10 Greatest Hard Rock Album Openers

Before the 80's had even begun, Rush had covered more artistic ground than most bands could have dreamed about. After almost a decade of prog rock excellence under their belt, this power trio were still innovating their sound as they reached the age of synthesizers. Though the band were still being influenced by the sounds of new wave, the beginning of Moving Pictures gave them their greatest hit yet.

Starting with one of the buzziest synths on a hard rock record, "Tom Sawyer" is the perfect amalgamation of everything that makes Rush's music fantastic. From the complex riff work to the ever-changing sonic arrangements, the band are able to pack what feels like a lifelong journey into just a few minutes. The lyrics from Neil Peart are also fantastic, as they tell a story of the ideal outcast who never cowers to the wills of authority figures above him.

Aside from the more complex stuff, Alex Lifeson's solo on this track is one of his best, as he tears apart his fretboard with an intensity that rivals many metal guitarists. Also, you're absolutely lying to yourself if you say you don't airdrum the drum break in the middle of the tune. Rush were always looking for a different angle, but with "Tom Sawyer," they proved that after 7 years, they were still miles ahead of their contemporaries.