Rush - Power Windows
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Free Music Notes for Power Windows
Free Music Review: Stellar and consistent from front to back
Hit: 5 Stars
Power Windows(1985). Rush's 11th studio album. Coming off of a dreary crisis that dominated Grace Under Pressure(1984), Rush managed to completely recover, and unleash an 80s masterpiece album. To those who actually listen to the music, Power Windows is yet another display of Rush at their all-time best. However, to stringent biased synth-hater types, this is considered to be Rush at an all-time low. From what I've observed, most Rush fans tend to know what the band is all about, but they are TERRIBLE judges at how masterful a Rush album really is. It seems that to them, it doesn't matter how well the keyboards are played and utilized or how meaningful a song is, but it only matters that they are using them period. The fact is, the synths somehow BLIND fans to the point of self-stupidity. Yes, the keyboards are multi-layered throughout the entire album, but underneath it all are wonderful songs, still just as creative as Rush has always ever been.
As the title implies, PW is about the types of power that exist in the world, each song representing power in a different form. I know that many people can interpret what each song means far better than I can, but I will provide a brief explanation of the tracks, so please bear with me. Here's the breakdown track-by-track:
1) The Big Money- This concert favorite kicks off with a blast of guitar and synths and steadily evolves into a fine rock number. This song talks about the power of money and how it can be used for good, and then turn completely around to be used for bad. 10/10
2) Grand Designs- A soaring track which revolves around the power of talk and how the public uses it to display "style over substance". But when something "real" pops up, very few people discover it because of distracting talk. This track is a hidden gem in itself. 9/10
3) Manhattan Project- If not for the shorter length, this track could pass for an epic. This song is about the power of weapons (talking specifically about the atom bomb) and how they can affect everyone in the world. It alternates between slower synth backdrop beat verses, and a faster guitar-driven chorus. SEE? PW IS NOT ALL SYNTHS. 10/10
4) Marathon- Another amazing epic and perhaps PW's strongest track. It's about the power of persistence and how a lot can be achieved in a lifetime if you don't burn out too quickly. Like the last song, Marathon could easily pass as a long epic, if not for its brevity. Excellent use of fast drum-pacing and background choirs. 10/10
5) Territories- A driving, yet melodic mid-paced song about the power of inhabiting land and the different viewpoints of a country conquering another one. Contains mostly synths, but Alex's guitar shines every once in a while. Not bad at all. 9/10
6) Middletown Dreams- Definitely the most progressive track on here. Though the weakest song on the whole album, it still manages to be a masterpiece compared to other music that came out at the time. It's about the power of dreams and their ability to take a person away from normal everyday life. Fairly uneventful, but areas of it do stand out, such as the section after the second chorus. 8/10
7) Emotion Detector- This song picks the pace of the album back up, starting off with a synthy intro and choruses, followed by a phenomenal guitar solo later on. This song talks about the power of emotions and that the only way for other people to see who you really are is by taking a chance and opening yourself up to them. 9/10
8) Mystic Rhythms- PW's final track is by far the least complicated and the synthiest, yet it also manages to be both truly captivating and otherworldly all-in-one. It talks about the power of the unknown, and how there is a huge world out there which we know nothing about. Simply POWERFUL. 10/10
Despite the claims by many "fans" that Rush sold out with PW to pop music, they couldn't be more wrong as the talented trio show the masses how to correctly use keyboards heavily without compromising their integrity and style. Even still, it would have been nice to include Alex more in all the incredible synthesized desert-wide productional soundscapes the songs create, but thankfully Alex will make his true return in a few albums down the road. Rush was simply in a state of awe and wonder over the countless possibilities one could do with the keys. PW gets 5 stars for both production and musicianship. It may not be for beginners or even some hardcore fans, but those who are unbiased towards synths and come in with an open mind will not be disappointed.
"So much style without substance. So much stuff without style. It's hard to recognize the real thing that comes along once in a while..." This IS the real thing, people.
Free Music Review: Forget everything you've heard about this. Now read this:
Hit: 5 Stars
Power Windows, the 11th studio album by Canadian rock trio Rush, was released in 1985. It surpassed the high standards set by 1984's excellent Grace Under Pressure, both in songcraft and production values. The phasing in of keyboards and synthesized drums and guitar reached a zenith on this album and it's follow-up, Hold Your Fire (1987). Far from sounding cheesy, this album has a majestic and sweeping sound that contrasts with the claustrophobic and moody atmosphere of its predecessor.
Geddy Lee proves himself to be an accomplished keyboardist-bassist-vocalist, Alex Lifeson's solos are better than ever before and Neil Peart, as ever, defies the norm with his thought-provoking lyrics, god-like drumming and short hair. Producer Peter Collins should not beoverlooked. His contribution was easily as significant as the band members' were. Here is my overview of the eight glorious soundscapes on offer:
1) The Big Money: (10/10) The perfect opening track. Soaring synth and rapid-fire drumming accompany this lyrical critique of money and its destructive powers (POWER is this album's recurring lyrical theme). The instrumental section starting off with Alex's atmospheric guitar sound and some impressive percussion really make this a Rush classic.
2) Grand Designs: (10/10) A brooding look at triviality and the lack of substance in style. Alex's guitar reminds of Chic's Nile Rodgers (of all things!). Some might say the heavily synthesized chorus was ill-advised. I wouldn't, though.
3) Manhattan Project (10/10): An ironically positive-sounding observation on the state of nuclear science. Turn it up loud to hear that driving bass chord at the beginning! A very melodic verse leads into a memorable chorus underpinned by a glorious guitar motif. Then comes an orchestrated section that really succeeds in capturing the feeling of the Enola Gay as it flew "OUT OF THE SHOCKWAVE!" (don't you just love that part?). Alex's short solo is PHENOMONAL! What did you expect? Richie Sambora?
4) Marathon (10/10). The first really bass-driven song. A jittery bass-line in the verse and bridge leads into a supremely catchy chorus featuring a choir! Once again, Alex's solo is the highlight! (He must've fumed a bit after his notable low-key appearance on Grace..).
5) Territories (10/10): The least Rush-sounding track, but by no means the weakest (a relative term where this album is concerned). Neil's lyrics even add some humour. Heavy on synth but all the better for it. Neil is the real star on this on, in both musical and lyrical "territories".
6) Middletown Dreams (9/10) It sure says a lot about this album when a track like this is considered the weakest! The tricky stop-start intro impresses, as does the (once again) catchy pre-chorus and chorus. I can just imagine fans of 70's Rush cringing when the synth-piano bit starts. I can also imagine them burning to a crisp in a scorching inferno...
7) Emotion Detector (9/10). As with the previous track, this is weak compared to the rest, but still amazing. It features a great keyboard hook and impassioned chorus. Simply a great Rush track, period! Shame they've never performed it live...
8) Mystic Rhythms (10/10) A slow-paced epic with an apt title. Even the synth, which is commonly thought to be clinical and cold sounds emotional here. If you don't get chills when you hear that deep synth chord when Ged sings "or the African sun", you're practically bionic! As someone who lives in Africa, I can honestly say that these 3 Canucks have fully captured the rhythm and atmosphere of dark Mother Africa. And on a synth-driven 80's arena-prog album! Whaddayaknow?
So, to sum it up: this album is alarmingly melodic, intellectual, professional, emotional, (do forgive me) mystically rhythmic and vibrant. While I do believe that every Rush album has its place, from the ambitious concept of 2112 to the organic heavy metal of Vapor Trails, this is the album I will always consider their best. I don't think the band themselves realize just how good this album is.
A great starting point for potential new fans, as well as compulsory addition to existing collections. And that's understating...
LIKE THIS? TRY THESE....
1) Rush - Hold Your Fire (continuation of the theme and easily as good)
2) Iron Maiden - Somewhere In Time (its heavy metal sibling)
3) Yes - 90125 (its progressive-pop sibling)
Free Music Review: RUSH At The Top Of Their Game.... Not To Be Misrepresented!
Hit: 5 Stars
Before I place any personal review on the Power Windows album, I have to clear up a few misconcepting comments I've read by previous viewers. Hopefully, I can shed some new light on the negative reviews given in the archives of this poster board.I can appreciate the different points of personal comment, and, commend some for giving their honest observations within the context Power Windows is rated upon. But, my viewpoints reflect toward being, prehaps, more open-minded than to what some have posted. Most of the negative or mediocre interpretations herein, arose from listeners (and fans, the same),whom are accustomed to the earlier works of RUSH. For those who could not grasp the sudden change in venue, will never fully embrace the color and shape Power Windows represents to one's ears and psyche.
Keep in mind, I do not denounce any previous works of RUSH, for every piece has its own story to tell and are deemed timeless classics for any audiophile or serious RUSH listener, alike. Every RUSH narrative and note breathes a dear life of its own. As is,(in certain circles) a precious child born to their mother, Power Windows is of no exception to the norm.
I must agree that the synth work (at points) are overpowering, but, is just one facet toward the overall complexity and dexterity Power Windows have brought forth to the listener. Lryicly, This is by far, one of the best albums Mr. Peart (pronounced PEERT, in case you were wondering) has ever derived from paper to recording reel. The beginning verse of "The Big Money" to the last chorus of "Mystic Rhythms" shows the diversity and inginuity of Mr. Pearts mind and personal views of the world around him. (Again, I hense, personal views) Some would badger him for the integrity and inginuity behind his poetry. As be the same for writers, poets and philosophers of yesteryear and of today's standards. But, one cannot deny his ability to make sense with his views and/or artistic statements within the text, for it is clearly that which have transpired in our own society.
Musically, note for note, Power Windows does not miss a beat. "No stone left unturned" would simplify the production of this multidimentional piece. The music comes from all directions and are intertwoven perfectly into one another. The words, in addition, presented the depth that has yet to be conceived in modern music. The intricate basslines, fabulous guitar riffs, absolute phenomenal drum and precussion work (still, to be reproduced.) Finally, the ingenious and spirted, yet sometimes harrowing words brought together explains the intensity and craftsmanship that have made Mr. Lee, Mr. Lifeson, and Mr. Peart the foremost pioneers of the genre.
Like a precocious child who has grown into the prominent intellectual, yet amenable to adapt and florish in the vast regions of lyric and song, RUSH have brought their art to a new level. And, are continuing the same quest, as they have so, in the past. This side of RUSH is of no signifigance to tarnish or over-praise the old RUSH from the latter. Power Windows is a continuing "work in progess". I believe that has always been the trio's intentions. And, it is eminent. They have grown as musicians and worldly scholars. They are still growing.
For the critics and Transparent RUSH fans, take notice. As a fine wine gets only better with age, so the same to be said about RUSH.
Cheers to you, gentleman. Yet another Masterpiece to add to your mantel. Well deserved.
Free Music Review: If you don't like it yet, just wait a while. It'll come.
Hit: 5 Stars
Boy oh boy, did I HATE this album a couple months ago. I thought it was the most boring album in the history of Rush. I only liked The Big Money and Mystic Rhythms, all the rest was pointless filler... Then, something miraculous happened. I was just slapped in the face by the amazing bass lines, spacious atmosphere, and rich, BIG production of this album. This music doesn't pound your ears like Vapor Trails, Rush, or Fly By Night. It just fills them with tons (and I mean TONS) of sound. There are synth motifs, bass, drums, and cool guitar sounds melting into a huge mixture of goodness...
But, you probably don't hear it yet.
It'll come. Don't worry, almost everybody comes around and enjoys this album. Marathon is one of the best songs they've ever done, possibly in their top 3 (or at least in mine ;-)). In fact, this is tied with Signals as my favorite Rush album, though Hemispheres is beginning to creep up with them. This album is so good, it deserves a track-by-track review.
The Big Money - 10/10 - Come on, you can't deny it. This song is one of the most catchy that Rush has ever done. The video is a little disturbing (80's cheese), but the song itself is great!
Grand Designs - 9/10 - Some people love this song, but it's probably my least favorite on the album.... It's the only "human" track on here ;)
Manhattan Project - 10/10 - BIG production kicks in here. The rumbling synths and atmospheric guitar put you inside World War II. The lyrics really describe the Mannhattan Project like a first-hand experience written by some great writer.
Marathon - 50/10 - Once in a while, a band makes a song that defines their career or a period in their career.... Rush never made an album or song that defined their career, but this one defines Rush in the 80's. The bass is INSANE here, nice guitar solo, the coolest glockenspiel chromatic ever, and an EXTREMELY climatic ending that can actually bring tears of joy to your eyes make this one of the most perfect songs I've EVER heard. It also serves as an anti-depressant, and gives you a sort of high, without the chemical side-effects.
Territories - 10/10 - 2 lyrics in here define the message of this song: "They shoot without shame/In the name of a piece of dirt/For a change of accent/Or the color of your shirt/To better the pride that resides/In a citizen of the world..." and "The whole wide world/An endless universe/Yet we keep looking through the eyeglass in reverse..."
Middletown Dreams - 10/10 - It gives you HOPE. I don't know any other song that gives me hope... It doesn't give you a high like Marathon, but it evokes hope, which no other band has done for me.
Emotion Detector - 10/10 - One line in particular makes this song for me: "Sometimes our big splashes are just ripples in the pool..."
Mystic Rhythms - 12/10 - This hooked me to the album. Much like The Big Money, the song is catchy and so cool, but the video sucks. The video isn't included on the album, luckily :)
Overall: 10/10 - Don't start your Rush collection with this album... Start it with Permanent Waves, Moving Pictures, or Signals. This one will come as a surprise, and you may not like it at first, but your mind will change.
Free Music Review: Power Windows Marks The Last Truly Great Rush Album
Hit: 5 Stars
Power Windows is 80s Rush and it's filled with clever hooks and flowing synthisizers and alot of very cool tunes, but it marks the spot as the last truly great Rush album. Sure, Rush will continue on, and sure, they will continue to be one of my favorite bands of all time, but the albums going forward from here will all be flawed in one way or another. Coherent and cohessive, Power Windows fills me with a sense of wonder when I hear it. It was on this album's tour that I was afforded the chance to be in the very front row right under Geddy Lee and it was absolutely f*cking AWESOME! Here are the songs:
The Big Money - Yet another Rush signature song. This is excellent. Big money goes around the world. Geddy has more bass on here than on the previous two albums and it is great to listen to. We missed that. The grove created here absolutely rocks!
Grand Designs - A to B, different degrees.... Another song where Neil flexes his songwriting skills and keeps us in awe. Lyrically stunning. Alex gets such a good guitar sound on this album. Killer.
Manhattan Project - Another personal favorites. Written (obviously) about the Manhattan Project to create the nuclear bomb, this song is haunting. When Geddy sings: The pilot of Enola Gay flying out of the shockwave on that August day.... It gives me goosebumps. I love this song.
Marathon - Another great song. Rush pulled out all the stops on writing and recording this album. There sound is tight and precise. The lyrics are phenomenal. This is Rush at the height of their powers (again!!!!). Excellent.
Territories - An often over-looked gem. This song is very cool. A favorite. Alex wails here! Thw whole wide world's an endless universe, yet we keep looking through the eyeglass in reverse.... Tongue in cheek, yet very provacative in its message. Reminds me a little of Witch Hunt, lyrically. Great!!!!
Middletown Dreams - At first this song seems like its the weak spot on the album, but then it grows on you and you can't help but liking it. Musically stunning in its subtle nuances. Superior.
Emotion Detector - The sound that Rush achieved on Power Windows comes out on the tunes like Mystic Rhythms and Emotion Detector where the synths blend with Neil's drums to create depth. If there is a soft spot on Power Windows (and I'm very tempted to say that there isn't) it would be Emotion Detector, simply for the fact that it is missing that everlasting Rush hook. I can sing along to almost every Rush song before Roll The Bones and remember the lyrics, but I couldn't picture myself just sitting there singing Emotion Detector out of the blue. That make sense?
Mystic Rhythms - A great ending song to the last great Rush album. Everything flows here from the soaring keyboards to Neil's stacatto drumming. Brilliant. Another great Rush tune.
Overall, Power Windows is very strong, even after the efforts of Signals and Grace Under Pressure. They perfected their sound again and the result is a very tight, memorable album. Every song stands out on its own and that is a very hard thing to do.
Dig it!