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One of the greatest albums ever made, by one of the greatest bands in history. I've followed them for 40+ years & honoured to see them live. They're just so special 👍🇬🇧
Consider that this Album was what put Rush on the map…, and it wasn’t on the radio, it was live performances. They could play all of this live as well as it sounded in the studio, & trust me.., watching Neil was TRANSCENDENTAL…, especially on this performance. And the musicianship…, who else could play like that? They were in their 20s.
Yeah that's something people don't think about they were all between 22 and 23. It was only the fourth Rush album and the third with Neil. I think it's amazing being that young they were able to write this.
50s dad rock dork here. Your review was great. You’re always honest and thoughtful. It’s fun watching you become a fan and not in an over the top, obsequious kind of way. Keep it going!
Great reaction!! Love your honesty! It does sound very 70’s and they were (are) music geeks! But when this came out in 76’… we’d never heard anything like this!! It was truly mesmerizing!! Glad you enjoyed and appreciated!! Be well and God bless… from Texas!!
RUSH is really best live. Imagine being in a pot smoke filled pitch dark arena, no aisle lights back then. you hear Geedy's high-pitched voice "We've taken care of everything" it's incredible live.
This is the album that changed everything for me musically. I first heard it in 1980 when I was a 13 year old drummer. I have been obsessed with Rush since. The first concert I ever saw was the Signals tour in 82 and I was lucky enough to see them another 15 times through the years.👍
I saw Rush a few times 7-8 times maybe, also saw with my mom she never done a drug or drink in her life, in Atlanta Presto tour Primus opened. After the show she said only 3 guys? Yep that's all just 3,then she said those 3 guys made all that noise!
Now this is the Geddy voice we remember..... Yes the 70's no can do it now. Not enough talent out there now.... I agree its such a great piece. I think it was the music part that always got me first. Then I jad to check oit the lyrics. Yep 40'd up wearing the shirts. People won't take the time to listen to long songs. As most are radio time. There is a time and place for all songs. This is my fav. Garden song it make my flowers grow..... Thanks great coffee break, my boys!!! Cheers
Hey. Loved the reaction. You do you. I always prefer when reactors are honest in their opinions. Even me, being a 50 something rush dad, required multiple listens to some of their material to gain an appreciation.
Attention all planets of the solar federation. Seven words repeated three times =21. We have assumed control. Four words repeated three times =12. 2112. 😊
As a Rush Dad in his 50s, I identify, and I don't feel attacked. ;) 2112 warrants MULTIPLE listens. It can easily be too much to assimilate in a single pass. The whole is greater than the sum of the parts. Broken down, the parts may not be the most technical, especially for Rush. Together, with the story being told, it's a great conceptual piece. The overture is a medley of the themes from all the other movements, and each movement is crafted to complement the part of the story being told. It's also not an "easy-listening" piece; it's a commitment. Sometimes you think, "I'ma listen to some Rush", but sometimes, you think, "I'ma sit down and listen to 2112". It's like Carmina Burana. You have to commit to the experience. :) The libretto is based on an Ayn Rand story called "Anthem" set in a dystopian future where the Priests and their computers dictate everything in society ("the words you read, the songs you sing, the pictures that give pleasure to your eye...") Society is in lockstep, conformity is the rule. Everyone is complacent. Then a dude chilling by a waterfall finds a guitar, and his mind is expanded. Anthem is also, as you know, the title of one of their early songs, as well as their record label for many years. You are correct; Rush's record label was dogging them for radio-friendly schlock rock and threatening to drop them. This was their response. I believe it was Part II: The Temples of Syrinx that was released as the single.
One thing I loved about seeing Rush live was their appreciation for their beginnings, their old music. Even after 40 years they played their old stuff not as “ yeah that was cute” But as “ look where we came from and look at the fans who have been along for the journey. This is for THEM!!”
During the 2112 tour remember they also played the flip side and other pieces from their catalog inventory Passage to Bangkok Working Man Findind My Way Anthem one of my greatest experiences in 1977 Rush opened the doors to modern progressivism
I was 10 yrs old when this was released... it was huge to me listening to it on my older brothers record player. I still listen to it at least once a month. This, Yes- Fragile, ELP's self-titled first album and Styx- Crystal Ball were in constant rotation on my turntable.
Good , Honest Reaction 👏👍🏻 I am a 58 Year Old Rush Fan , After Many Times Listening to this Piece , Only Then did I Realize this is Not a “Song” but a Musical Theatrical Production , so now I am Able to Fully Enjoy the Instrumental and Lyrical Message of this “Song” in its Entirety . As a Musician it Helped Open my up my Mind and Helped me Realize Music has No Boundaries . ✌🏻
Great observation on this being from the 1970's. When I first bought this album in 1975 the airwaves were full of disco so I was looking for something different. So this kind of stood out a bit. Couldent believe this album followed Caress of Steel. They really stuck it to the man by just doing their own thing and taking it on the road. It helped that in San Antonio we had KISS FM radio which also played simultaneously on AM. They were a progressive rock music station. Hell, they even refused to play Kiss lol. They would have a weekly 'Destroy Disco Tapes' session on the air. The DJ's were Lou Roney and Joe 'The Godfather' Anthony. Joe would often hit the road looking for new talent. This took him to Canada on more than one occasion where he found acts like Rush, Triumph, Frank Marino and Mahogany Rush, Pat Travers, April Wine etc. He and Lou founded Stone City Attractions and sponsored these acts to play in San Antonio which became the progressive mecca or oasis if you will in a sea of drowning fans in the cesspool of disco and the record industry of that time. Good job and keep it up.
It was 1976, we were 14 !! It was great times and music. My friend lived at 2112 Chasewood.... He had his mailbox stolen a lot after this album came out ! I think his Dad hated RUSH Haha !!
Justin, thanks for getting to this one. I think your choice of the Lyric video was a good one. I have seen other versions, but this is good for a first listen. One thing that helps put this Album in context is understanding where the band was in their career at this time. Under a great deal of pressure from the record company to produce radio friendly music and most likely on their last opportunity to record they were determined to produce a record on their own terms. This story reflects their struggle vs the Music industry / record companies. In defiance to the pressure the record is the opposite of what record companies wanted. I agree with your comments that this was a reflection of the 70's, and I don't think it transcends time, as much as it represents a Band standing up for their creative vision and art despite the consequences. The success of this Album set up the band to carry on making their own brand of music without interference for the next 30 years. Thanks for your reaction.
You’ve got a new sub now Justin. Thanks so much for going down the Rush rabbit hole brother. Love your reaction to this! Looking forward to your reactions to The Necromancer and The Fountain of Lamneth from Rush’s Caress of Steel LP. These 2 tracks are EPIC and will blow your mind 🤯! Trust a very seasoned Rush army member.✌️🤟
first heard this in 1978 I had a friend that had a Galaxy 500 LTD we skipped school and rode around in there the rain in the neighborhoods smoking weed and rocking out to 2112
The required repeated listens IS ESSENTIAL, particularly for Rush and prog. The symbol represents the individual man against the system (whatever that system may be) The fact that you can say it sounds 70's now, is only because it sounded like nothing else back then when it was released, but AFTERWARDS, it resonated with musicians to use those techniques to make their music better. Later on in Subdivisions, 1982 a lot of the lyrical motif is revisited, more relatable and concise in the writing and delivery. "Conform or be cast out" "Opinions all provided, the future pre-decided" "Nowhere is the dreamer or the misfit so alone" Good Honest reaction Justin, that's all us REAL RUSH fans ask for. BTW you just described me to a tee mid 50's Rush concert tee, flip flops, cargo shorts LOL so sue me it's all style WITH some substance. Peace
Okay he describes me too but I'm 50s, lol. And I will suggest him relisting Also may be getting a little you know baked just a little LOL eventually he will see how this is different than every other thing in 1976. Glad to hear you are liking Geddys voice now and that is rewarding enough. You have to understand though that lyrical content is just as important instrumental content when it comes to Rush. With that all being said I still feel like it's time for you to move on to Cygnus X-1 book 1 and book 2. I mean if you feel you're up for it this is two songs that take place on two albums about an explorer who gets sucked into a black hole on one album and comes out on another album on Mount Olympus. Great story... beautiful lyrics & great instrumental. Geddys bassline on Cygnus is pretty catchy LOL and think you will enjoy
Dork Rush mom here! 2112 was my first Rush album & I was a little late to the party as I got it when I was 12 or 13 (early 80s). I loved that it was loosely based on a book I had read shortly before hearing the album, Anthem by Ayn Rand.
RUSH, Queen and Led Zeppelin are the only bands that I can think of where each member is an equal part. You can't replace them without changing the whole dynamic!
Great reacting, what is also great about this, is how it calls back to orchestra muisc. It's an overture with 7 moments, and at the end of the overture part 1, they have a part of 1812 overture in it. That's one reason why I find it so cool.
It's hard to believe it's just 3 guys that made this musical genius and through the years they just kept getting better and better pulling musical genius out of the proverbial hat like" Spirit of Radio", "Moving Pictures", And " Subdivision". They blew my mind and I picked up my 1st left handed guitar and let them teach me. I became a musician because of RUSH. I was lucky to have been to 3 of their concerts. God bless Neil and show the Angels of Heaven what mortal men can play. Amen brother.
Lol yeah I'm one of those dork dad's you're talking about, in my 50's and still wear Rush shirts. Another reason I like Rush so much over the decades because they were not your typical sex drugs and rock and roll type of band like you often see in rock music, they had no drug problems and they all got along and they didn't have constant band member changes, the lyrics are thought-provoking and really make you think, and of course the music is amazing, but I definitely see where you're coming from when it comes to not being a big lyrics person, I'm the same way.
I listen to music in the same way as you. Instrumentally, it has to make sense in that each player should be collectively pleasant to the ear. When a song feels good to hear, then I will take it further by concentrating on the lyrics. The animated video shows the story behind the lyrics that will make more sense to follow than the lyric video. Congratulations on getting through 2112 (at least) once!
In a way, you had the same reaction to this as I had when I was younger and Aerosmith was in their 90s CrazyCrying Alicia Silverstone videos phase and I first heard the original recording of Dream On back before all the screaming live hadn't given Steven Tyler that base voice that was kinda blown out. I immediately asked a friend of they had a different singer back then. They told me it was him and I'd start hearing it more and more as the song went on.
Great Reaction! I don't know what it is, but when Part 3 Discovery starts, I always have to go to the bathroom. Justin, The other side of this album has regular songs on it and some of them are real good. Passage to Bangkok is a fun song about traveling around the world and stopping to smoke the best weed.
They’re definitely not for everyone! Yet one of the best 3 piece bands ever!!! And how could you not be impressed by the storytelling of the lyrics?? Neil Peart is one of the best lyricist of our time! Granted that 2112 is early on in his lyrical content but geez. The lyrics are so good at telling the story!
In concert this songs comes to even greater life, with the crowd participation and reaction. It goes from 10 to 12. Try a live recording, most don't have it in entirely but some are close but loose a bit of the quieter vocal parts. Anyway, fun! Glad you had a listen. Thanks for sharing
The guys from the Foo fighters , Janes Addiction , Duane Perry Jethro Tulls drummer , Taylor Hawkins, Chad Smith , Stewart Copland the police drummer , Danny Carey from Tool Dave Grohl all takes about how this song was a big part of learning the drums when young , Chad Smith talked about how he had this on repeat
Justin During 2013's Rock Hall of Fame, Dave Grohl did introduction and inducting Rush into Hall of Fame. During music version, his band, Foo Fighters cover this song as Rush joined them for a jam session. Then Rush did least 3 iconic songs of them for the audience there.
Love your honesty, your down to earth, common sense commentary is appreciated and welcomed. You're correct when you mention OUR initial reaction, for those who were around when these albums were released back in 76, our response was WTF? These guys are are unbelievable, but looking back, for me, their music stands the test of time even now in 2022, its very relevant, and as you say, once you've taken a much deeper dive, you'll uncover more of their DEEP library! Bytor and the snow dog is from the album Fly by night, released in 1975 will also get your attention, check it out!
I think your reaction and commentary was quite accurate and fair. It definitely has a 70's vibe that may not have the same vibe after nearly 50 years later. Also, the backstory of how the song, (and album), came to be certainly enhanced the impact when it was released in 1976! As you stated, 2112's place in the RUSH discography also gives this song added importance and status. All that being said, I think this is an amazing piece of music and storytelling. This song and album cemented RUSH as one of preeminent bands of the 70's, 80's, and beyond! Thanks much!😉☮
Nice Canadian boys 🍁. Nice honest reaction. Now you should give Geddy's favorite band Yes a listen. Close To The Edge was released in 1972 and became the ultimate prog piece for all time.
I totally agree with Renee you should do the live different stages tour version when you do go through all the albums. They did an amazing job with this live which is not easy to do with a 20 minute opus :-)
I agree 100% with you it's total 70s and I appreciate your honesty but for the time it was pretty revolutionary. The fact that these guys were told to do a commercial album and then put up a big f you and did this piece was epic! They have brass ones for doing that and you have to tip your hat they didn't want to compromise their music for The mighty Dollar and I've always respected that so much about them.
That song was Rush's response to the record companies trying to control them, and get them to make more "radio friendly " music. Rush is the man discovering the guitar, and the record company is the Preists. Not to mention, the previous album "Caress of Steel" was a flop, and almost ended their career. 2112 skyrocketed them into fame!
It's a two-extra cup o' coffee piece of music! I've never seen you do that before. lol. It's no surprise that this is what took RUSH from career demise to super stardom, which is fitting considering the content of the piece. To me, it was ahead of its time released in 1976. Considering it was done in the 70s it would sound like the 70s but over time their evolvement in music translated within their live performances. If you were to hear Overture/Temples of Syrinx during their latter tours, you would probably appreciate it more.
The most amazing thing for me on 2112 is that Getty argues with himself in Presentation where in consecutive breaths he uses entirely different voices and timing... live!
2112 is awesome but I have a random off topic comment. I have the same guitar strap as the one hanging behind your monitor haha. Caught my eye right at the end
Thanks for your honesty. Back in the 70s when I first heard it . we were blown away. It maybe a little dated but it set the stage for what was to come.
You got it. The record company wanted short radio friendly hits. They were on the ropes, about to be dropped by the label but got commitment for one more record for Rush to run out some hits. The band decided that they would rather be dropped than have the label telling them how to make music. So while the label thought they were toiling away on making radio friendly music, Rush delivered a record whose first song is a seven part suite, concept, taking up the entire first side. It was an incredibly ballsy move. They stayed true to themselves and their music and the rest is history.
Honesty is the best policy, Justin. It very much is like a Rush movie. Personally, I still don't understand why someone hasn't given this epic the 'Tommy' treatment, or created a musical. It definitely is a 70's song, but taken in context, this was a great opus and inspiration to other bands.
You got it! Geddy's voice, yep. Recorded early '76. I never hate anyone for an honest reaction - even if you didn't like it. Since you did like some parts of it and looked like you enjoyed the music I don't have a single complaint. :) Just glad you got to it. Yes, I tried to steer you right on ignoring the lyrics the first listen through. :) LOL at the dork comments! :) I admit it. Side 2 of 2112 is awesome too and just indivdual songs. But back to 2112 musically, there's parts in there where Neil is playing the beats but also playing an extended melody like a lead instrument. I'm loving all of it because it was so unusual and I'd never heard anything like that. Alex's solos were fitting and right on. Geddy's bass wasn't as forward as it could be, but it was still there and parts it was up front enough you knew he was there, plus his singing. Ok, one more part here, imagine smoking a bit of weed, laying in a dark room with a prime set of headphones, having a good record player with a decent needle and letting it rip. Then after the first side finishes and you get up to flip the record you get to hear the next side which is worth a spin too. After hearing the previous albums over a few years this was prime ear and brain candy and the continuing of the stories they would keep telling. I don't smoke weed any more, but I remember... Sorta... :)
I first heard this song in 1980. Which was still a very 1970s year. If you've grown up with Dream Theater and modern prog metal then you can't really appreciate the impact that Rush had on the genre back then, but it was immense.
☺️ I love that you gave this review such thought considering it was a 20 minute song. 🥰 By the way, my favorite part is Discovery! That intro with the water & guitar tuning was EVERYTHING.... 🤔 It felt like 🤗 we were all in on the joke. 😁🐰
I was simultaneously turned on to this album and LSD on the same night. Life and music was never the same again. To my still deeply missed friends and bandmates with me on that night, you both live again every time this music plays. Steve Austin 🎸 Robert Hendricks 🥁
We have assumed control and made Rush your fav. band. This is an unbelievable album. It sounds like the period? Good that's the period I come from, because I'm old.(Beatles, Stones, Jimi, Janis, Zeppelin) This is also from the album rock period where radio stations had no problem playing whole album sides or very long songs. (I bet you never heard of the King Biscuit flower hour.) And of course it wasn't all pre-programmed like it is now. Get it on vinyl, you'll be glad you did. (Old hippies love that) I'm also a dork who wears a Led Zeppelin concert shirt.
Requires more than one listen, like 40 years of listening ! I just noticed in the movement Presentation, Geddy stresses an “ooh” sound in 10 different places (which is a sound Geddy really likes to sing). If you take those ten words you get a poem: UNUSUAL SHOULD DO. YOU TRUE BEAUTY. DO MUSIC, DO YOU. ❤
This was their comeback from the “Down the Tubes” Caress of Steel tour. They stuck it in the face of their critics. We, the fans of the time, basked in the glory. It is still glorious. You had to be there to get it. Dream Theater and the other bands of the 90s and later learned their chops from these three virtuosos.
Alex and Getty were 23 years old and Neil was 24 when they released this. Amazing! I was 22 when I first heard this. Loved it then and love it now! Next up should really be Natural Science. It is a great song.
The story in this rock opera is a variation on Ayn Rand's novella "Anthem". If you've ever heard Rand is shit, you heard wrong from losers. Rand's influence on Peart's lyrics is one of the magic ingredients that made Rush a success
I entered the rush discography via moving pictures, and eventually went backwards. I recognize some great things in 2112, but it’s never been my favorite part of their discography. Unlike the people that grew up with it. If that was your first exposure at the time I get why it would be important to you at a seminal point in your life. But I have come to appreciate it more over time especially the nuances on pieces like the Oracle and discovery. Plus it’s just a lot of fun😬
This was so different in the 70's, it is cool. Listen to earlier pieces, his voice is wild. Sorry, this was unique at the time, every decade they were a leader. I"ll take this 70''s sound over the 2022 sound anyday.
Glad you liked the masterpiece and appreciated you honesty. I think the studio albums are great, but I always gravitate to the live albums, it seems to add another dimension to there songs….that being said, I love the 2112 version on the live album Different Stages….it has the complete song and is awesome….a must listen live album in my opinion….
Yeah, it takes several listens for it all to soak in. Can’t wait for you to do the whole discography! Some have recommended you watch the Rush documentary “Beyond the Lighted Stage.” You definitely should, BUT only after you’ve heard the whole discography. It will make more sense in my opinion. Keep up the good work my friend! 😎
As an 80s Rush fan, 2112 has never done that much for me, either. However, it's an important turning point in their career. You should consider watching the documentary Beyond the Lighted Stage.
@@dannyjarrell9625 That was great. They went through quite the amount of wine if I remember correctly. Well deserved for the accomplishments of world-class men and musicians, each one in the company of sheer brilliance. I enjoyed the tone of the setting as well.
Geddy had much better range in his youth. He lost a lot of his voice over the years. They are master musicians though. We don't hate honesty. You really do need more than one listen. With the lyrics it is a ton to absorb
We touched in this before and you’ve heard his earlier vocals. His voice was powerful up to about late 70s. Remember how old they were then compared to say 20 years later. This was their 4th studio album ( 1976 ) By Tor and the Snowdog and The Necromancer are epic bangers. Then again you’d have to listen to lyrics again and they kinda tells stories with music so you may be DONE.
This is why i am a pre 80s Rush fan. Its the sound i laid in bed as a teen and listened over and over Young screaming Geddy and Alex guitar was more raw with less synth effects
New sub here..... Loving the honest reacts...... Now as a bassist, you MUST know Henrick Linder from Dirty Loops..... If not, that is a rabbit hole you must dive down head first.... Dirty loops Follow the Light is a great way to start featuring Cory Wong....... We are anxiously awaiting!!!
Others have related this, but context is important here. File this under "you had to be there." Here's my take since I was. The label gave Rush an ultimatum after the previous album, Caress of Steel: "make a radio-friendly record or else." They were 23/24-year old kids on the verge of breaking through, having to decide to either sell out or stay true to themselves. Their fanbase was small and growing. They were not a headliner. The message they delivered to everyone was 2112. The story, the complex arrangements, Alex finding "this strange device" getting crushed by the Priests and then putting up the ultimate fight, documented in the music at the end. At this moment, the Rush army was formed: "we have assumed control." Neil said the starman logo represents "abstract man against the masses." Thanks for the review brother. :)
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Thank you for this reaction. All Rush albums are monumental, but 2112 is a landmark.
Did you read the LINER NOTES and the STORY - This is based on AYN RAND's ANTHEM.
aynrand.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/ant_analyzing-2112-by-rush.pdf
"Discovery" still brings tears, the passion of an individual pleading to the priests for understanding, passionate.
First time I heard this, I broke out in tears when the Hero discovers the guitar. Still brings chills.
Greatest 3 piece rock band in history, no debate, over…😊
Not even YES can rival their might
No, they are the greatest band period
One of the greatest albums ever made, by one of the greatest bands in history. I've followed them for 40+ years & honoured to see them live. They're just so special 👍🇬🇧
Consider that this Album was what put Rush on the map…, and it wasn’t on the radio, it was live performances.
They could play all of this live as well as it sounded in the studio, & trust me.., watching Neil was TRANSCENDENTAL…, especially on this performance.
And the musicianship…, who else could play like that? They were in their 20s.
Yeah that's something people don't think about they were all between 22 and 23. It was only the fourth Rush album and the third with Neil. I think it's amazing being that young they were able to write this.
50s dad rock dork here. Your review was great. You’re always honest and thoughtful. It’s fun watching you become a fan and not in an over the top, obsequious kind of way. Keep it going!
Great reaction!! Love your honesty! It does sound very 70’s and they were (are) music geeks! But when this came out in 76’… we’d never heard anything like this!! It was truly mesmerizing!! Glad you enjoyed and appreciated!! Be well and God bless… from Texas!!
Sir, the mental gathering, that 3 people have to put this together is amazing. And that's not even their best stuff.
RUSH is really best live. Imagine being in a pot smoke filled pitch dark arena, no aisle lights back then. you hear Geedy's high-pitched voice "We've taken care of everything" it's incredible live.
This is the album that changed everything for me musically. I first heard it in 1980 when I was a 13 year old drummer. I have been obsessed with Rush since. The first concert I ever saw was the Signals tour in 82 and I was lucky enough to see them another 15 times through the years.👍
I saw Rush a few times 7-8 times maybe, also saw with my mom she never done a drug or drink in her life, in Atlanta Presto tour Primus opened. After the show she said only 3 guys? Yep that's all just 3,then she said those 3 guys made all that noise!
Now this is the Geddy voice we remember.....
Yes the 70's no can do it now. Not enough talent out there now....
I agree its such a great piece. I think it was the music part that always got me first.
Then I jad to check oit the lyrics. Yep 40'd up wearing the shirts. People won't take the time to listen to long songs. As most are radio time.
There is a time and place for all songs.
This is my fav. Garden song it make my flowers grow.....
Thanks great coffee break, my boys!!!
Cheers
Hey. Loved the reaction. You do you. I always prefer when reactors are honest in their opinions. Even me, being a 50 something rush dad, required multiple listens to some of their material to gain an appreciation.
Attention all planets of the solar federation. Seven words repeated three times =21. We have assumed control. Four words repeated three times =12. 2112. 😊
Dude went to this concert after album came out in late 70's. The show was fantastic. Brings back the memories.
As a Rush Dad in his 50s, I identify, and I don't feel attacked. ;) 2112 warrants MULTIPLE listens. It can easily be too much to assimilate in a single pass. The whole is greater than the sum of the parts. Broken down, the parts may not be the most technical, especially for Rush. Together, with the story being told, it's a great conceptual piece. The overture is a medley of the themes from all the other movements, and each movement is crafted to complement the part of the story being told. It's also not an "easy-listening" piece; it's a commitment. Sometimes you think, "I'ma listen to some Rush", but sometimes, you think, "I'ma sit down and listen to 2112". It's like Carmina Burana. You have to commit to the experience. :)
The libretto is based on an Ayn Rand story called "Anthem" set in a dystopian future where the Priests and their computers dictate everything in society ("the words you read, the songs you sing, the pictures that give pleasure to your eye...") Society is in lockstep, conformity is the rule. Everyone is complacent. Then a dude chilling by a waterfall finds a guitar, and his mind is expanded.
Anthem is also, as you know, the title of one of their early songs, as well as their record label for many years.
You are correct; Rush's record label was dogging them for radio-friendly schlock rock and threatening to drop them. This was their response. I believe it was Part II: The Temples of Syrinx that was released as the single.
I remember my first time... 13 yrs old, 82' the kid Kevin was SO excited to play it for me.....!
One thing I loved about seeing Rush live was their appreciation for their beginnings, their old music. Even after 40 years they played their old stuff not as “ yeah that was cute”
But as “ look where we came from and look at the fans who have been along for the journey. This is for THEM!!”
During the 2112 tour remember they also played the flip side and other pieces from their catalog inventory Passage to Bangkok Working Man Findind My Way Anthem one of my greatest experiences in 1977 Rush opened the doors to modern progressivism
I was 10 yrs old when this was released... it was huge to me listening to it on my older brothers record player. I still listen to it at least once a month. This, Yes- Fragile, ELP's self-titled first album and Styx- Crystal Ball were in constant rotation on my turntable.
Good , Honest Reaction 👏👍🏻 I am a 58 Year Old Rush Fan , After Many Times Listening to this Piece , Only Then did I Realize this is Not a “Song” but a Musical Theatrical Production , so now I am Able to Fully Enjoy the Instrumental and Lyrical Message of this “Song” in its Entirety . As a Musician it Helped Open my up my Mind and Helped me Realize Music has No Boundaries . ✌🏻
Have to give Alex one thing - when he knows exactly what he wants to say on his guitar, he knows exactly how to say it.
Great observation on this being from the 1970's. When I first bought this album in 1975 the airwaves were full of disco so I was looking for something different. So this kind of stood out a bit. Couldent believe this album followed Caress of Steel. They really stuck it to the man by just doing their own thing and taking it on the road. It helped that in San Antonio we had KISS FM radio which also played simultaneously on AM. They were a progressive rock music station. Hell, they even refused to play Kiss lol. They would have a weekly 'Destroy Disco Tapes' session on the air. The DJ's were Lou Roney and Joe 'The Godfather' Anthony. Joe would often hit the road looking for new talent. This took him to Canada on more than one occasion where he found acts like Rush, Triumph, Frank Marino and Mahogany Rush, Pat Travers, April Wine etc. He and Lou founded Stone City Attractions and sponsored these acts to play in San Antonio which became the progressive mecca or oasis if you will in a sea of drowning fans in the cesspool of disco and the record industry of that time. Good job and keep it up.
It was 1976, we were 14 !! It was great times and music. My friend lived at 2112 Chasewood.... He had his mailbox stolen a lot after this album came out ! I think his Dad hated RUSH Haha !!
Lol
Justin, thanks for getting to this one. I think your choice of the Lyric video was a good one. I have seen other versions, but this is good for a first listen. One thing that helps put this Album in context is understanding where the band was in their career at this time.
Under a great deal of pressure from the record company to produce radio friendly music and most likely on their last opportunity to record they were determined to produce a record on their own terms. This story reflects their struggle vs the Music industry / record companies. In defiance to the pressure the record is the opposite of what record companies wanted.
I agree with your comments that this was a reflection of the 70's, and I don't think it transcends time, as much as it represents a Band standing up for their creative vision and art despite the consequences. The success of this Album set up the band to carry on making their own brand of music without interference for the next 30 years.
Thanks for your reaction.
Thanks for keeping it real . I really like your honesty
You’ve got a new sub now Justin. Thanks so much for going down the Rush rabbit hole brother. Love your reaction to this! Looking forward to your reactions to The Necromancer and The Fountain of Lamneth from Rush’s Caress of Steel LP. These 2 tracks are EPIC and will blow your mind 🤯! Trust a very seasoned Rush army member.✌️🤟
Thanks Tommy 🙏
first heard this in 1978 I had a friend that had a Galaxy 500 LTD we skipped school and rode around in there the rain in the neighborhoods smoking weed and rocking out to 2112
Possibly the most badass ending to a musical piece ever
This was my intro to Rush, in 1978.
Repeated listens: had it on repeat on turntable for weeks back then. And still never get tired of it.
Opus indeed.
The required repeated listens IS ESSENTIAL, particularly for Rush and prog. The symbol represents the individual man against the system (whatever that system may be) The fact that you can say it sounds 70's now, is only because it sounded like nothing else back then when it was released, but AFTERWARDS, it resonated with musicians to use those techniques to make their music better. Later on in Subdivisions, 1982 a lot of the lyrical motif is revisited, more relatable and concise in the writing and delivery. "Conform or be cast out" "Opinions all provided, the future pre-decided" "Nowhere is the dreamer or the misfit so alone" Good Honest reaction Justin, that's all us REAL RUSH fans ask for. BTW you just described me to a tee mid 50's Rush concert tee, flip flops, cargo shorts LOL so sue me it's all style WITH some substance. Peace
Very well said sir.
Okay he describes me too but I'm 50s, lol. And I will suggest him relisting Also may be getting a little you know baked just a little LOL eventually he will see how this is different than every other thing in 1976. Glad to hear you are liking Geddys voice now and that is rewarding enough. You have to understand though that lyrical content is just as important instrumental content when it comes to Rush. With that all being said I still feel like it's time for you to move on to Cygnus X-1 book 1 and book 2. I mean if you feel you're up for it this is two songs that take place on two albums about an explorer who gets sucked into a black hole on one album and comes out on another album on Mount Olympus. Great story... beautiful lyrics & great instrumental. Geddys bassline on Cygnus is pretty catchy LOL and think you will enjoy
"Attention all planets of the solar federation... 3 times = 21
"We have assumed control" 3 times = 12
............................... 2112
I saw Rush 4 times. All sold out shows. A tremendous band with fanatical fans. They are missed.
Awesome song... most epic piece of rock music ever recorded.
The best!! Super Great trip while you share an album to someone for the 1st time. JS
Dork Rush mom here! 2112 was my first Rush album & I was a little late to the party as I got it when I was 12 or 13 (early 80s). I loved that it was loosely based on a book I had read shortly before hearing the album, Anthem by Ayn Rand.
RUSH, Queen and Led Zeppelin are the only bands that I can think of where each member is an equal part. You can't replace them without changing the whole dynamic!
I love this reaction!
Great reacting, what is also great about this, is how it calls back to orchestra muisc. It's an overture with 7 moments, and at the end of the overture part 1, they have a part of 1812 overture in it. That's one reason why I find it so cool.
It's hard to believe it's just 3 guys that made this musical genius and through the years they just kept getting better and better pulling musical genius out of the proverbial hat like" Spirit of Radio", "Moving Pictures", And " Subdivision". They blew my mind and I picked up my 1st left handed guitar and let them teach me. I became a musician because of RUSH. I was lucky to have been to 3 of their concerts. God bless Neil and show the Angels of Heaven what mortal men can play. Amen brother.
Alex is such a great guitarist! So underrated!
Lol yeah I'm one of those dork dad's you're talking about, in my 50's and still wear Rush shirts. Another reason I like Rush so much over the decades because they were not your typical sex drugs and rock and roll type of band like you often see in rock music, they had no drug problems and they all got along and they didn't have constant band member changes, the lyrics are thought-provoking and really make you think, and of course the music is amazing, but I definitely see where you're coming from when it comes to not being a big lyrics person, I'm the same way.
I listen to music in the same way as you. Instrumentally, it has to make sense in that each player should be collectively pleasant to the ear. When a song feels good to hear, then I will take it further by concentrating on the lyrics. The animated video shows the story behind the lyrics that will make more sense to follow than the lyric video. Congratulations on getting through 2112 (at least) once!
In a way, you had the same reaction to this as I had when I was younger and Aerosmith was in their 90s CrazyCrying Alicia Silverstone videos phase and I first heard the original recording of Dream On back before all the screaming live hadn't given Steven Tyler that base voice that was kinda blown out. I immediately asked a friend of they had a different singer back then. They told me it was him and I'd start hearing it more and more as the song went on.
Great Reaction! I don't know what it is, but when Part 3 Discovery starts, I always have to go to the bathroom.
Justin, The other side of this album has regular songs on it and some of them are real good. Passage to Bangkok is a fun song about traveling around the world and stopping to smoke the best weed.
And the 70’s prog is so so good. Though I respect your opinion, this is one of the best songs, ever. RIP Neil
They’re definitely not for everyone! Yet one of the best 3 piece bands ever!!! And how could you not be impressed by the storytelling of the lyrics?? Neil Peart is one of the best lyricist of our time! Granted that 2112 is early on in his lyrical content but geez. The lyrics are so good at telling the story!
Geddy"s voice is indeed incredible!! Epic song from an epic band....Appreciate your honest opinion sir..
In concert this songs comes to even greater life, with the crowd participation and reaction. It goes from 10 to 12.
Try a live recording, most don't have it in entirely but some are close but loose a bit of the quieter vocal parts.
Anyway, fun! Glad you had a listen. Thanks for sharing
The guys from the Foo fighters , Janes Addiction , Duane Perry Jethro Tulls drummer , Taylor Hawkins, Chad Smith , Stewart Copland the police drummer , Danny Carey from Tool Dave Grohl all takes about how this song was a big part of learning the drums when young , Chad Smith talked about how he had this on repeat
Justin
During 2013's Rock Hall of Fame, Dave Grohl did introduction and inducting Rush into Hall of Fame. During music version, his band, Foo Fighters cover this song as Rush joined them for a jam session. Then Rush did least 3 iconic songs of them for the audience there.
“Listen to my music and hear what it can do, there’s something here that’s strong as life, I know it will reach you.“ You’re Damn Right!🤘🏻🔥🎧
Easter egg:
Attention all planets of the solar federation
Attention all planets of the solar federation
Love your honesty, your down to earth, common sense commentary is appreciated and welcomed. You're correct when you mention OUR initial reaction, for those who were around when these albums were released back in 76, our response was WTF? These guys are are unbelievable, but looking back, for me, their music stands the test of time even now in 2022, its very relevant, and as you say, once you've taken a much deeper dive, you'll uncover more of their DEEP library!
Bytor and the snow dog is from the album Fly by night, released in 1975 will also get your attention, check it out!
I think your reaction and commentary was quite accurate and fair. It definitely has a 70's vibe that may not have the same vibe after nearly 50 years later. Also, the backstory of how the song, (and album), came to be certainly enhanced the impact when it was released in 1976! As you stated, 2112's place in the RUSH discography also gives this song added importance and status. All that being said, I think this is an amazing piece of music and storytelling. This song and album cemented RUSH as one of preeminent bands of the 70's, 80's, and beyond! Thanks much!😉☮
Nice Canadian boys 🍁. Nice honest reaction. Now you should give Geddy's favorite band Yes a listen. Close To The Edge was released in 1972 and became the ultimate prog piece for all time.
I totally agree with Renee you should do the live different stages tour version when you do go through all the albums. They did an amazing job with this live which is not easy to do with a 20 minute opus :-)
I agree 100% with you it's total 70s and I appreciate your honesty but for the time it was pretty revolutionary. The fact that these guys were told to do a commercial album and then put up a big f you and did this piece was epic! They have brass ones for doing that and you have to tip your hat they didn't want to compromise their music for The mighty Dollar and I've always respected that so much about them.
That song was Rush's response to the record companies trying to control them, and get them to make more "radio friendly " music. Rush is the man discovering the guitar, and the record company is the Preists. Not to mention, the previous album "Caress of Steel" was a flop, and almost ended their career. 2112 skyrocketed them into fame!
The suits destroyed music
You kinda come away a changed person after really listening to this masterpiece. 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
It's a two-extra cup o' coffee piece of music! I've never seen you do that before. lol. It's no surprise that this is what took RUSH from career demise to super stardom, which is fitting considering the content of the piece. To me, it was ahead of its time released in 1976. Considering it was done in the 70s it would sound like the 70s but over time their evolvement in music translated within their live performances. If you were to hear Overture/Temples of Syrinx during their latter tours, you would probably appreciate it more.
Only one thing to say. “Untouchable!”
The most amazing thing for me on 2112 is that Getty argues with himself in Presentation where in consecutive breaths he uses entirely different voices and timing... live!
2112 is awesome but I have a random off topic comment. I have the same guitar strap as the one hanging behind your monitor haha. Caught my eye right at the end
Thanks for your honesty. Back in the 70s when I first heard it . we were blown away. It maybe a little dated but it set the stage for what was to come.
You got it. The record company wanted short radio friendly hits. They were on the ropes, about to be dropped by the label but got commitment for one more record for Rush to run out some hits. The band decided that they would rather be dropped than have the label telling them how to make music. So while the label thought they were toiling away on making radio friendly music, Rush delivered a record whose first song is a seven part suite, concept, taking up the entire first side. It was an incredibly ballsy move. They stayed true to themselves and their music and the rest is history.
I'm here. It will always kick ass through years always.
Honesty is the best policy, Justin. It very much is like a Rush movie. Personally, I still don't understand why someone hasn't given this epic the 'Tommy' treatment, or created a musical. It definitely is a 70's song, but taken in context, this was a great opus and inspiration to other bands.
It's hard to believe they were not even in their mid twenties when they wrote this,it never fails,amazing.
When it was new; mind blowing! Smoke a joint , listen to Rush.
You got it! Geddy's voice, yep. Recorded early '76.
I never hate anyone for an honest reaction - even if you didn't like it. Since you did like some parts of it and looked like you enjoyed the music I don't have a single complaint. :) Just glad you got to it.
Yes, I tried to steer you right on ignoring the lyrics the first listen through. :)
LOL at the dork comments! :) I admit it.
Side 2 of 2112 is awesome too and just indivdual songs.
But back to 2112 musically, there's parts in there where Neil is playing the beats but also playing an extended melody like a lead instrument. I'm loving all of it because it was so unusual and I'd never heard anything like that. Alex's solos were fitting and right on. Geddy's bass wasn't as forward as it could be, but it was still there and parts it was up front enough you knew he was there, plus his singing.
Ok, one more part here, imagine smoking a bit of weed, laying in a dark room with a prime set of headphones, having a good record player with a decent needle and letting it rip. Then after the first side finishes and you get up to flip the record you get to hear the next side which is worth a spin too. After hearing the previous albums over a few years this was prime ear and brain candy and the continuing of the stories they would keep telling. I don't smoke weed any more, but I remember... Sorta... :)
I first heard this song in 1980. Which was still a very 1970s year. If you've grown up with Dream Theater and modern prog metal then you can't really appreciate the impact that Rush had on the genre back then, but it was immense.
Did you notice Alex Lifeson's tribute to the 1812 Overture by Tchaikovsky at the 6:20 point of your reaction video?
☺️ I love that you gave this review such thought considering it was a 20 minute song. 🥰 By the way, my favorite part is Discovery! That intro with the water & guitar tuning was EVERYTHING.... 🤔 It felt like 🤗 we were all in on the joke. 😁🐰
I was simultaneously turned on to this album and LSD on the same night. Life and music was never the same again.
To my still deeply missed friends and bandmates with me on that night, you both live again every time this music plays.
Steve Austin 🎸
Robert Hendricks 🥁
We have assumed control and made Rush your fav. band. This is an unbelievable album. It sounds like the period? Good that's the period I come from, because I'm old.(Beatles, Stones, Jimi, Janis, Zeppelin) This is also from the album rock period where radio stations had no problem playing whole album sides or very long songs. (I bet you never heard of the King Biscuit flower hour.) And of course it wasn't all pre-programmed like it is now. Get it on vinyl, you'll be glad you did. (Old hippies love that) I'm also a dork who wears a Led Zeppelin concert shirt.
Requires more than one listen, like 40 years of listening !
I just noticed in the movement Presentation, Geddy stresses an “ooh” sound in 10 different places (which is a sound Geddy really likes to sing). If you take those ten words you get a poem:
UNUSUAL SHOULD DO.
YOU TRUE BEAUTY.
DO MUSIC, DO YOU. ❤
This was their comeback from the “Down the Tubes” Caress of Steel tour. They stuck it in the face of their critics. We, the fans of the time, basked in the glory. It is still glorious. You had to be there to get it. Dream Theater and the other bands of the 90s and later learned their chops from these three virtuosos.
Alex and Getty were 23 years old and Neil was 24 when they released this. Amazing! I was 22 when I first heard this. Loved it then and love it now! Next up should really be Natural Science. It is a great song.
Not really one bad album in something like 40 years, Rush is amazing
The story in this rock opera is a variation on Ayn Rand's novella "Anthem". If you've ever heard Rand is shit, you heard wrong from losers. Rand's influence on Peart's lyrics is one of the magic ingredients that made Rush a success
I entered the rush discography via moving pictures, and eventually went backwards. I recognize some great things in 2112, but it’s never been my favorite part of their discography. Unlike the people that grew up with it. If that was your first exposure at the time I get why it would be important to you at a seminal point in your life. But I have come to appreciate it more over time especially the nuances on pieces like the Oracle and discovery. Plus it’s just a lot of fun😬
It's amazing how much noise 3 lads from Toronto can make.
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Whichever video, no matter. Eyes should be closed the first time hearing this masterpiece🤣😂🤣😂🤣
This was so different in the 70's, it is cool. Listen to earlier pieces, his voice is wild. Sorry, this was unique at the time, every decade they were a leader. I"ll take this 70''s sound over the 2022 sound anyday.
Glad you liked the masterpiece and appreciated you honesty. I think the studio albums are great, but I always gravitate to the live albums, it seems to add another dimension to there songs….that being said, I love the 2112 version on the live album Different Stages….it has the complete song and is awesome….a must listen live album in my opinion….
Mike Portnoy of Dream Theater is a huge Rush fan and was good friends with Neil Peart RIP. .
Remember, they were writing, recording, releasing and touring an album a year or less apart for many years back then, no protools.
Yeah, it takes several listens for it all to soak in. Can’t wait for you to do the whole discography! Some have recommended you watch the Rush documentary “Beyond the Lighted Stage.” You definitely should, BUT only after you’ve heard the whole discography. It will make more sense in my opinion. Keep up the good work my friend! 😎
Awesome ty
As an 80s Rush fan, 2112 has never done that much for me, either. However, it's an important turning point in their career. You should consider watching the documentary Beyond the Lighted Stage.
They have it on TH-cam under the title The Story of Rush and its English with Polish subtitles but its all there.
I've watched it many times.... Very Good..!
I'm in it for Temple but I get bored after that.
Have seen the one where they hook up. At a restaurant for dinner and catch up on old times
@@dannyjarrell9625 That was great. They went through quite the amount of wine if I remember correctly. Well deserved for the accomplishments of world-class men and musicians, each one in the company of sheer brilliance. I enjoyed the tone of the setting as well.
Amazes me still 3 dudes could make such a wall of sound. Heard this in 76 or 77 and never looked back
Geddy had much better range in his youth. He lost a lot of his voice over the years. They are master musicians though. We don't hate honesty. You really do need more than one listen. With the lyrics it is a ton to absorb
We touched in this before and you’ve heard his earlier vocals. His voice was powerful up to about late 70s. Remember how old they were then compared to say 20 years later.
This was their 4th studio album ( 1976 )
By Tor and the Snowdog and The Necromancer are epic bangers.
Then again you’d have to listen to lyrics again and they kinda tells stories with music so you may be DONE.
I love this album because to Rush, they were going out with a bang. They were failing. So they said “ we are going out on our own terms.”
Kaboom!!!!!
This is why i am a pre 80s Rush fan. Its the sound i laid in bed as a teen and listened over and over Young screaming Geddy and Alex guitar was more raw with less synth effects
New sub here..... Loving the honest reacts...... Now as a bassist, you MUST know Henrick Linder from Dirty Loops..... If not, that is a rabbit hole you must dive down head first.... Dirty loops Follow the Light is a great way to start featuring Cory Wong....... We are anxiously awaiting!!!
Thanks for the sub 🙏
Others have related this, but context is important here. File this under "you had to be there." Here's my take since I was.
The label gave Rush an ultimatum after the previous album, Caress of Steel: "make a radio-friendly record or else." They were 23/24-year old kids on the verge of breaking through, having to decide to either sell out or stay true to themselves. Their fanbase was small and growing. They were not a headliner.
The message they delivered to everyone was 2112. The story, the complex arrangements, Alex finding "this strange device" getting crushed by the Priests and then putting up the ultimate fight, documented in the music at the end. At this moment, the Rush army was formed: "we have assumed control."
Neil said the starman logo represents "abstract man against the masses." Thanks for the review brother. :)
Listen and watch all the versions
Best Rush album.
I agree with you 100%. It doesn't transcend the 70ies but it was damn heavy compared to pieces of that time and it is definitely required listening.
I find it interesting that the priests parts scream, and the dude who finds the guitar sings calmly!