J. King Log

Rush have for many long been the definition of Canadian rock music. In my case, though, I had not heard Rush until a couple of years ago, when my brother played 2112 for me. I was instantly blown away. From the eerie and titillating opening instrumental; to the loud, warbling priests; to the bright-eyed man's first experiments on his new-found treasure; all the way to the ominous ending, the album's title track was an amazingly bountiful feast for a science-fiction fan like myself. This, coupled with the other excellent offerings on the disc prompted me to find more Rush and embrace their excellence as if it were my patriotic duty.

Since, I have purchased many albums from the 1970s, and a few from the 1980s. Although I enjoyed Rush's 80s sound (especially on Grace Under Pressure), I preferred the 1970s segment of their body of work, perhaps in large because they had many over-long songs like the aforementioned 2112 and Xanadu from A Farewell to Kings (just to name two). Today I may have to revise my opinion.

Earlier I started listening to Hold Your Fire. Although this had not been my first time listening to it, it was my first time listening from beginning to end. I can easily say that each track on the album is at least good; many are excellent. The last two tracks, Tai Shan and (especially) High Water lift my spirits as little has been able to do these days; they alone are worth the modest purchase price of the album.

I wouldn't say that I prefer 1980s Rush necessarily, but I can safely affirm that it no longer plays second fiddle to its earlier kin. If you're someone who is not afraid of a few synthesizers, I would definitely recommend getting Hold Your Fire. You shall not be disappointed.