Rush: Permanent Waves e7

"Permanent Waves" is the seventh studio album by the Canadian rock band Rush, released in January 1980. It marked a significant shift in the band's musical style, moving away from their earlier, more complex progressive rock sound towards a more streamlined and accessible approach. The album's cover art, created by artist Hugh Syme, reflects this change, featuring a striking image of a wave frozen in mid-air, capturing the album's title and the idea of change and movement.
Musically, "Permanent Waves" is a landmark album for Rush. It features a more concise and focused songwriting style, with shorter songs that are more radio-friendly than their previous epic compositions. The album opens with "The Spirit of Radio," a dynamic and energetic track that showcases the band's musical prowess and incorporates elements of reggae and new wave music. The song's lyrics also reflect the band's growing disillusionment with the music industry and the commercialization of music.
Another standout track on the album is "Freewill," which features thought-provoking lyrics about the nature of free will and destiny, set against a backdrop of intricate musical arrangements. The song is a perfect example of Rush's ability to combine complex musical ideas with accessible melodies and hooks.
One of the most notable aspects of "Permanent Waves" is the inclusion of the epic track "Natural Science." Clocking in at over nine minutes, the song is divided into three distinct sections and showcases the band's progressive rock roots. It features complex time signatures, intricate instrumental passages, and thought-provoking lyrics about the relationship between nature and technology.
The album's closing track, "Different Strings," is a departure from the rest of the album's sound, featuring a more subdued and introspective mood. The song features acoustic guitars and keyboards, giving it a more intimate and personal feel compared to the rest of the album.
Overall, "Permanent Waves" is a landmark album in Rush's discography. It marked a significant evolution in the band's sound and style, paving the way for their later, more commercially successful albums. The album's blend of complex musical arrangements, thought-provoking lyrics, and accessible melodies make it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with listeners to this day.