Rush

Snakes and Arrows - 2007

Snakes & Arrows is yet another gem from the hard rock / progressive group Rush. Their 18th studio album is brought via Atlantic Records UK and under the helm of well known producer producer Nick Raskulinecz (Foo Fighters, Velvet Revolver, Superdrag).

Like most albums delivered by Rush, Snakes and Arrows has generated a wide variety of often sharply-divided opinions, although the media reviews have been more positive this time.

Parts of the album are heavier than recent fare, while other parts are laced with acoustic influence. The album was written almost totally on acoustic, and guitarist Alex Lifeson uses acoustic instruments throughout. The underlying theme is a statement (screed?) against organized religion and religious extremism. "Dark" seems to be a common description, although there are plenty of Peart's staple dichotomies to ruminate over.

As usual, it's hard to place Snakes and Arrows into a specific genre, may that be hard or progressive rock. But most certainly it's Rush, with influences from their entire history surfacing with regularity, along with some fresh departures that prove Rush is always evolving.

Overall, Snakes & Arrows is a very solid effort. Long time Rush fans with eclectic tastes should find plenty to like here. Some folks will hate it. If you're looking for another 2112 or Hemispheres this ain't it, but if you want something that is fresh, thought-provoking, and most assuredly RUSH, then you should buy this release.

Track Listings

Far Cry (5:21)

Armor And Sword (6:36)

Workin' Them Angels (4:47)

The Larger Bowl (4:07)

Spindrift (5:24)

The Main Monkey Business (instrumental)(6:01)

The Way The Wind Blows (6:28)

Hope (instrumental 2:02)

Faithless (5:31)

Bravest Face (5:12)

Good News First (4:51)

Malignant Narcissism (instrumental 2:17)

We Hold On (4:13)

Line-up/Musicians

Geddy Lee / bass guitar, bass pedals, mellotron, vocals

Alex Lifeson / six & twelve string electric and acousitc guitars, mandola, mandolin, bouzouki

Neil Peart / drums, cymbals, electronic percussion, tambourine