Moving Pictures - Rush

It's finally come time for me to show some respect to Rush. As I'm sure you can tell, I really enjoy Dream Theater's work. However, with no Rush, there would be no DT. Many consider this band to be one of the most important influences on modern prog rock, and I'd have to say I agree. No album says "This is why I love Rush" better than Moving Pictures.
The first thing I want to mention about this album is its length. I think this album has to be near the top of the quality/time ratio scale. Weighing in at only 40 minutes, you'd never expect this album to be the prog heavyweight it is. The time has a lot to do with the fact that Rush was really one of the only prog bands getting a lot of radio play during the time period. Knowing this, the album's short playtime makes a lot more sense. It's filled with shorter songs for a casual prog listener.
First off is "Tom Sawyer". This is easily one of the band's most popular and well known tracks, and for good reason! The first thing I love about this song is the way it features Geddy Lee's vocals. The melodies are very simple, but will stick with you. Specifically, I love how the verse's melody is centered around one pitch, allowing for a lot of embellishment and emphasis on the later verses. Also, another thing I like to point out in this song is the idea of simple vs. complex. The guitar riff that runs through each verse is as simple as they come: sounding chords that linger through the vocals. However, the drums are often accenting here and there (as Peart is known to do). I've said it before, but it bears repeating: understanding instrumental focus is one of the best things a band can do to separate themselves from the rest.
"Red Barchetta" is more of a traditional symphonic prog tune. The lyrics follow a descriptive narrative, and as they change, so does the mood. The guitar sound is well chosen for different sections, as well. The melodic verse has a ringing, reverb-laden guitar, where as the faster, more energetic part has more distortion. Very tasteful and well done.
"YYZ" is an instrumental that I'm really glad to see has gained popularity with the rise of music gaming. As one of Rush's more progressive pieces, it's a true delight. Every time I listen to it, I focus on a different instrument (guitar, bass, and drums). Each has so much to offer here. I suggest you do the same.
"Limelight" has got a very radio-friendly feel to it, which is interesting, as it's got tons of time signature changes flying around. The syncopation makes this one really happen. Next time you listen, just check out how much is happening on and off the beat.
At 11 minutes (and taking up a quarter of the album!), "The Camera Eye" is the longest tune on Moving Pictures. Definitely check it out, though, as it's a wonderful progressive rock song. My favorite part of this one is how the sound paints the picture. With distorted guitar and soothing synth, you're taken on a ride.
The last two tracks are also very good, and in the same vein as most of Rush's music. If you enjoy any of the hits by this band, you owe it to yourself to dig just a bit deeper. Check out "The Camera Eye". If you're into that, I recommend another album called 2112. It's got that prog epic feel to it as well. I hope you guys enjoy this classic album as much as I do! Happy listening!

Free link to the album on Napster:
http://free.napster.com/view/album/index.html?id=10495733