Expert: Dan Lamb - 7/10/2002

Question
I was a little disappointed with Neil's drumming on the new album, but pleased to have him back in front of the kit!  I really miss his work during the 70's and early 80's.  What are your thoughts of his work on the new album, as well as the album in general?  Overall, I feel that it's their best release since Power Windows.

Answer
Hello Mike, and thanks for the question!

As far as his drumming on the new album:  it seems we are hearing a different side to Neil.  And if you look back to the last 3 albums,  they have that same feel to it.  His style has kindled out since the 70's or 80's  I'm not saying he doesn't "have it" anymore, his personal style has changed, as we all change as we get older.  I was really surprised to hear the double bass intro to the album.  The band even said they never doubted that would be the first song on the new album, kind of a "we're baaaack!"  after their 5 year break.  

The time of a break brings another quality issue.  The guys have had a long time off, and mostly due to Neil's tragedy, he just didn't feel like playing.  On Test For Echo, he had picked up the "traditional style" playing, but I noticed at the concert, that on the new songs were played using the "match grip."   

On this album, especially, I've noticed his focus on his cymbals.  It seems he lets his cymbals sing more, Examples are: Ghost Rider, How it is, & Vapor Trail.  Of course he uses everything else as Neil should do.  I love the little tom shuffle at the beginning of Nocturne.

I really have enjoyed this album, it's been an eye opener from the band.  When I heard it I already liked it better than Test For Echo.  I think they have put together a great collection of songs, that have their own style.  Seems like a "Darker" Rush, Vapor Trail is just a great song.  I think it's more of a traditional Rush song.  These new songs have more of a  "Red Barchetta" sound to it.  "Red" has a lot of changes in it, as with these new one too!

I do agree with you it is their best work, since Power Windows, altough I do like Presto, as I'm probably the only one.

Hey Mike, sorry about the book!  
Thanks for writing!
Dan Lamb