maintaining the bands usual high standards. Third, and most importantly, it all works beautifully. Most are familiar with the hits The Spirit of Radio and Freewill, both of which warrant their renown. Two other shorter songs, Entre Nous and Different Strings, work equally well and bring out the (successfully) quieter side of the band.

But it is the two longer songs that push PWaves into five-start territory. Jacob's Ladder is simply amazing, sonically telling the story of an approaching storm cloud, it's thunderous release and brooding retreat. The keyboard used to represent the light shines down in bright unbroken beams gives me chills. It is an truly creative arrangement and captures the originality that is Rush perfectly.

Natural Science is another true masterpiece. The lyrics, contrasting a pool of water to the universe of possibilities, is among Peart's best lyrical efforts. The frantic, urgent opening is another watershed moment. The song is also another outstanding arrangement, with three distinct, completely different sections that wonderfully complement each other.

Simply a must-have for any true prog fan.