MOVING PICTURES

Moving Pictures was the one single album that convinced me to become a fan of what I understood to be "prog" rock. Are Rush true goliaths of authentic "prog?" No. However, one cannot deny their place in the pantheon of superlative players and writers in the often misinterpreted genre called "prog."

Tom Sawyer is a terrific opener matching lyric and music better than any other track on the album. It combines melodic elements of guitar, synth and vocal that are complex yet easier to comprehend than most Rush songs are (read: you can always tell where "1" is).

Red Barchetta features searing guitar and the great foundation of Geddy Lee and Neil Peart. Musically it seems to simulate what the narration is about which makes this song extremely appealing.

YYZ is, in my opinion, the most accesible instrumental in the Rush library. Alex Lifeson really shines on this track with the Hispanic sounding guitar solo and what I think is the best "feel" playing on the album. An instrumental gem.

Limelight is the most often heard song radio-wise (at least where I live) on the record and for many reasons - it ought to be. First, it's solidly played and sonically accesible. Secondly, it introduces uninformed listeners to timings other that 4/4 almost without them knowing it. That's the true genius of Rush. Finally, it proves Rush could be successful as a radio entity if they chose to be.

The Camera Eye tells us about Londoners and New Yorkers being too busy to be concerned with the little things in life. It's appropriate even more so today. Sonically I find this song a little dull and the synth part I loved so much in my youth has waning interest for me. Still there are some neat moments and I think the solo interplay between Lifeson and Lee is the finest on the album.

Witch Hunt is a dark, brooding song which really features Lifeson. The yelling heard in the intro is actually Neil Peart out in the snow. (See: Visions by Bill Banasiewicz) I truly like the mood set in this piece and it's got a timeless message.

The closer is Vital Signs, a very 80's driven song with an Andy Summers-style guitar. It's got a unique flavor all its own and is a nice diversion to close the album.

Overall the mixing is terrific but the mastering (on the original) is not very gratifying. The remasters do as best as can be done with what was recorded to tape. I only wish more could've been done as the library before 1986 is simply not as good sonically. Regardless this album is a "must" for any fan of progressive rock even if one doesn't consider Rush true "prog."