HEMISPHERES

I am not one to give 5 star ratings but a classic is a classic and this is exactly that. A recent reviewer actually gave this 2 stars! Sounds like someone isn't actually into progressive music or something. 2 stars? Might try a pop album, my friend as this is by far one of Rush's most progressive records, right up there with 2112.

The first side is the title track which is a sequel to Cygnus X-1 from A Farewell To Kings. Amazing 18 plus minutes of Rush at their most progressive. The second side is just as perfect. The vastly underrated Circumstances leads it off and gives a hint as to the future direction of the band. Next is of course, The Trees which is one of the truly great songs in the entire Rush catalog (no question). The finale is the amazing instrumental La Villa Strangiato which was based on cartoon themes. Insane and amazing.