"Slick songs with an edge."
It bewilders me that people say the songs here sound identical to their studio versions. I couldn't disagree more. In most cases, I think the performances on A Show of Hands catch fire, injecting considerably more energy than was present on the studio renditions. Though not quite the unadulterated intensity of All the World's a Stage, due to some glossing with overdubs and some added maturity, A Show of Hands is still exciting and emotionally charged. Take, for instance, "Subdivisions," a song whose energy breaches the ceiling with a crunchier presence of Lifeson's guitars, fiery drumming, and Geddy's passionate delivery. Actually, on each song here Lifeson's guitars have a bigger presence than the studio versions. That alone boosts the intensity level. Yes, the incidence of overdubs detracts strongly from the imperative, genuine live feel, but I'd still say there's more than enough energy to compensate. "Marathon," one of my favorite Rush songs, never gave me more goose bumps (that final chorus just soars!). "Closer to the Heart," a requisite concert staple, gets a new jam tagged onto the end, and it's a strong conclusion to a strong live album. Sprinkled throughout are songs that showcase the lighter, melodic side of the band. "Time Stands Still" and "Mystic Rhythms" sound infinitely better here than on the studio versions, thanks to a powerful, emotional performance. Peart's drum solo "The Rhythm Method" is sure to have a few jaws hitting the floor. The man is the master! If you didn't like Rush's "synthesizer era," don't buy this unless you're a completist. But if you do like those albums, definitely get this one.
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