HEMISPHERES

In a time when progressive rock was losing about all hope, Rush kept releasing classic release after classic release. After what could be considered the highpoint of their career, A Farewell to Kings, the band decided to top themselves off again. Though the album may not be as consistent as the previously mentioned, the songs are tighter, more evolved, and having much more feeling; even though I know that it was a very hard time for the band to record this album, due to it's complexity.

1.Cygnus X-1 Book Two: Hemispheres - Even though the story telling may not be as coherent as epics such as 2112 or Xanadu, i'm willing to call it one of the band's most consistent efforts. The song, dealing with Greek mythology about the struggle of heart and mind, is probably the most well written of the epics and has a "never-dull" characteristic, and I KNOW people will disagree with me. The aggervated riffing mixed with slower and gentle part are perfectly placed on this track, as Alex Lifeson, Neil Peart, and Geddy Lee create their master-work. The band had decidedly mixed a bit of head-banging with the symphonic structures of band's like Yes, leaving the lyrics of Peart to flourish and the band to really rock. Lee's vocal is very high, as it would be one of the last times he would sing like this. His bass playing is very complex and works well with the impressive drumming of Peart. Lifeson never fails to amaze me, as he plays one of my all - time favourite solo's on this track. Melodic and structured, the song never ceases to be pristine. (10/10)

2.Circumstances - Easily the weakest of the tracks on the album; though easily the most accessible of the track. The song has that unforgetable and immortal riff from Lifeson, and a true Heavy Metal feeling. Lee's complex bass playing and hard - hitting antics are always a pleasure, even if his vocals are a bit annoying. Pearts drumming is always perfect, as he really smashes with intensity on this song. The French chorus is intense, as is this track on a whole. Breakdowns of pure symphonic ecstasy are found here, with the band at full form during the short duration of the track. (9.5/10)

3.The Trees - Out of the shorter tracks, this is the best. The band had put together completely thoughful lyrics of the maples and oaks (America and Canada) in an increasingly interesting story of greed and hate. The music isn't a bore either. Lifeson starts with a classical intro on guitar, then leads the band into a harrowing journey of musical direction and thought. Lee's vocals are sung with passion and beauty, while is moog playing and complex bass rhythms aren't too shabby either. Peart, as always, becomes the master of drums on this song, as his ability is never under-esitmated. A true Rush classic. (10/10)

4.La Villa Strangiato - The band had saved the musical utopia for last. Pure Euphoria, is a way to put the track into one. The band is in perfect form for the track, as their virtuosity is only matched by the sounds. Lee's basslines are completely epics, as are Lifesons amazingly emotional and passionate guitar playing and solo's. Peart seems to be playing is heart out on the drumkit, with his steady beats and amazingly huge sound complete the bands symphonic breakdown instrumental. This is as much a Rush monument as it is a Heavy Symphonic Rock one. (10/10)

The band had completed their most consistent album to date and were completely drenched of creativity. The songs are beautiful in a majestic way, keeping a hard rocking edge with the progressive jams and structures in tact. This is the last record of this kind, and is beautiul in every way. A 5 stars must be award, no more, no less.