Presto Album: A Deep Dive into the Underrated Gem of Rush’s Discography

The Presto album, released in 1989, often finds itself overshadowed by Rush’s more commercially successful and critically acclaimed works. However, this album holds a unique charm and showcases a band continuing to evolve and experiment with their sound. While it might not be everyone’s favorite, a closer look reveals a collection of intricately crafted songs that deserve a second listen. This article aims to delve into the nuances of the Presto album, exploring its production, songwriting, and overall place within Rush’s extensive discography.

The Context: Late 80s Rush

By 1989, Rush had already established themselves as a progressive rock powerhouse. Albums like 2112, Moving Pictures, and Signals had cemented their legacy. The band had also navigated the synth-heavy era of the mid-80s with albums like Grace Under Pressure and Power Windows. Presto album arrived at a pivotal point, as the band sought to balance their progressive roots with a more streamlined and accessible sound.

Production and Sound: A Terry Brown Departure

One of the most significant changes for the Presto album was the departure of longtime producer Terry Brown. Brown had been instrumental in shaping Rush’s sound for over a decade. His replacement, Rupert Hine, brought a different approach to the production, resulting in a cleaner and more polished sound. While some fans appreciate the clarity, others feel that it lacks the warmth and depth of Brown’s productions. The Presto album definitely has a distinct sonic character compared to its predecessors.

Track-by-Track Analysis: Exploring the Songs

Show Don’t Tell

The opening track, “Show Don’t Tell,” is a strong statement of intent. It’s a driving rocker with a memorable chorus and showcases Geddy Lee’s signature bass lines. Lyrically, the song tackles the theme of actions speaking louder than words. It’s a solid opener that sets the tone for the Presto album.

Chain Lightning

“Chain Lightning” is another energetic track with a catchy melody. Alex Lifeson’s guitar work shines here, with some interesting textures and effects. The song’s lyrics explore the concept of interconnectedness and the ripple effect of our actions.

Red Tide

“Red Tide” is a more atmospheric and introspective track. It features a slower tempo and a haunting melody. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of environmental destruction and the consequences of our actions. This is one of the deeper cuts on the Presto album.

Hand Over Fist

“Hand Over Fist” is a more straightforward rock song with a driving beat. It’s a fun and energetic track that’s perfect for driving. The lyrics are a bit more lighthearted than some of the other songs on the Presto album.

Available Light

“Available Light” is considered by many to be one of the highlights of the Presto album. It’s a beautiful and uplifting song with a soaring chorus. The lyrics offer a message of hope and resilience in the face of adversity. This track showcases Rush’s ability to write emotionally resonant songs.

Presto

The title track, “Presto,” is a complex and intricate instrumental piece. It showcases Rush’s musicianship and their ability to create dynamic and engaging music without vocals. It’s a highlight for many fans of the Presto album.

Superconductor

“Superconductor” is a more experimental track with a quirky rhythm and unusual instrumentation. It’s a bit of a departure from Rush’s typical sound, but it’s still an interesting and engaging song. The lyrics explore the concept of technological advancement and its potential impact on society.

Anagram (For Mongo)

“Anagram (For Mongo)” is a playful and lighthearted track that’s built around a series of anagrams. It’s a fun and quirky song that showcases Rush’s sense of humor. This is a unique addition to the Presto album.

Red Snakes

“Red Snakes” is a more aggressive and hard-rocking track. It features a driving beat and some powerful guitar riffs. The lyrics are a bit more cryptic than some of the other songs on the Presto album.

Scars

“Scars” is a percussive and experimental track that features some interesting sound effects and textures. It’s a bit of a departure from Rush’s typical sound, but it’s still an interesting and engaging song. The lyrics explore the theme of emotional wounds and the healing process. The unconventional nature of “Scars” makes it a standout track on the Presto album.

War Paint

“War Paint” is a powerful and thought-provoking song that explores the theme of conflict and the human cost of war. It features a soaring chorus and some emotionally resonant lyrics. This is one of the more serious and impactful songs on the Presto album.

The Pass

“The Pass” is a poignant and moving song that deals with the issue of suicide. It’s a beautifully written and performed song that showcases Rush’s ability to tackle difficult subjects with sensitivity and compassion. This is arguably the emotional centerpiece of the Presto album, and remains a fan favorite.

Lyrical Themes: Societal Commentary and Personal Reflection

Neil Peart’s lyrics on the Presto album cover a wide range of themes, from societal commentary to personal reflection. He explores issues such as environmental destruction, technological advancement, and the human cost of war. He also delves into more personal themes such as hope, resilience, and the importance of human connection. The lyrical depth of the Presto album adds another layer of complexity to the music.

Reception and Legacy: An Underrated Gem?

The Presto album received mixed reviews upon its release. Some critics praised its musicianship and songwriting, while others criticized its production and overall sound. Commercially, the album was successful, reaching the top 20 in both the United States and Canada. However, it has often been overshadowed by Rush’s more popular albums. Despite this, the Presto album has gained a cult following over the years, with many fans appreciating its unique charm and its willingness to experiment. It’s often considered an underrated gem in Rush’s discography. [See also: Rush Albums Ranked]

Conclusion: A Worthy Addition to the Rush Catalog

The Presto album may not be Rush’s most iconic or commercially successful album, but it’s a worthy addition to their extensive catalog. It showcases a band continuing to evolve and experiment with their sound, while still maintaining their signature musicianship and songwriting. Whether you’re a longtime Rush fan or a newcomer to their music, the Presto album is worth a listen. Give it a chance, and you might just discover a hidden gem.

Ultimately, the Presto album represents a specific moment in Rush’s history. It’s an album that deserves to be appreciated for its unique qualities and its contribution to the band’s overall legacy. The Presto album continues to be a subject of discussion and debate among Rush fans, further solidifying its place in the band’s history. Listening to the Presto album with an open mind allows for a richer appreciation of Rush’s artistic journey.