This is where Rush became a household (albeit a rock household) name. At this point, the band were also leaving their prog fan base scratching their heads wondering if Rush had finally sold out to the American dollar. Well, if Permanent Waves was a step away from their progressive leanings, then Moving Pictures was even a few more steps away. Although the musicianship of Lee, Lifeson, and Peart was never in question, this record was more about the song and not how well they could play their instruments. Moving Pictures has the feeling of being effortless. It doesn’t require as much thought as 2112 or Hemispheres. Those were “deep” albums that made you think or took you to another place and time whereas Moving Pictures was just a collection of great tunes that made you sit back, relax, and enjoy. Each cut is just the right length and there does not seem to be a note out of place. Peart’s lyrics again follow in the footsteps of Permanent Waves by focusing more on the human being and not sci-fi imagery. Even the mix and production has held up well through the years without really sounding dated. Although this may not be everyone’s favorite Rush release, it does stand as the apex of the popularity. You can’t argue that fact when half the album still gets played during their live shows.

This review is available in book format (hardcover and paperback) in Music Street Journal: 2007 Volume 3 at lulu.com/strangesound.