SIGNALS

Though not as appreciated by the progressive rockers as much as by the synthrockers of the era, Rush's 1982 release Signals takes a turn in a new direction; and one that many fans do not enjoy too much. I, personally, find the album to an experience. To reach this inner peace with the album, you must listen to it. It's definatly a sleeper, but it's worth it when you really take the time to reach inside the music.

1.Subdivisions - The most memorable synth riff to come from the album; albeit with a total overhaul of previous leanings. The song is interesting in the fact that bassist, singer and keyboardist Geddy Lee has taken a much more leading role in his subdued vocal style and his new wave synth sounds. It's actually very textured when it's really looked at, as they lyrics tend to compliment the bleak music of conformity with an almost sarcastic view, yet totally true and serious subject matter. Neil Pearts lyrics and drum rolls are perfect for the song, as his talent is definatly not held back. Lead guitarist Alex Lifeson is the only one of concern on this song, as he seems extremely background while holding a much more rhythm section type of sound. It's actualy interesting to listen to the changes within the band. A classic among the album, as it's the essential opener. (10/10)

2.The Analog Kid - A personal favourite of mine off of the album. Lifeson's guitar role is emphasized on this song, as are the hardcore basslines from Lee. His vocals flow perfectly over the music; Lee has changed very much in the past few albums, with his almost beautiful and less harsh vocal style. Peart is beating the hell out of his drumkit, as the almost symphonic textures of the synths make his playing take a slowdown, yet he retains a spirit of total rock. The song is hard not to enjoy. (10/10)

3.Chemistry - Though it's an excellent song, there is no real progression as the last few had. Synths and moogs cover the sound in an almost cheesey way, yet tricky time keeping is always relevant. Lifeson, although in the background during intros, has an almost shred guitar riff over the main riffing. The song overall is trying to sound as if textured, it is, but comes off as emotionless. The song rarely shows its true feelings as a Rush track. (8.5/10)

4.Digital Man - The song has been a long-time favourite of mine. It's an excellent flourish of the reggea influences that took a steady upbringing on the previous two albums. Shimmering guitar from Lifeson, heavy Rickenbacker tone from Lee, and always changing drumming from Peart, the song has so much to pay attention to. The song stays away from the overtly large keyboard sound that dominated the previous few tracks, with the exception of track 2, and has a larger sound on bass and guitar. The result is one of the most rocking numbers from the album. (10/10)

5.The Weapon - Easily my least favourite from the album. Though the song shows improvement in technical ability from the band members, I can't help but feel very bored with the song due to lack of emotion or any rock in the track. Lee's vocal performance, in particular, is very average and almost borders on boring. The lyrics are excellent from Peart, but they just don't seem to work here. Almost seems like robots are playing the instruments in an almost dull workout of instrumentation, as it seems just about perfect, yet boring. A song that could have worked if there was more power into the song. (7.5/10)

6.New World Man - The highest charting song from the album does not signify best from the album. Though the song is much better than the previous track, it seems that the band had lost enthusiasm with this track. Reggea influences really flourish with this intensly average track, as the band blends that influence with a progressive leaning (almost crossover prog more than heavy prog). Lee has a great vocal performance, I might want to add. (8/10)

7.Losing It - Wow. One of the most underrated tracks from the album is easily a top cut. After two rather dull and non-emotional almost robotic songs, we get a flow of absent desire and complete emotional response. Synth riffing from Lee is stellar, as are Pearts almost jazz-rock drumming. These crucial elements added to Lifesons slow guitar playing, Lee's soft vocal style and Ben Mink's amazing electric violin style of playing really make the song the unknown Rush classic. (10/10)

8.Countdown - After the emotional response of the last song, Rush go into an almost Math Rock stage. The NASA - inspired lyrics based on the shuttle launch really had an impact on the music. Though not as emotional as the previous song, the band goes into an interesting instrument prowess where Lee showcases his excellent synth playing. Though the synth riffing itself is a bit average, his solo mid song is very intense and shows how much he has grown musicaly in the past few years. Lifeson and Peart are no slouches either, as they enounter racing rhythms and intense intrument interplay. An excellent track to listen to. (9.5/10)

The album is probably the most consistent of their synth era. Though there are some songs that seem way too dull and average, most of it is excellent and has an almost symphonic flourish. The album gets a 4 stars because it's not completely essential, but it's an amazing addition to your album collection.