I'm a huge Rush fan (the Canadian band, not the radio blowhard), so I've just bought and listened to their new album, "Snakes and Arrows".
It's definitely more of the same; Rush stopped trying to prove anything to anyone decades ago.
Pros: All of Peart's educated, smart, thoughtful lyrics are there. All three musicians still practically define "precision". The album is cohesive, with a central theme, and powerful visuals to accompany each song.
Cons: It's a dark theme, full of laments for the state of the world. Songs of hope aren't about breaking through, but about weathering the storm and keeping your head up. Oh, and Rush still has a strong allergy to hooks.
I don't know how I feel about it yet, I just bought it.
