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NFL's Devasting Hit Rule
As most of you know, the NFL will now begin suspending players for "devastating" hits. I personally find the rule to be ridiculous but I'm curious to know what others think about it. I understand that the NFL is trying to minimize the player's chances of receiving a crippling hit, but this is football, and it's a violent sport. If people don't want to take the chance of getting hurt then don't put on the pads and play. No one is forcing these grown men into playing the game. It's already gotten so bad that they might as well put a dress on the QB with all of the rules safeguarding them. What's next, flag football?
Please discuss. Is This New NFL "Devastating Hits" Rule Enforceable? Written by Michael Felder Tuesday, 19 October 2010 14:12 The NFL as you've surely heard by now, is going to take a major step in discipline by suspending players involved in "devastating hits." Normally we stick to our stomping grounds of college football but given both college football's mirroring of the NFL in recent rule changes and our on going dialogue with regards to concussions we felt this would be a good spot to offer some thoughts on the situation. Especially should we see this trickle down into the college game in the coming years. People, as is so often the case, are skewed too polar on this issue. Team This is Wussification is screaming that this will ruin the game while team Get Serious about Safety wants to outlaw hitting folks and change the nature of the game all together. The truth lies somewhere in the middle. Personally, my opposition of the rule is to the vague verbiage and the addition of more judgement calls into the sport. Referees have enough on their plate now, adding more 50-50 subjective calls only creates more chance for them to make a crucial mistake. Hochuli That said something has to be done; players have to be protected from themselves and if this is the path that the NFL is taking they need to do it right and that, as it stands now seems impossible. There are a myriad of variables in every "devastating hit" scenario and for this plan to be successful they must attempt to identify these constantly changing aspects in order to pare them down to the minimum observations. Too many variables crowds the pool and makes for ineffective enforcement. Read more for what variables make enforcement difficult... So Many Variables? While I'm sure folks could point to plenty of scientific formulas and other minutia that are way above my comprehension level I'm going to stick to football in this discussion and a few variables that I know and understand very well; physical attributes, body positioning and effect. Originally I was only referencing size when I thought about physical attributes, however, speed and strength belong in that category as well since a player such as James Harrison, who is only listed at 6' 242 lbs, packs a wallop due to his pure power. Physical Attributes must be brought into account when you begin this discussion because the rule, as it has been discussed, sure places a lot of importance on "how a hit looks" to folks. We'll start with the Dunta Robinson hit from this past weekend on DeSean "I weigh 175 lbs soak and wet" Jackson. It was a punishing blow, didn't appear dirty to me, but it was a quite "devastating" hit by all accounts. However, had Robinson unloaded in that same fashion on his former team Andre Johnson (6'3" 228lbs) perhaps the Texans' wide out gets up, looks at Robinson laying knocked out himself, but continues playing in that football game. In the case of James Harrison's blow on Mohamed Massaquoi (6'2" 204lbs) if we substitute the WR for a Brandon Jacobs (6'4" 264lbs) and does anyone's view of the situation change? The point here is two-fold. First is the simple acknowledgment that size does have a bearing on our views of the severity of a hit but in reality the type of hit shouldn't be altered due to size. A hit coming with bad intentions and against the rules is a hit against the rules regardless of what it looks like due to size disparities. In other words players are taught to hit every player as hard as they can. Whether Harrison or Robinson are hitting a tight end, a 3rd down scatback or a wide receiver they're going to go full tilt, size discrepancy just makes it ugly. Which brings us to the second point of the size issue, if the way plays look and the "devastating" nature of seeing smaller offensive players be destroyed is where the issue you lies the rule is essentially asking safeties, corners, linebackers and defensive linemen to "size players up" before they make their tackles. Determining if another player is "too small" for them to hit acceptably or if a guy is "big enough" for them to truly unload on through contact. Asking guys to dial down speed at impact is, worst case scenario, asking for them to get hurt and best case scenario putting defenses at a severe disadvantage; see Mathias Kiwanuka on Vince Young when the NFL went uber-protective of quarterbacks. Size is a major component of what makes a hit appear to be "devastating" but body positioning is as well. No one cringes or freaks out over a running back and a linebacker meeting face to face in the A-gap. No one goes ape over a defensive end slamming into a guard after a stunt. No, those "ooohs" and "ahhhs" are reserved for the high flying acrobatics that almost always occur down the field or crossing the middle. So much of this issue is being blamed on the defensive players "launching" themselves at the ball carrier. The idea of guys going for the kill shot or leaping to make a play on the receiver in the air. While I don't condone the use of the crown of the helmet, that's where spinal injuries come from, I do think there's a difference between diving and jumping to separate man from ball and the generic term of launching. Meriweather Lumping them all in does a disservice to the defense. Is a safety getting off the hash a step too late diving to make a play considered launching? Should he just let the receiver catch the football since he can't run up to bat the ball down in time? Is a linebacker jumping to hit a crossing tight end on a high thrown ball launching? Should he let him catch it and land so as not to leave his feet? As a defensive back I was taught two things that are in direct disconnect with this idea; separate man from ball AND if he does catch it make him think twice about doing it again. If you're letting guys land or not allowed to dive to collision a receiver at the moment the ball hits his hands how can you get those two objectives accomplished? Without even taking into account falling and ducking by the offensive or defensive parties it is pretty clear the NFL is going to have their hands full with this aspect of the rule. Where does the "good football play" end and the "devastating hit" sequence begin? The last variable is one that appears to have the biggest influence on the NFL and fans in general; effect. For this rule to work they must not legislate based upon size, they will struggle to determine malicious vs good football in body positioning but most importantly they cannot allow effect to dictate their rulings. For the implementation of this rule a hit can be no more violent because Player A is knocked out while in same situation Player B pops up off the turf. While effects vary the nature of the hit and delivery of the blow does not change. In an effort to draw a parallel; horse collar tackles were outlawed due to the numerous knee, lower leg and ankle injuries people were sustaining. In that same vein helmet to helmet contact and spearing have been banned due to spinal injuries as well as head and neck trauma. The penalty for the horse collar tackle doesn't escalate during a game if a player breaks his ankle, it is still a personal foul 15 yard penalty from the spot. So too should the penalty for a malicious helmet to helmet collision remain the same regardless of if the hit player gets up and continues playing the game or is carted off the field. The fact is there is so much gray, too much gray it seems. Even with all of the replays, the multiple and reverse angles, the super slow motion and the high definition every case is going to be examined through 100 different lenses. What one person sees as a clearly malicious shot by a safety on a streak route another person is going to call good football. What one review official thinks is a poor attempt at a tackle another review official is going to see as a "message sent" to the opposition that the middle of the field is closed for business. With the NFL moving in this direction let's just hope that they've got a strong committee making these rulings. A group of people who've got experience in the game; on both sides of the ball, in the locker room, field and front office because these suspensions are going to be critical for teams pushing for playoff positioning or jockeying for the final wildcard slot. And should we see this trickle down into the college game let's hope our conference commissioners are already looking into how to make this work. |
Having never played the game passed the simple high school level, I can only speak to what I see.
The small levels of football I did play it wiuld be hard to follow the rules they are trying to impliment. I don't have an answer. My gut tells me that if you can't handle the heat, stay out of the kitchen. But my brain asks the question "When do we finally become ancient Rome?" The head to head rule is a good rule if it were judged correctly. Fact is the head is on top of our shoulders. Our eyes are in our head. You can't hit with only the shoulder all the time when you have a big ass helmet on top. Usually the defender curls and the helmet to helmet is a result. If the safety, CB or LB tries to judge the offensive players intention, he will miss a lot of tackles and be replaced. So then you get what I call the dumbest winner. The guy who is more willing to take the chance, wins. Like that honda accord on the interstate who wants you to race. He is willing to do 100 MPH in a 65 zone to win. You are not. So he wins. He can afford to, or is willing, to get caught. So, he usually wins. Now you have REAL headhunters out there on Sunday. The scrupulous players won't take the chance, and the dummies will. IMO, you create an even greater risk. I got no answer. But I know they better step in before the union or the Gov. does. |
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Not only will it affect some players tackling efficiency but it will reduce the turnovers some defenders once forced. Some defenders sole reason for a bone crushing hit is it jar the ball loose. It will be interesting to see how it changes things. You made some good points Randy. There are those players who seem to take great pleasure in headhunting. Those players will be dealt a harsher punishment than those who aren't repeat offenders. Harrison from the Steelers comes to mind. |
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See this really bothers me. Doesn't this seem like a bit of knee jerk reaction to a bad weekend? it does to me. Decisions, of any kind, should never be made in the heat of the moment if that can be avoided. Wait until the offseason to make major rule changes like this so that cooler heads, reasoning, and research can prevail over rhetoric and unsubstantiated fear.
Not too long ago there were some serious talks in the Boxing world about requiring head gear for boxers or outlawing punches to the head altogether because a couple boxer's died in freak incidents. Luckliy, cooler heads prevailed and no hasty, stupid decisions were made. Now for a more subjective take... One major change i can see this rule making, in addition to the aforementioned "wussification of the game" (and america in my opinion) is that this will really help out offenses around the league and encourage more passing. This is of course what the NFL has been trying to do for years and is/has been encouraging non stop. |
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I agree with that absolutely. But i think it would decrease parity by helping out teams who have strong passing offenses and good quarterbacks. The NFL has already bent over for strong QB/Passing teams, this will only help them more.
the NFL is ruining the NFL, all these new rules are going to just ruin the game, let them play football the way is was supposed to be played, the hits they should eliminate are the ones like the Patriots Merriweather put on Todd Heap, that was a lousy cheap shot the way he launched himself helmet first.
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The league is catering more to an offensive style game than defensive.
Going to be interesting. They were saying they will have to teach the players to hit lower instead of the chest area. I understandy what they are trying to do but at the same time I hope they do not take away from the sport we have always loved.
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I'm a traditionalist, and miss the days before the BCS when the Rose Bowl was Big 10 vs. Pac 10. Now it's all about the money. I loved the bowl system of the past, and didn't feel the overwhelming need to have a definitive #1 team. That's what Professional sports are for. As far as the topic of this thread, I played Strong Safety, and was taught to hit people coming across the middle. Hard. Seperate from the ball. I never speared or led with my head, but my goal was to knock the crap out of the receiver. I don't think that should change.
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I'm not 100% sure what this new rule is. I was under the assumption that it was just a rule against leading with the helmet. Which has been a rule for a very long time. It just wasn't enforsed that much, and only until recently we've been seeing more and more head-to-head hits. Which shows signs of poor technique in the first place. I've played football from 6th grade until my senior year. Played on both sides of the ball, and I can tell you that there is absolutely no reason for anyone to hit with top of their helmet, or "spearing".
I was always taught that you want the screws on the top of the facemask to be on the ball when tackling, and to wrap up the ball carrier. It's all about fundamentals and tackling the ball carrier, rather than trying to just punish him by hitting him in the head. I really don't see anything really changing, other than less helmet-to-helmet collisions. I think the NFL is being more stern about a very serious situation, and the media is blowing it way out of proportion.
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Here is another good article I read pertaining to the subject. Some say it won't affect the game, and it may not, but I still believe it will have some defensive players reevaluating how they engage an opponent and where they should hit them. That split second of "thinking" about the tackle could be the difference in a tackle for a loss and a missed tackle.
NFL Set to Review Rule On 'Devastating Hits': How Big Is Too Big? By Colin Bennett on October 19, 2010 Everyone loves a big hit. Except, it would seem, the NFL. After an off-season that featured a detailed discussion about brain injury and long term effects on player's health resulting from head-to-head collisions, NFL executive Ray Anderson told ESPN, "We are trying to get our players to not initiate contact on defenseless players including defenseless receivers to the head or neck area with the forearm the shoulder or the helmet. We're trying to get that out of the game." This came as a more immediate reaction to the rash of concussed players throughout the regular season thus far. The rule on unnecessary roughness—especially the sections pertaining to defenseless players—will most likely be enforced with steeper fines and possibly suspensions. The announcement has sparked a deep debate amongst current and former NFL players, physicians, coaches, broadcasters and fans. Some see it as a necessary step towards keeping players safer and healthier throughout their careers. Others think it is an example of NFL executives overstepping their boundaries with excessive legislation. Facts are facts: head-to-head shots are dangerous and can have lingering, life changing effects on everyone involved. There are numerous stories of NFL alumni who have been effected by this type of injury both during their career, and suffered side effects after retirement. So the question of physical safety should not be a piece of the argument, and I would not posit that anyone has downplayed that aspect of the rule change. There are, however, certain aspects of the announcement that have people confused. Ray Anderson initially used the term 'devastating' to describe some of the tackles and hits the NFL was looking to get to rid of. No one is quite sure what the on-field definition of 'devastating' is, including—I imagine—Ray Anderson. This rather vague description has many people rightfully confused and concerned that some of the excitement of football is set to be legislated out of the game. I believe this will not be the case. The NFL owes a great deal of its success to adaptability. The league has always been very good at allowing new rules to come forward, and making a dedicated effort to figure out how they can be fit in to the game and phased out if they are not working. Look at instant replay and the shove-out rule. One rule worked, and has stayed; the other is gone. The game constantly moves forward, and when the official announcement on helmet-to-helmet shots come forward, I believe it will continue in that fashion. That is not to say that there are not concerns. The fact of the matter is, you cannot coach physics. These NFL players today are built like thoroughbreds, and when they start moving, I can imagine it's fairly hard to stop. So the idea that devices beyond their control—momentum and inertia—will cause players to sit games, is suspect to me. Hopefully, the emphasis will be put on flagrant and intentional penalties of this nature. Furthermore—and I am not one to casually throw out the role model argument—changing this rule will hopefully have a trickle down effect into lower forms of football. Being on both ends of 'devastating hits' in my less-than-illustrious football career, I can say that no one wants to be clocked in the helmet when they aren't expecting it. Changing this rule in the professional level could begin to change the culture of the big hit. When high school and college players go for the highlight hit, dangerous things can and do happen. There is simply no argument that can be sensibly made in favor of hits like this when children and young adults are concerned. Young players look to professionals to see how the game is played, and this is one aspect of the game that should not be emphasized. The NFL has a right to protect their investment. The League depends on high caliber players to continue to stay atop the professional sports world. So putting a rule in place like this is ensuring a higher standard of play for a longer period of time. People may say that 'this is the way the game is played' or 'they know what they are signing up for', and they are correct. But football also used to be played with no helmets and no forward pass. And it is true that NFL players know the risks of the game, but when that inevitable end point reaches an NFL field—a player dies as a result of a jarring hit—would you still say the same things if there was no effort made to prevent it? |
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^great read. thanks!
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I'm not a fan of the BCS but im not in favor of a playoff system either. What i really liked was the old system! Back when new years day really meant a lot. |
Nah..... BCS is what brought me back to college football. (didn't hurt that OU got good again. lol) College football has grown more than EVER since the BCS came in. And it's been pretty good to OU..... But bot......... It will be interesting to see what happens from here out. I guess if you can't find QBs that can play, then just make it easier for them. |
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I don't get it. The players that hit/get hit the hardest are the ones making the most money. Call it hazard pay and be done with it.
I know it's not the players who are really all that concerned with the hits, it's the players UNION. The union has run out of legitimate issues, so now they're going to complain about anything and everything just to remain a relevant institution. While I fully expect that the protective equipment these guys wear to play the game will continue to get better at protecting what it's supposed to over time, the new rules they're implementing or the old rules they're now going to harshly enforce are ruining the aspect of the game that makes it a real man's game. Does the NFL want the game of football to end up like soccer and have people flopping all over the place? This is just rediculous.
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OK here goes my opinion on the two topics. NFL Hits and BCS
First is the hits. It seems like a little common sense should be used. Everyone knows what they are looking at. The hits that it seems they are trying to alleviate are the "un-called for" hit. You know they ones, the ones where someone is set up to take a big shot, receiver laid out, guy running across the middle etc...... BUT I Pose this question for thought and discussion. What about special teams? We have all seen where a runner reverses his field of running and seen these " BLOCKS'' that de-cleated the defender. Is this OK? Is it ok because the guy doing the damage is on offense? Look a couple of week back when Andrew Luck, a QB, laid out a defender after he had thrown an interception, basically he hit him straight up but laid him out. This same hit would have gotten a flag if it would have been done to him. I know that is college but the same pricipal. Look at a couple of years back when Kurt Warner got demolished after he threw a pick, really a cheap shot but nothing happened to the person who laid him out. We have all seen the hits the NFL is talking about, the ones where the person leaves their feet and acts like a missle, launching with their heads, un-called for shot, if you will. If they would worry more about steroids this would slowly decrease this issue , why you ask. Look at these guys 6'5", 265 lbs and runs a 4.4 forty and can lift a building. Now to the wonderful BCS. Being a fan of the last team to win the BCS, the 2009 BCS National Champion Alabama Crimson Tide, I do not like the BCS and here is why. Boise State and TCU. The media is in love with these two teams and trying their best to put them in the BCS Title game. Their votes are reflecting it, ESPN is advertising basically for these teams and that is a joke. There is no way under God's green earth that Boise St, TCU, Utah etc... could play a schedule that is consistent with the SEC, Big 12, Pac-10, Big 10, probably the ACC and Big East and contend. Look at these conferences they usually play at least 6 to 8 conference games. BS, TCU, Utah could not play week in and week out in any of the conferences and WIN. Let's take a few of the conferences. I'll take my beloved SEC. Everyone claims that the SEC has BAD Teams and they always bring up Vandy, Kentucky, Miss State to name a few. I will bring up Alabama, Auburn, LSU, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina. Alabama lost to SC, Kentucky beat SC, Florida housed Kentucky, Alabama housed Florida. LSU beat Florida but baely beat Tennessee. Week in week out every team in the SEC has a real chance to lose because of the level of play. Take the Big 12. Oklahoma, Texas, Nebraska, Texas Tech etc... None of these teams , Utah, Boise, TCU could survive this type of scheduling and be consistently good, or undefeated. Look at Alabama. Alabama has had some of the best recruiting classes in the past few years. They are talented beyond belief, they have a great coach, excellent facilities, depth and they still lost a game. Sure they were undefeated last year, but that was one year. Take Florida with Tebow, Look a Texas with Colt McCoy, Auburn with Cam Newton, Alabama with Ingram and Richardson, Oklahoma with Bradford, all great team, all have had great seasons, but very few, one, was undeafeated. Why ? Because of the leagues they play in. This does not even take into consideration the Pac-10, USC, Oregon, Cal, Stanford or in the East Miami, Florida State, WV, Wisconsion, Ohio State the lsit could go on and on. Look at Boise's schedule they played a mediocre team in Virginia Tech and barely won, imagine if the next 11 weeks they played 7 other top teams. Undeafeated , I think not. The BCS is trying to give the NC to Boise because of one football game 4 or 5 years ago when they beat Oklahoma. Yes they won, but look at history. Alabama got smoked by Utah and that team went on the win the BCS the following year, does that mean Utah would have won it. NOT, same thing with Boise just because they beat Oklahoma once means nothing. I am actually hoping that Boise State makes it to the Title game and plays either Alabama, Auburn, LSU, Oklahoma, Oregon I believe people are sick and tired of hearing about Boise and want to see them get stomped so all this will go away. Boise could not hang with either of these teams. Once every 5 years or so does not make them a great team. The only way I will publically support Boise St is if they solicate the SEC, Pac 10, Big 12 to play and gets turned down. People always say that no one wants to play Boise St, which partly is true because people don't want to go to Boise and play. Why? Because of money, Boise hold what 35000. Alabama holds 100000, Texas holds what 90000 ( unsure about that ) but alot more than 35000 or so. There is no financial benefit to play a team like that away. If Boise seriously wants to be considered then they should have the same mentality as Fresno St, Anyone Anywhere Anytime. Start scheduling an Alabama, Auburn, Oklahoma, Texas, Michigan, Ohio State etc.....play the big boys and either have success or shut up already but you can not play one top 25 team a year and be considered for a National Championship. Even if the was a playoff with 8 team or 16 teams. At a minimum they would have to play 3 top teir teams. Does anyone think the would win. I think Not. My final point about this is look at Alabama last year. They did have a play off system. They played a real game Auburn team, played a team in Florida with Tebow, that everyone in the nation thought was the best team, maybe ever and then played a Texas Team witha starting QB that was what 45-2. He did get hurt and who knows how that comes out but the point is Boise could not have run that gauntlet and won. JMHO
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If a player is possibly going to get a stiff fine or suspension if the player they are hitting lowers their head at the last moment...players are just going to lower the strike zone. More than a few NFLers have said they would rather be foggy for a day or two than have their knee decimated. Makes alot of sense.
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Darrell K Royal - Texas Memorial Stadium supposedly has a seating capacity of 100,119. But they managed to pack in 101,437 people for the Texas-UCLA game this season.
The BCS is a slobbering love-fest between those who can vote and the big schools around the country. But, this thread is about the NFL "devastating hit" rule, so I won't get into the BCS rant like someone above me did I fully agree that there are some collisions that are simply uncalled for and players should be dealt with harshly. But I think the NFL is going just a little too far past what's necessary in this situation. Football is a collision sport. There are going to be some big collisions because there are some big dudes out there. That's why everyone watches the game. We don't watch it to see guys get hurt, but we sure as heck don't watch it to see a bunch of cupcakes running around either. I liken it to why people watch NASCAR. They're not really interested in seeing a car make left turns all day, they're watching it for the wrecks. They don't want to see anyone get hurt, but the wrecks sure are spectacular. The players get paid millions of dollars because the collisions that occur out on the field are part of the entertainment value of football. Sure a lot of us enjoy the strategy of the game as well, but the collisions are what make the game authentic. Without that, we're just watch the WWE with a ball... oh wait, that was tried...
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I also agree with what rmpackers posted about the league needs to use common sense when trying to enforce this rule. I really am curious to see how this affects the way defenders approach the game. |
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Hopefully this will cause Harrison to second guess himself and misses a few tackles this weekend.
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I am enjoying this thread. It must be difficult to find the middle ground that encourages good hard play, but at the same time protects the players from themselves. Some of the old retired players are now devastated with different problems because of concussions they had in their 20's and 30's. The NFL and NFLPA have correctly decided they can't willingly let people cause long term damage to their melon. Maybe Coach Ditka has it right, change the helmet so that it doesn't allow players to take those kind of shots.
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["athlete","athletic","balance","cold","common","countryside","couple","cross-country skiing","energy","equilibrium","female","fitness","floor","fun","glide","grown-up","hint","live","make an effort","man","move","natural","nature","nordic","persistence","person","recreation","sk8","smile","smiling","snow","sunny","training","winter","winter sports","wintery","woman"]
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Property for sale in Astbury
4 bed detached house for sale
Meadowfield Cresent, Astbury, Congleton, Cheshire CW12Located on the edge of the highly desirable and much sought after village of Astbury and backing almost directly onto the picturesque Astbury Mere Water Park with its stunning lakeside walks sits this recently constructed detached family home. ... More details
- Congleton (1.7 miles)
- Kidsgrove (5.4 miles)
Note: Distances are straight line measurementsMarketed by Whittaker & Biggs, CW12. Call 01260 221120
£825,0004 bed detached house for sale
Astbury Marsh, Astbury, Congleton CW12A magnificent individually built executive detached home set in the village of Astbury, which is a stones throw from Congleton town. Internally this home is presented in an immaculate condition, high specification can found throughout, no expense has ... More details
- Congleton (1.7 miles)
- Kidsgrove (4.7 miles)
Note: Distances are straight line measurementsMarketed by Butters John Bee, CW12. Call 01260 221187
Offers over £600,0004 bed property for sale
Moreton Cottages, Astbury, Congleton, Cheshire CW12*** no chain *** A stunning, unique substantial cottage with a separate annexe, which has been upgraded and updated by the current owners using quality materials throughout. (contd...) More details
- Congleton (2.6 miles)
- Kidsgrove (3.9 miles)
Note: Distances are straight line measurementsMarketed by Bridgfords - Sandbach, CW11. Call 01270 306016
Latest Astbury property for sale
Zoopla is one of the UK's leading property portals, helping you to find property for sale and to rent and make smarter decisions when buying and renting homes in the UK. Discover information on homes in Astbury by researching Astbury property values, Astbury house prices paid, our Astbury property market overview and find Astbury agents.


text:
looking to buy a tower for my moomba kanga. Preferrably one made by moomba. Live in upstate New York.
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Thread: Wanted to buy: tower for kanga
03-31-2005, 01:50 PM #1Junior Member
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Wanted to buy: tower for kanga
04-02-2005, 02:03 PM #2Member
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Replying to Topic 'Wanted to buy: tower for kanga'
There is a company called new dimension towers. I believe they use to make the towers for supra and moomba. There website is there name. Take a look at it. They have pictures of there towers on differrent boats.including yours.
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By Bryan Chavez
Using ingredients sourced from France is just one of the ways Mimi's Cafe stays connected to its roots. From tangy orange zest to creamy goat cheese, Mimi's menu is full of French-inspired ingredients and dishes, set against a French cottage-themed backdrop. Dining there is like taking a break in the French countryside. Through Sunday, Dec. 21, get a FREE breakfast, lunch or dinner entree at Mimi's Cafe with the purchase of a second entree (of equal or greater value) and two beverages. The discounted dish requires this printable coupon. The coupon is not valid with any other offer or discount. One coupon per check — dine-in only. For locations, click here.
Copyright Living on the Cheap. The post BOGO free entree at Mimi's Cafe appeared first on Living On The Cheap.


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Designed for use on professional tours, in stadiums, concert halls, houses of worship and other demanding audio environments, Audio-Technica's dual-receiver Artist Elite® 5000 Series provides incredible audio quality and proven, critically acclaimed performance for artists, broadcasters and presenters worldwide. The newly upgraded 5000 Series sets standards for wireless live sound, with its dual-compander circuitry that processes high and low frequencies separately. It also features A-T's proprietary IntelliScan™ capability, 996-channel frequency agility, True Diversity operation, soft-touch controls, digital Tone Lock™ squelch,…
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QLX-Dâ"¢ Digital Wireless System offers clearly defined performance and streamlined operation to users seeking premium sound for mid-tier events and installations, including corporate facilities, academic institutions, worship facilities, hotels, music venues and more. Setting QLX-D apart is its outstanding spectrum efficiency, allowing users to operate more channels on-air than with any other wireless system in its class. Solid RF performance enables users to cover applications with diverse requirements, while competitive pricing makes the system accessible to purveyors of mid-tier events.
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WMS420 is a professional multi-channel wireless microphone system with pilot tone transmission to prevent unwanted noise. The Vocal Set includes a HT420 handheld transmitter featuring a patented state-of-the-art D5 dynamic capsule for well-balanced, powerful sound. The space diversity receiver offers both a microphone level and a line level output.
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Discussion BoardsOpen MenuDiscussion Boards Open Menu
BlogsOpen MenuBlogs Open MenuBlack screen/cursor flashing after inserting the Windows password!Open MenuBlack screen/cursor flashing after inserting the Windows password! Open Menu
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I installed the software cd that came with the all-in-one c 5540. When attempting to use the scan button and then 'scan to computer' it always displayed an error "Scan Problem Try starting scan from coputer. Refer to documentation for details". I upgraded the software with the latest driver .exe for the c5500 series from the HP website. When trying to use the same function on the all-in-one, I get the same message. When I open the HP solution center, it will scan okay. Why can't I use the scan to computer function on the all-in-one?
† The opinions expressed above are the personal opinions of the authors, not of HP. By using this site, you accept the Terms of Use and Rules of Participation


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- Conference date: 22–25 June 2010
- Location: Mykonos, (Greece)
Using the population synthesis binary evolution code StarTrack, we present theoretical rates and delay times of Type Ia supernovae arising from various formation channels. These channels include binaries in which the exploding white dwarf reaches the Chandrasekhar mass limit (DDS, SDS, and helium‐rich donor scenario) as well as the sub‐Chandrasekhar mass scenario, in which a white dwarf accretes from a helium‐rich companion and explodes as a SN Ia before reaching the Chandrasekhar mass limit. We find that using a common envelope parameterization employing energy balance with and the supernova rates per unit mass (born in stars) of sub‐Chandrasekhar mass SNe Ia exceed those of all other progenitor channels at epochs for a burst of star formation at Additionally, the delay time distribution of the sub‐Chandrasekhar model can be divided in to two distinct evolutionary channels: the 'prompt' helium‐star channel with delay times <500 Myr, and the 'delayed' double white dwarf channel with delay times >800 Myr spanning up to a Hubble time. These findings are in agreement with recent observationally‐derived delay time distributions which predict that a large number of SNe Ia have delay times <1 Gyr, with a significant fraction having delay times <500 Myr. We find that the DDS channel is also able to account for the observed rates of SNe Ia. However, detailed simulations of white dwarf mergers have shown that most of these mergers will not lead to SNe Ia but rather to the formation of a neutron star via accretion‐induced collapse. If this is true, our standard population synthesis model predicts that the only progenitor channel which can account for the rates of SNe Ia is the sub‐Chandrasekhar mass scenario, and none of the other progenitors considered can fully account for the observed rates.
Key Topics
- White dwarfs
- 4.0
- Supernovae
- 3.0
- Star formation
- 2.0
- Stellar accretion
- 2.0
- Binary stars
- 1.0
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Mens Black Curly Wig
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Perfect for nearly any costume, whether spooky or sexy, this Long Black Curly Wig will certainly suit your needs. Long strands of wavy black synthetic fibers comprise this spectacularly natural-looking wig. The possibilities are endless when you add this wig to your collection.
Purple and Black Curly Wig
Purple is said to be a color that's rare in nature. That being said, why not take an unorthodox approach to your Halloween costume this year? Turn heads with this bright purple wig with black undertones. People will be dazzled by your unusual and mysterious look. Great for witch and Goth costumes.
Doll Pink Curly Adult Wig
Complete your gorgeous ragdoll costume with this Doll Pink Curly Adult Wig. Pink shaded hair features two black bows along with tight pink and purple curls.
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Twirl your vibrant locks with the perfect red curly girls wig. Whether you'll be swimming with the fishes as the little mermaid or staying afoot this Halloween, your new do will compliment any stylish costume.
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Bat your eyes, pout your lips, and get away with almost anything in this cute, curly blond wig! This classic womens wig comes with curly, long platinum locks perfect for sweetening up any gorgeous Goldilocks, pretty princess, sexy sorceress, or seductive siren costume
Nicki Minaj Pink Curly Wig
Wrap yourself in style when you celebrate fashion and fabulousness in this officially licensed Nicki Minaj pink curly adult's wig. Wear it to create or complete your costume on Halloween.
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Create or complete any costume with a splash of pink! The pink Curly Clips add a new dimension to your hair - sold as a set of two, they add a flirty and fun touch to any costume.
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Mens Black Combat Boots
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Metallica, Ozzy Osbourne - you know the look. Ridden hard and put away wet is what they say about the ladies, but the gents just keep on partying. Party wild in this heavy metal rocker long black wig.
Mens Horror Walker Black Boots
Walk like a zombie in these black men's Horror Walker boots. Complete your futuristic zombie, rocker or outer space costume with these battle-worthy, otherworldly boots.


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Dictionary » E » Earth wax Earth waxEarth wax --> ceresin a natural mixture of hydrocarbons of high molecular weight; a substitute for beeswax, also used in dentistry for impressions. Synonym: cerin, cerosin, earth wax, mineral wax, purified ozokerite. Please contribute to this project, if you have more information about this term feel free to edit this page Results from our forumChoosing A Black Or Brown Covering For Sleep RoomThese things could be dinosaurs in age of high tech fabrics, when our corner around earth gets cold, we turn towards that old reliable parkas for high heat. canada goose facts for kids canada goose jackets for men canada goose pbi chilliwack parka youth price of canada ...
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Theories - Origin of Life... comets. Interesting when you consider that not long ago the general consensus was that it was unlikely that any life existed other than that on Earth..
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Multicellular prokaryoteI would tentatively suggest the answer to this question is probably no because the history of all life on Earth is almost entirely about the history of prokaryotic life, and in all the billions of years prokaryotes ruled the Earth to the exclusion of all other forms of life ...
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Re: What is the purpose of life?... purpose of life is to find happiness. God is Happiness. He is Bliss. He is Love. He is Joy that will never go away from your soul. Man has come on earth solely to learn to know God; he is here for no other reason. This is the true message of the Lord. To all those who seek and love Him, He tells ...
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Dr. Jobe Martin Arguments... the argument - the girl referred to in the first post of the thread. I am a convinced Christian who goes to a church were many take the young earth position as gospel. They are good people - may are engineers and I have known doctors and biologists who hold to that position - adamant that ...
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Winnipeg Free Press - PRINT EDITION
This is Toews' team
Crosby likely to wear 'C' in Sochi, but Blackhawk the real leader
CALGARY -- Jonathan Toews won't admit to this being the plan, but it would not be surprising to find what has transpired the last few years was written down somewhere long ago.
Olympic gold medal. Stanley Cup. Another Stanley Cup. Top player status. In a wild rush spanning less than four years, Toews has gone from precocious to pre-eminent.
Captain of the Chicago Blackhawks, top forward at the 2010 Olympics, Conn Smythe winner in 2010 and a lock to be one of the top centres on Team Canada at the 2014 Olympics in Sochi.
When it comes to hockey, no one has it as good as Toews right now.
Toews scoffs at the notion he's executing his own master plan, but the will and force he exhibits on a nightly basis in the NHL suggests different.
-- Jonathan Toews
Really, does Jonathan Toews leave anything to chance? Sure, he can't guarantee the results he wants but Toews isn't a starry-eyed dreamer that lets the world turn whichever way it wants. No, Toews tries to turn the world in his direction, and lately, he's been more successful than any other player.
This will, this determination, makes Toews the natural leader of Team Canada, regardless of any official designation.
"It's all part of the plan. It's going perfectly so far," laughed Toews, moments after running around street-hockey style as part of Team Canada's Olympic orientation camp in Calgary. "No, I don't think you can plan on it. Lots of players don't get to win the Stanley Cup once, let alone twice. When we won in 2010 we joked about doing a few things differently the next time we won it, but we never would have guessed it would happen again so quickly. I've been lucky enough to be part of a great group of guys that want to win and an organization in Chicago that will do the things needed to win. You have the opportunities, it's up to you to make sure they don't slip by."
Team Canada coach Mike Babcock said Monday he had some thoughts on who his captain would be in Sochi, but he hadn't made a final determination. Toews figures in that slight reservation. Sidney Crosby is the consensus pick to be captain, but maybe Toews is better suited for the role.
In seven instances wearing a Team Canada jersey, Toews has won gold six times. He has the knack of being able to do whatever his team needs him to do at the right moment.
-- Jonathan Toews
Many will argue -- and I'm firmly in this camp -- at this moment in time, Toews is the best player in the world. Durable, clutch and complete. He is The Franchise in Chicago and maybe Canada too.
Crosby is an offensive genius, but his defensive game is lacking. And while he leads with his play, he's not exactly Abe Lincoln when it comes to oratory skills.
Toews took a strong stand during the lockout and is never afraid to speak his mind. It's not hard to imagine him getting up in the dressing room and setting things straight.
Toews, who is just coming down from the high of winning the Stanley Cup last season, says the chance to win and the opportunity to wear a Canadian jersey must always be cherished.
"You grow up dreaming of these chances," said Toews, who fixes his brown eyes on whoever asks him a question and digs for thoughtful and opinionated answers. "I was lucky enough to play in Vancouver and it was the highest moment in my career at the international level.
"Winning a gold medal at the Olympics and winning a Stanley Cup are different. As an NHL player, it's the highest professional level and I'd say the Olympics is the next thing. To be able to represent your country, especially Canada, where every single person around our country is watching that team, there's a lot of pressure and responsibility to show you belong. To win a gold medal is a great feeling in that regard. Winning a Stanley Cup is more of a team aspect, where you're with the same guys every day."
Asked about the difference between playing an Olympics in Canada vs. one overseas and it was immediately apparent Toews relishes the challenge of going to Russia and winning.
"We're always pretty comfortable and cozy on our home turf, but there's a special bonding when you go overseas," he said. "You're the opponent and the bad guy over there. But for the guys that get to go there and want to do what it takes to win gold, there will be no excuses."
Babcock can't go wrong selecting Crosby as his captain. But it should surprise no one if Toews is the de facto leader regardless of the letter on his jersey.
This is Jonathan Toews' time. And this will be his team, too.
email@example.com Twitter: @garylawless
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Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition August 27, 2013 D1
Updated on Tuesday, August 27, 2013 at 6:44 AM CDT: Adds photo, corrects spelling of Jonathan, fixes headline and deck
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Blackhawks acquire Antoine Vermette from Coyotes for 1st-rounder, Klas Dahlbeck
10:26 PM 0About Gary Lawless
Gary Lawless is the Free Press sports columnist and co-host of the Hustler and Lawless show on TSN 1290 Winnipeg and www.winnipegfreepress.com
Lawless began covering sports as a rookie reporter at The Chronicle-Journal in Thunder Bay after graduating from journalism school at Durham College in Ontario.
After a Grey Cup winning stint with the Toronto Argonauts in the communications department, Lawless returned to Thunder Bay as sports editor.
In 1999 he joined the Free Press and after working on the night sports desk moved back into the field where he covered pro hockey, baseball and football beats prior to being named columnist.
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New! Now you can dine at the Arsht Center just steps away from your theater seat! Click here for more information.
A beautiful priestess with a mysterious past is pursued by a fisherman who happens to be the best of friends with his rival in love. Honor, jealousy, and communal duty jeopardize the lovers' burgeoning bond with the threat of death at dawn, but they are freed from their fate by the revelation of a long-buried secret. This simple but exotic love story is decorated with beautiful melodies, vivid nocturnes, rhythmic dances, and lusty choruses.
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Experience concerts exploring the highly tempestuous and deeply emotional intermingling of music and politics. Music Director Franz Welser-Möst takes a fascinating look at two highly autobiographical composers, whose lives and careers were separated by over a century, yet whose works demonstrate how artists of two eras wrestled with themes of freedom, personal and collective liberty, and politics.
TRUST follows the success story of Harry, an unassuming yet savvy guy who has become an overnight internet millionaire with all the lavish trimmings. But beneath Harry's affable and affluent surface lies dissatisfaction, both with his success and his sexless marriage to an equally unhappy artist.
Mahler's Sixth Symphony is a work of deep pathos — Mahler himself appended the title "Tragic" — yet it was written during the happiest period of the composer's life yet it foreshadowed great tragic events that followed its composition. He authentically captures sorrow and elation, heartfelt pain and immeasurable beauty. Mahler looks into the depths of the human soul, explores the fragile nature of beauty, and tells us to hold on to wonder in spite of life's sorrows.
Discover the magic behind the movies! Experience what's rapidly becoming one of MISO's most popular series. Enhanced with multimedia visual imagery from the big screen, "Sounds from Hollywood" features selections of popular film scores from Hollywood's most prolific composers.
Long before that girl from Kansas arrives in Munchkinland, two girls meet in the land of Oz. One - born with emerald green skin - is smart, fiery and misunderstood. The other is beautiful, ambitious and very popular. How these two grow to become the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good makes for "the most complete - and completely satisfying - musical in a long time" (USA Today).
Direct from Spain, the incomparable Sara Baras makes her Arsht Center debut as the star of the Center's 8th annual Flamenco Festival Miami!
Performing the Great American Songbook favorites, two time Tony Award winner, Christine Ebersole, and five-time GRAMMY Award winner, Michael Feinstein celebrate the magic of Jazz and Broadway.
Hailed as the "greatest American violinist" of the modern era, Joshua Bell has led a dazzling internationally acclaimed career as a soloist, Grammy-award winning recording artist, chamber musician, pop culture heartthrob and even beauty pageant judge.
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Sign Petition to Honor Mother Teresa
On June 16, the New York State Senate unanimously adopted a resolution introduced by Senator George Maziarz in support of honoring Mother Teresa through a special light display at the Empire State Building. A request made by the Catholic League, the nation's largest Catholic civil rights organization, for just such a tribute was unexpectedly and inexplicably denied in May.
The Catholic League requested that the top of the Empire State Building be illuminated on the evening of August 26 with blue and white lights—the colors of the Missionaries of Charity, the religious order established by Mother Teresa in 1950. The organization initiated this idea to mark the 100th anniversary of Mother Teresa's birth, as the building is customarily lit with special colors in tribute to a variety of groups and occasions.
Senator Maziarz, the resolution's sponsor, said, "Blue and white lights adorning the Empire State Building would more than be a historical remembrance of Mother Teresa. Like a beacon, the lights would symbolize the compassion, the commitment, and the service for which she was known around the world."
"The Senate's resolution represents the will of the people of New York State," Senator Maziarz said. "Our action joins a growing chorus of voices from around the world supporting this tribute to Mother Teresa. We hope that the owners of the Empire State building hear us, intervene, and allow it to proceed."
"No legitimate reason for the refusal has been offered," Senator Maziarz added, "so our advocacy will continue."
Senator Maziarz is encouraging interested persons to click on the link above to sign the Catholic League's on-line petition to Mr. Anthony Malkin, the landmark building's owner, in support of Mother Teresa.
Mother Teresa, one of only a few people in history to be designated an honorary United States citizen, received more than one hundreds awards including the Nobel Peace Prize, the Presidential Medal of Freedom, and the Congressional Medal of Freedom. The United States Postal Service will also feature her portrait on a commemorative stamp issued later this year.


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The contact pictures showing up in the status bar for text messages in finally working. Awesome. Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium
How are you getting that to work? Is it merged into the official CM9 yet?
Does your KANG reflect the MAP additions/changes I see in the changelog for CM9?


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Following the success of the solid Power Windows and its subsequent tour, Rush took a much-needed break so they could be with their loved ones and relax. However, after a mere few months had passed, the band members quickly started letting the creative juices flow again and they started writing material for their follow-up release Hold Your Fire. Once the promotional single "Force Ten" was released to the public, it was clear to everyone that Rush hadn't given up on the poppier arrangements of the previous record; in fact, it seemed even more accessible than usual! With punchy drum work and flashy synthesizer bursts from Geddy Lee's trusty keyboard work, it sounded as though Rush were really going off the deep end with their pop-rock phase this time around. And... well... yeah. In a way, they kinda did.
Don't get me wrong; there are indeed progressive moments scattered about Hold Your Fire. In fact, the album's big hit single "Time Stand Still" is ironically one of the most typical and classic-sounding Rush songs on this entire thing because of its frequently altered tempos and more experimental character (with the female vocals, heavy atmosphere, the works). Unfortunately, this is also one of the first times in Rush's career in which some of their choices end up really biting them in the collective ass. There's only so much someone can take of a more watered-down Rush, and songs like the bland power-ballad "Second Nature" and the overly cheery instrumentation of "Mission" are begging for a songwriting overhaul. The emotional weight is here in top form, but - and I do hate to say this - the music has a tendency to be just plain boring. It's not that Rush have to be technical to be good, and the band's instrumental prowess shines in tunes like "Prime Mover" and the mystical "Tai Shan," but the synthesizers are really what kill a good chunk of this record. Why? Because they're so damn overbearing. As with Signals and a decent chunk of Power Windows, it feels as though Alex Lifeson has been once again shoved off to the sidelines as Lee's large array of keyboard effects comes in to take command of the record.
There are, however, some nifty things here and there that provide a good contrast to this, my personal favorite being the highly guitar-driven rocker "Turn the Page"; while there is still a high amount of synthesizer work when the song occasionally slows down, Alex's presence is strong and provides a uniquely stark atmosphere to the track. As for Neil Peart, he's certainly very commendable on this album because of his ability to transform simplicity into an immersive experience. He could easily have just followed what the other instruments are doing, but instead offers his own unique takes on these poppy tracks. The fills on "Time Stand Still" and "Turn the Page" are among his finest, and his highly involved performance in closer "High Water" positively contrasts the song's slow tempo and simple instrumental work.
Still, it's quite upsetting to hear a band's sound become diluted to the point of genuine boredom, and Rush were quite close to hitting such a mark. Hold Your Fire isn't a bad album, but it's one of the band's worst records regardless; the emotional content and atmosphere are strong, but not as powerful when coupled with the overdone synth arrangements and weaker songwriting. This just barely escapes being their worst album, but what a dangerously close call. However, to the Rush fans out there: you should get this if you're a completionist or into 80s Rush. Otherwise, I'd say this one's more for pop rock fans than the ones who adore the band's more progressive 70s material.
Hold Your Fire (or 'The Red Album' as I have fondly come to think of it over the years) is a rich, exciting record that, to a certain extent at least, finalised the experimental synthesizer period of Rush's career, in that the keyboards were used as a multi-layered textural device that was now a huge part of the Rush sound, although they had been using synthesizers as early as their classic 2112 album. Whilst it may not be as well produced as the exquisite Power Windows, this album holds some of their finest work - Time Stand Still, Prime Mover, Open Secrets and Mission. And yet, it is worth mentioning that there is not a single bad track to be found on Hold Your Fire, it is a very complete sounding piece of work. Some of it is uniquely experimental, the gentle sophistication of Tai Shan for instance, whilst the closing track sounds vast, almost overwhelming, the exotic, High Water.
There is some room for improvement within the sharp and 'thin' production treatment given, unlike the huge and full bodied sound of Power Windows (a personal favourite of mine) however, there is no denying the quality of the songs. It is probably best listened to on vinyl, for a richer, warmer, more 'red' sound, although the remaster can sound quite pristine on a decent sound system, add a touch of extra bass for punch if you have tone controls on your amplifier.
Neil Peart displays a somewhat more open and personal approach to the lyrics than usual (at least at this point in his writing career...) on songs that deal primarily with emotion, power and also with the passage of time. The best example of this approach can be found within the wonderful Open Secrets and for me, this song features one of Alex Lifeson's most emotive and evocative guitar solos. It reminds me of a wild, haunted wind, pining and lonely, blowing through the leaves of trees on a hot summer's night. Indeed the whole album invokes a sense of deep red within me, of an evening at the height of summer, when the sky is crimson, almost bloody in its look and feel, a dark red that will soon turn to black as the first chill of the evening descends from green, lush hills and the air is hot and sweet. Geddy Lee's pulsating bass work during Open Secrets is also a thing of rare, moving beauty.
Prime Mover is classic Rush, a complex framework of rhythms that stop and start, stop and start - 'the point of the needle, moving back and forth...' The music and lyrics are moving forward, in a fundamentally optimistic view and attitude that informs the listener that 'anything can happen.' This song is one of the reasons that I love Rush so much, it is at once outward looking and introspective, an echo of the sentiment within opening track Force Ten - 'Look in - look out - look around.' It is complex yet accessible, joyous in its statement of intent - '...thrill to be alive - the point of the journey, is not to arrive...'
Mission illustates perfectly just how accomplished Neil Peart had become at blending electronic percussion into his acoustic drumming, the middle section is nothing short of stunning, the mechanics of which can be seen in startling splendour on the Snakes and Arrows Live DVD, which for me holds the definative version of this song, also worth looking out for is Alex Lifeson's electric, searing solo during the end section, which simply shakes with emotion and you can see just how much he enjoys playing live. I read once that there is a version of Mission Rush recorded with Peter Collins that features a brass band, I really hope they release that version one day.
Time Stand Still is another standout track, warm and quietly haunting, with some beautiful backing vocals from Aimee Man that fit the mood of the song perfectly. Neil Peart's drum pattern during the chorus never fails to please me with its pin-point precision and constantly shifting rhythms. There are some subtle, contemplative lyrics during the song, contained within the verse -
'I turn my face to the sun,
Close my eyes,
Let my defences down -
All those wounds that I can't get unwound...'
Again, here is a track that is at once both introspective and outward looking -
'Time stand still -
I'm not looking back
But I want to look around me now.'
The final song that Rush wrote for the album is also the opening track, Force Ten. It starts with treated vocals and electronic drumming that sounds like a pneumatic drill before giving way to an urgent, busy bassline and driving snare drum pattern that carry us off into the journey of Hold Your Fire. It is a rich, rewarding experience that I find myself returning to, sometimes when there is a warm wind in the evening, the trees sway and late summer turns everything to a soft, bloody red and slowly, the first dark creeping tendrils of colour begin to float into the sky. By midnight the moon rides high over metallic cloud and the night sky holds its own circle of brilliant white fire.
I've found every Rush album to peak in its enjoyment after a few listens. After maybe five listens, I'll be able to decide whether or not I love it or not. 'Hold Your Fire', however, was an exception to that rule. At first, I found it too mellow and boring, but being it a release from one of my favourite bands, I forced myself to keep listening to it until I at least found something to enjoy about it. As I became more familiar with the music, I allowed myself to let the sounds wash over me and to interpret the lyrics as they naturally came to me. I found myself pleasantly surprised at the result, which was a state of real enjoyment and liking for this album.
This is the most laid back and symphonic effort from Rush. The guitars do not play a huge role in here, instead making way for Geddy's keyboards and voice to lead the way. This isn't a hard rock album. This isn't even really such a prog album....
...but is there emotion? Yes. Is there intelligence? Yes. Do I find myself moved by it? I would certainly have to say so.
This is music that might take a bit more time to get into than most Rush fans are used to. The symphonic influence here is very profound. I'm sure if this was an album by a symphonic band like Genesis or Yes, people would warm up to it more because that's what they're expecting from a band like that. I suppose this release is progressive if you take into consideration that although Rush is traditionally a heavy prog band, they were willing to explore symphonic rock and take risks. And isn't that what prog is all about?
This is an album with a toned down, yet very optimistic sound to it. It's music to listen to when feeling down and stressed - a piece of music to unwind to. That's what it was intended to be, and that's what it should be taken for.
Rush releases their 12th studio album, and the pinnacle of Rush's new wave synth era is realized, the bands long climb taking them to the summit as master composers. To bad we gave up the journey, not wanting to see this view from the wrong hill. Hold Your Fire is a collection of all the wrong ideas from Powered Windows, with any remaining old fashion rocking filtered out to insure a perfect pop collection; at times inspiring, as if the bands current mission statement can't completely deny the great performers and writers behind the curtain, but otherwise safe and light weight.
The music gasps with a few moments of greatness, but otherwise crumbles under its own sanitary perfection, forcing the listener to see the empty space where once stood a complex machine. Big productions and engineering perfection is now an end instead of a means. And when the music does hit hard, you just probably missed it after wading through mediocre versus and simple performances. Now there are two words that make me want to cry: "Simple Performance". This is Rush for Gods sake. Yes, Peart is performing well, and Lee is still a signature bass player, but both simply blend into the background, the band intentionally holding their fire as performers, writing themselves into a smaller part of a big whole. Don't even get me started on Lifeson. Besides a decent showing in the first and last song, the poor guy seems like an afterthought. How in the hell a three man rock band decides to write their only guitar player as a supporting part is beyond me. The moments he is allowed to shine (usually a token solo, which are still good) are just criminally to far apart.
Lyrically, this album rides just above average. I don't expect bands to necessarily be profound as a rule, but this is Rush. When I put on Rush I have expectations, but it's hit or miss on this one. If you look beyond ideas that are safe, generic, or pretentious (see "Second Nature"), you'll see that "Mission" turns a pretty good verse, and the conceptual "High Water" delivers in an abstract way.
Speaking of "High Water", for me this is the one song that delivers as a whole, the simplicity and polish of the 80's highlighting a brief shinning moment of progressive conceptual goodness. Peart brings his 'A' game, Lee's bass is sublime or commanding as needed, and my god Lifeson slowly comes to life. His gradual escalation coinciding with the eastern themes, which is excellent for the song structure - Where have you been Alex! It's not "Something for Nothing" by a long shot, but at least you're here. Next time get the guys to make the other nine tracks like this, and the album would have been a solid piece of 80's art-prog. I can live with keyboards and all the other stuff when they are on hand to support you.
If you are a big fan of 80's pop, this album will deliver for you. To the bands credit, they have written an album that far exceeds what one would think be possible of such music. If you are a huge Rush fan, you'll find a few moments, so wait and get a good deal on this along with its sister release Powered Windows. From there you can rip them together into a pretty decent EP of your favorite tracks. The rest of you will find this average at best. For me, this is a disappointing moment in a lackluster period of Rush's catalog. Moral of the story: A musician should never hold their fire.
Having split with long-time producer Terry Brown after Signals (who co-produced every album from Fly by Night to then), it was only a matter of time before Rush fell into the same pack as their peers, altogether abandoning progressive rock for the younger, hipper synth-pop of the 80's. Miraculously, Grace Under Pressure was still a really good effort, despite the overwhelming synthesizers. Power Windows wasn't bad, but you could see that the band's ideas were running thin. And then comes Hold Your Fire, which is the musical equivalent of the band bending over and receiving a major shafting from the sound of the era.
The sound on Hold Your Fire, while realistically a natural evolution from their other 80's albums, is Rush at their most fragile and innocuous. The New Age leanings that were perceptible on their previous few releases are in full swing here: the result is an album that is soft, commercially appealing, and utterly devoid of the things that make Rush worth listening to. Where is the hard-riffed, technically astonishing rock outfit that tossed literarily brilliant epics in the face of skeptical critics and came out on top? Not here my friends. Here we have an aging band trying to recapture the acclaim of youth by doing things entirely different than they would have then. Alex Lifeson's guitar hasn't been a focal point on an album since 1981's Moving Pictures. Think he couldn't be utilized any less? Here's he might as well not even been in the studio. He spends the duration of the album competing against the heavy synthesizer for supreme backing instrument that you'll barely hear beneath the bass and vocals. Of course Geddy Lee fans can rejoice over this: the bass is everything. Even on this, the band's mellowest album, Lee's bass is still punchy and wonderful. His vocals are nothing special, though fans of his later, more expressive singing may enjoy it. Peart's drumming isn't particularly special either, as he concentrates more on being textural than anything else. This includes utilizing a lot of auxiliary percussive gimmickry, the kind that your New Wave types were synthesizing anyway. And speaking of synthesizers, they're actually a little less persistent on this record. Not that they aren't everywhere (they are), it's just that they're not as overwhelming as say, the fucking bass guitar. Yes, Geddy is good, but did Steve Harris mix this album or what?
So as for the songs, there aren't even any highlights. The more energetic numbers of "Force Ten" and "Prime Mover" are the closest to past Rush rockers, while "Time Stand Still" has certain niceties to it. But otherwise the songs stick to the basic formula. Straightforward, unremarkable, non-progressive, bass-heavy, synth-heavy, pop-rockers that drone along for a few minutes longer than any of them should, occasionally featuring a castrated Lifeson solo. That's the base recipe for a Hold Your Fire song, topped off with pretentious, pseudo-spiritual fluff for lyrical content. Sounds delicious.
I know a couple of Rush fans who really dig this album, so there's no guarantee that you'll hate it. But I'm certainly not afraid to say that it sucks, so I will. Hold Your Fire sucks. You like Rush? Well you better like them a hell of a lot before you spend a penny on this one.
This may be Rush's most synth-laden album, but it is still of excellent quality. One of the major complaints I have heard about Rush's synth era is that Alex Lifeson had less to do. That's not entirely true. Sure, he doesn't play blazing leads or crunching riffs as he did in the early days, but he does play some excellent rhythm guitar during this era. Even still, a lot of his best solos were done through this time period so it's not like he abandoned them all together. Don't expect to hear classic hard rock when playing this album. It definitely softer, but the depth of the music is great.
The opening track, Force Ten, rocks the hardest here. The bass line is phenomenal, and overall the synth does not strike me as being as cheesy as it was in the past. Time Stand Still is probably the most 'pop' song here, but at least the lyrics are strong. It's about wanting to slow down time to enjoy life a little longer. Prime Mover has yet another excellent bass line. I really wish more bands would use leading bass line like Geddy Lee does instead of just playing root notes. My favorite of the album is Mission. It's got inspirational lyrics about sticking to your dreams and goals in life, and it has great instrumental section near the end. A powerful guitar solo finishes off the track, and I think it's one of Lifeson's best.
I have spoken mostly about Geddy and Alex, but what about drum god Neil Peart? He's not all over his drum kit like in the past, however he used electronic drums and percussion here, so his creativity is still evident. HYF has some of his best lyric writing as well. Force Ten, Mission, Open Secrets, and pretty much every other track has well written lyrics. I'm not sure if there is an overall theme to the album, but a lot of the tracks have inspirational lyrics.
There are some weaker tracks here though. I'm not a big fan of the closing track, High Water; it just doesn't come off as epic as a closing track should. Mission probably would have worked as a better closing song. Tai Shan is ok, as long as you don't expect a usual Rush song. It's mostly synth and mandolin, but no drums. It has grown on me with several listenings.
I know I said in a previous review that Permanent Waves was my favorite, but HYF practically surpasses it. It may have a lot of synth in it, but Rush performed it well. It's definitely worthy of checking out.
Highs: Musicianship, lyrics, mostly everything.
Lows: The synthesizers may turn some people away.
Final Comment: One of Rush's strongest albums.