While I consider Rush to have been in decline since Moving Pictures, that is not to say they were not still a potent band after that album. This album lacks some of the boldness and complexity of some of their previous music, but it still stands above most other contemporary efforts in terms of mature, sophisiticated sound. To compare to cheesy 80s bands such as Flock of Seagulls is just plain silly. Yes, there are some synthesizers, but can't we be just a tad less superficial? This is not hard, progressive rock musical genius such as can be found on Moving Pictures. Still, there are pleasures to be found here, although it took 3 or 4 listens before I really started to groove on the subtle melodies and chord progressions. Only Big Money is a radio-style hit, but I assure you this is better than some of their later mush.