Power Windows [Remaster] by Rush (CD, Jun-1997, Mercury)

I remember back when this was new and most of the die hard Rush fans really didn't care much for it because it is heavily laden with synthesizers and the writing style was different than anything that had come before it. Since then, and after most people got used to the 80's coming to a close and the death of progressive rock for a more pop styled sound out of the band this cd has gotten more respect as it has aged. I would place this cd down near the bottom of my favorite Rush releases but it still has very good moments also. The highlight and absolute best song on this release is the last track "Mystic Rhythms" with its pounding drum beats from the master of percussion Neil Peart. But track 2 "Grand Designs" is also a very strong song with a great message. "So much style without substance, so much stuff without style." is the opening lines from this song, and I used to joke back when this was first released that they were talking about their own record (this one). If your a true Rush fan then you'll eventually get this to have a complete collection, but if your just new to the band or need alot of other studio cd's from them, then I'd wait and get this one near last. This is one of several of the bands releases from the mid to late 80's that really needs to grow on you for a while before you come to finally appreciate it. Some people never do.

I used to really dislike this album, would have rated it 2 stars about 3 months ago. Now, it's actually my favorite Rush album, and Rush is my favorite band. I don't think that the guitar is buried as much as Signals or Hold Your Fire, but there is just as much synthesizer as Hold Your Fire and more than Signals. The album is very well-balanced, with all 4 instruments keeping each other in check.

The highlights of this album are the epic Manhattan Project, the climactic Marathon (tied with The Fountain of Lamneth for my favorite Rush song), and the pounding Mystic Rhythms. The other 5 tracks are also masterpieces, but if I were to fully describe each track, I'd run out of room.

My recommendation: Don't buy this as your first Rush album... Buy it as your 5th or so, and give it time to warm up to you. It really is amazing if you let it be.

Power Windows, Signals and Hold You Fire. Can't go wrong with 80's Rush. Love it. Played the crap out of it. These guys are polished musicians of the highest order. You might call them the divine trinity. Nuff said.