The album Signals marked Rush's foray into the techno-oriented 1980s, via the increased use of electronic instrumentation (keyboards, violin). Drifting farther away from their hallmark extended instrumentals, the band turned out a rather "industry standard" eight songs, the longest of which is 6:24. In essence, because of this, many people felt a lot of Rush's 'soul' was missing on "Signals," but nevertheless, the album is a strong one with an all-around up-tempo feel.
One factor many people tend to overlook in their opinions of this album is the incorporation of some then "new" varied Caribbean influences such as Reggae, Ska, & Calypso, a la another prevalent '80s trio: 'The Police'.
Close scrutiny of the album's inner artwork (e.g., the "Blueprint") reveals not only their intent to maintain continuity within certain musical & lyrical themes, but also their self-depracating sense of humour.
The stronger tracks include "Subdivisions*," which explores the adolescent misfit subculture which so many of the band's followers have endured; "Digital Man*," a fast-paced rocker that showcases bassist Geddy Lee's incredible mastery of both his instrument and its rightful place in the rock genre; "New World Man*," an FM-radio staple, and "Countdown," a sublime example of lyricist Neil Peart's descriptive liguistics derived from his many literary influences: "venting vapours like the breath of a sleeping white dragon...", as he recounts the launch of the Space Shuttle 'Columbia' in 1981.
- Note: Along with "Analog Kid" supplement / compliment "Tom Sawyer" as essentially autobiographical materials...
Track Listing
- "Subdivisions"
- "The Analog Kid"
- "Chemistry"
- "Digital Man"
- "The Weapon"
- "New World Man"
- "Losing It"
- "Countdown"