Rush - Snakes & Arrows

Rush have always been a band that have been able to change and adapt their music to fit a given period of time. Whether it be during the era of synth driven music or the era of a stripped down sound Rush have been able to maintain their artistic sensibilities while experimenting with sounds and technology of the time. This outing however, Rush have been able to draw from their vast past and still include modern elements to create a disc that can be enjoyed by die hard and casual fans alike.

Like many before it, Snakes & Arrows starts out like a brick to the face. The album's first single, Far Cry is a multi layered work of art. Far Cry (along with other on the disc) features an electric guitar being backed by an acoustic guitar. This really helps add to the overall sound of the album by making the songs sound fuller. Geddy Lee's bass playing on this album is very melodic. This can be backed up by listening to Malignant Narcissism (One of the discs 3 instrumentals) which features Geddy playing a fret less bass with Neil on a much smaller drum kit then he is normally seen playing. Overall the quality of the tracks is amazing.

Alex Lifeson really shines on this disc, from his excellent solos to his creative electric and acoustic guitar parts. One track in particular features Alex by himself with a 12 string guitar. The song is called Hope. This song shows why Alex Lifeson is one of the most underrated guitarists in rock & roll history.

Rush have come through this outing with a disc that is a great work of art. It draws on elements of their past as well as elements of today. Everything from the song structure to the overall delivery is up to the high technical standards we have come to know of Rush. This disc is arguably Rush's best effort in at least 10 years.