HOLD YOUR FIRE

"Hold Your Fire' is an element of the 3rd incarnation of Rush. It is a significant evolution in style from their classic rock roots - migrating more towards well composed power pop presented with intense energy and amazing musicianship. It is this era of Rush that was given the nickname "Power Trio." While the material from this album is not featured in regular classic rock rotation, the compositions should not be overlooked. The content is not reserved for die hard Rush fans - the songs are strangely timeless and universal, which is probably why it has not gained the favor of most Rush fans who favor the obscure.

The material on "Fire' features the best overall presentation from Rush. The arrangement of all instruments is flawless featuring well balanced percussion, bass, keyboards, guitar and vocals. It features Geddy's best vocal performances and is, without question, the best lyrical output from Neil Peart. The depth of his lyrics is typified by elements from 'Turn the Page' and 'Mission':

"Truth is after all a moving target. Hast to spin in pieces that don't fit." (Turn the Page)

"I hear their passionate music. Read the words that touch my heart. I gaze at their feverish pictures; the secrets that set them apart" (Mission)

Neil consistently paints lyrical images that tap the emotions of the listener. I visualize his stories as the music plays. it is a rare treat. The lyrics transition the complex, energy driven performances to a spiritual experience.

When I listen to "Fire," I am stunned by the power of the rhythm section. Neil's percussion is dynamic, complex, and precise. Alex's guitar does not take center stage, but sings with emotion that raises the hair on my arms. And what can I say about Geddy's bass? Well, it is the highlight of this CD. His lines are complex, syncopated, and amazingly melodic. His bass on "Prime Mover," Force 10", and "Turn the Page" have convinced me that this CD is the GREATEST BASS CD of all time. And yes, I do like McCartney, Entwistle, Squire, Jaco, Claypool, Clarke, etc. I have heard all of it and still believe that this is the best bass material out there. Beyond that, it is accompanied with incredible guitar, percussion, lyrics, and compositions.

As an owner of all Rush material. along with 600 other CD's, I find my play lists featuring Force 10, Time Stand Still, Prime Mover, Turn The Page, and Mission. That's over half of the material from this CD. Few other disks in my collection can claim this level of attention; I find 'Fire' in the same company as Quadrophenia, Dark Side of the Moon, and select others. If you do not own this CD, go out and buy it.