It's one of the things that's so endearing to Rush fans - the levity they put into their shows, from the goofy opening to this tune, or the intro mini movies they act in and play coming into shows or after intermissions, the chef coming on stage to throw chickens into the rotisseries, the gorilla coming out to get some popcorn, etc. They're all just so frikkin good at what they do, but they make sure to have fun along the way and entertain the crowd! There's just no band like them!!!
Shame that they got to the party late and Neil had left but his work is there for ever to inspire us, Neil not gone forever, God just needed some drumming lessons.
He was a great cog among 2 other great cogs which made the greatest ever machine, Loved you guy guys for 40+ years.. Thanks for the good timss, even the odd numbered ones.
AND when Neil passed, Stewart Copeland hit the nail on the head when he said “Neil is the most air-drummed-to drummer of all time”. You really should dig deeper, it’s worth it.
This is Alex Lifesons master song.......he is guitar not bass and is way underrated IMO.......saw an interview with Eddie van Halen , where he was asked what’s it like being worlds best guitar player and he said I don’t know ask Alex Lifeson !!
I’ve heard about this quote and interview a million times, but no one has ever produced the video or magazine quote. I have always thought it was just a myth, especially since I have heard it attributed to many other guitarists, from Jimmy Page to Eric Clapton. Come on guys, please produce a link to this quote, whether Van Halen, Page, Clapton or any other legendary guitarist. I just can’t imagine this quote coming from EVH? It’s not that he’s arrogant or anything, he’s just one of the few musicians who have ever named Rush as an influence on his music, whereas so many younger bands have. I can’t even recall Alex Van Halen ever naming Peart as an influence, which is insane since so many other great drummers, from Grohl to Danny Carey have praised Peart to the high heavens, where he now resides (RIP Neil). All of us Rush fans know that Alex Lifeson is one of the most underrated guitarists, hell, he is the most underrated musician in his own band. Just because Rush’s music is so precisely structured, not designed like many other bands where there are simplistic progressions where the guitarist can improvise live, showing off for the crowd. In fact, La Villa Strangiato is one of the few songs where such a piece is available and boy does Alex deliver. The “A Lerxst In Wonderland” section of the song is a 7/8 time signature of a movement of two measures in F followed by two measures of A, then repeat. This gives Alex a chance to go bananas and he shows us what he’s made of. It’s not just speed, as so many people find important and the judge of a guitarists skills, but the one thing Alex shows in that segment is something EVH rarely ever showed, just pure passion and emotion that rivals the best of guitarists. Give me a guitarist who can emote with his guitar any day over a speed demon. That is one of the reasons I find Michael Schenker’s live version of the solo in “Rock Bottom” on the live album “Strangers In The Night”, one of the best live solos ever. Just so much emotion and Alex can deliver that kind of feeling too. Whereas Glenn Tipton’s studio version of the first solo in “Beyond The Realms Of Death” is similar to the kind of feeling Lifeson delivers all of the time. Tipton’s solos always seem more emotional when in studio. I have never heard him deliver the same passion on the solo in BTROD live, whereas Alex can deliver that same emotion live or in studio. As much as I love Schenker’s emoting, he seems to be far better live when improvising, than in studio. I love that Alex can deliver the same in both settings.
Is that true? I would love to see that.That would certainly be something to give Alex the respect he is due, I am only a fan, however have a couple of true player friends that have nothing but awe for Alex.I will look into it , can you send a link? Mr, Lifeson deserves those accolades in a wide spread public forum.IMO RUSH is the best rock band ever.
My understanding is that EVH said something like "Go ask Alan Holdsworth" which I think got misconstrued as Alex Lifeson as time went on. I know EVH and Alan had a fairly close personal relationship. That being said....Alex certaintly deserves that kind of elevated praise, nonetheless.
@@dalecackowski9259 In a interview with Alex his version is when Jimi Hendrix was asked what's it like to be the best guitarist in the world he replied go ask Rory Gallagher.
I've seen them three times over the years and it always felt like they were throwing a party for 30-100k of their closest friends. Great music! Great memories!
@@trainguy1017 Agreed. They took their music seriously, because they could - they had the talent to do so. That talent is also what brought their seemingly light hardheartedness... they were actually 'that good'. Other than the incredible dedication and talent... simply happy Canadian boys :-)
i'm 55. US person from Kansas. I"ve loved this band from the first introduction. In Kansas City from the Kansas side it when Kemper Arena. I was in Jr High but my parents knew I was passionate about music. I was into sports. This band became significant to me going forward. Hemispheres is how polished they are for my first time. From that perspective is where my admiration comes from. God bless my man.
I got to see Rush live in 2012 at the Barclay's Center in NYC. My best friend brought me for my 22nd birthday. By far, one of the best shows I've ever seen. Neil rushed off stage after the 1st of their 3 sets to show the sound guy how to properly mix the bass, as it was so loud it was shaking the venue. Alex's guitar malfunctioned during a song and he decided to dance on stage while he was waiting. God, I wish I could've seen them one more time. Rest In Power Neil
I was 15, 1980, permanent waves, they were followed heavily followed by bikers! We were terrified. But they shared their smoke, and treated me and my 14 yr old buddy great! Mind- blown!
Just a reminder - it's Geddy Lee on bass, Alex Lifeson on guitar. Rush has ALWAYS been a sum of the parts - no one person is truly the de facto #1. Neil, Geddy, Alex are all great at their respective roles! What you saw/heard at the beginning was the boys being the goofballs they are. Beginning a track with synthesized tuba, etc. was their way of having fun. Keeping it loose. Much like their stage setup - the dryers/vending machines/chicken rotisseries in behind Geddy are their way of exhibiting their sense of humour all the while giving an incredibly tight, high energy, perfect performance for their fans! And they NEVER let us down! Neil looks so serious because, in his words, he's running a marathon whilst doing complex mathematical calculations for all he does on the skins - try holding a smile while doing that!! For comparison's sake, this is their 'official' video of this song - it's still done live, just no crowd. To us that know the song so well, they are not playing to the studio track, but actually playing it right there. To me, besides the studio, this is a definitive version - check it: th-cam.com/video/eK1hmDpa8bo/w-d-xo.html
Rush has always parsed out as much more than the sum of its parts; their dedication to constant improvement as a business model never failed to increase my respect for the band over the years.
From what I understand, Geddy plugs his bass into the PA system, and to balance out his side (while also making fun of all of Alex’s crazy amps) they added the dryers, rotisserie chicken and at one time they had a spinning food vending machine.
RIP "The Professor" Neil Peart not only was he the drummers drummer he was also the primary lyricist of Rush. Every member of Rush was regarded as the best of their respective instruments.
Neil was so reserved, he did not want the lights on him (his song Limelight reflects that idea). At the end of the concerts, you can see him rushing-running out of the stage, to jump on his motorcycle to get to the next venue. He almost never bowed with the others at the end of a concert, to my knowledge he did bow at the very last concert of the band. Very introverted dude.
You can argue til the end of time whether he's "the greatest drummer ever". But there's no argument that he is absolutely the most professional by far. You don't get a lot of emotion from him behind the kit because he's so laser focused on playing his part perfectly. Every. Single. Time.
True dat cousin!! He still counts! You can look at his eyes and face and know that he is counting ( probably 32 or 64 to the bar... or some time sig from hell that takes it home at 49)
I saw them on this tour in Nashville, just a few days before they recorded this video in Cleveland. They had been playing together for over 40 years, and you could see that they were still having fun together. It was a magical partnership. A 3 legged stool. Everybody had to carry their weight, and no one tried to outshine the other. The opening band was Rush lol. They played about a 40 minute set, took an intermission, then played for 2 more hours with Moving Pictures played in it's entirety in sequence. One of the greatest shows of my life.
I attended the same show in Nashville. It was truly incredible. Then again wasn’t every show one was blessed to see from them? I saw every tour from Signals to the end and their music is a soundtrack to my life.
I know you haven't seen all the Classic bands like many of us old Kats have but trust me on this ... Along with Rush that really got rolling in 1974' All the Classic Prog bands... Yes, Genesis, King Crimson, Jethro Tull, Pink Floyd, ELP, Gentle Giant, Nektar and so many more played Great Concerts of 2 hrs with very complex music and as with Prog all fantastic musicians with many time signatures and long playing songs of many parts with great solos !! It was the Best time in music along with the many great Rock acts of Black Sabbath, Deep Purple, Led Zeppelin, Grand Funk, Thin Lizzy and many more. I was so lucky to live next to Boston, Ma. were Every band came to play at 3 Concert Halls and 1 Arena and with my older Brother and friends we saw everyone pretty much that came starting in 1971' and soon drove just south to NYC to see our favorites there also, my brother and I both worked at music store and back then they sold concert tickets to shows, there was no "Inner-Web" Lol then you bought them at the Concerts Halls or Music/Instrument stores ! It was a great 15+ years the 1970s into the 80s at our concerts height and easy 100 + shows easy and great memories as players ourselves we didn't get wasted like so many of the people we knew because we wanted to see all the great classic instruments and gear and remember how they were playing it !! Lol. Well I figured I'd just fill you in on how into the Classic band I am and that I was there for most of it, I was Blessed : D
Hello from New York! I know this video is a year old but I just fell into a rabbit hole of your Rush reaction videos because of Rush Week. First of all, nothing makes me happier than knowing you discovered Rush. Yes, you are late to the party but all of us Rush fans are having a great time at this party. Welcome!! Second, you GET IT! Everything you are saying is spot on. You have figured out how amazing these 3 are, what their chemistry is like together and have already found your appreciation for them. Welcome to the Rush fan club. We fans are a special breed and the best musical fans out there. Loyal and dedicated to their amazingness.
As a fellow percussionist(once upon a time), I very much enjoy your Rush reactions. Keep in mind that at the time of the two most recent rush performances you have reacted to, Alex had suffered from psoriatic arthritis in his hands and Neil, very painful tendonitis in both arms for many years. Amazing that they could still perform so brilliantly. Thank you so much for your reaction.
Totally agree - I'm 25, so I only got to see four tours in person, but the show I saw on the Time Machine Tour was my favorite. Not only were they in great shape, and not only did they play Moving Pictures front-to-back, but the energy from the crowd was crazy. I think that was partly due to the fact they were no longer touring Snakes and Arrows, which a lot of fans (I think unfairly) didn't care for, but I'm guessing it was also partly due to the documentary bringing in a lot of new fans, which is sick. It was a fan favorites tour - they were playing the bangers all the way through! I have to say, though, I'm glad that they brought back a lot of the synth-era songs in the Clockwork Angels tour - that era deserves more respect than it gets.
Great narrative, Andrew. What a bloody Tour de Force is "La Villa." Three Jedi masters playing with near technical, rhythmic perfection. No better band has ever graced a stage. If heaven has its own rock concert, these guys will be the headliners!
Neil studied under Freddie Gruber in the mid-90s (after hearing the change in Steve Smith's drumming). He toured '96 entirely on traditional, and then after the hiatus (you'll have to read about that), he got into the technique of flipping back and forth depending on the needs. So here in La Villa it is very new - he didn't play it that way originally nor when it was last revived on tour in '87-'88.
14:32 "He's a musician’s musician." Apt analysis as always, Andy. I have been a stalwart Rush fan for 32 years (I am currently 37.) My father took me to see them on the "Roll the Bones" tour in November of 1991 in Montreal when I was 5 years old, and I have been an addict ever since. They are the greatest band of all time in my humble opinion. Huge supporter of your channel for years now, Andy! If you ever make your way to Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada give me a shout. I will show you how we do it on the east coast! Much respect, brother.
In 10th grade early eighties every day after school we sat in my friend's rec room and smoked butts, ate oreos, and listened to RUSH with full attention, like we were watching a movie. Four girls. Fun. As much as I like the internet, I'm glad we didn't have it.
This to me is their best instrumental. And seeing them interacting while they create this masterpiece is just awesome. They were brothers....and are brothers. The love they have for what they do and each other is stunning to watch. No one can replace them . Hearing the tribute drummers like Danny Carey and Dave Grohl was amazing, but it wasn't Rush. That magic between the three of them is now gone. It is sad but we should be happy we had 4 decades of their magic.
I can’t remember what famous musician said it in one of their docs, but Rush were the singular bridge between, say a band like Yes or Genesis and Black Sabbath. They created a genre. Progressive Metal. Love Yes and every musician to ever play in any line up of that band is a maestro, and same holds true with Genesis, but so much of that music is self indulgent for no other reason otherthen “watch what we can do.” Rush took really complex music and arranged and presented it in such a way, that they could be rock radio staples 40 years after their release. That was their genius. Everything was unconventional, the playing, the structures, Geddy’s vpice and without mainstream support, became a world wide phenomenon.
Andrew you spoke about Neil using traditional vs matched grip. There is quite a back story to that. Neil decided (approximately mid-career) that he could get better so he began taking formal lessons again and under the tutelage of Freddie Gruber he completely broke down his playing style and rebuilt it, focusing quite a bit on playing traditional style. This is covered in a documentary and you really get a sense of how deeply committed Neil was to his craft listening to him talk about the evolution.
Bonzo couldn't hold even a portion of 1 of his drum sticks. I hope you don't think tbey're even. CLOSE to equals!! I can think of a dozen percussionists that play today that are LIGHT YEARS above Bonzo at his prime.... Hes elementary. Watch Alex Bent, Hene Hoglan, Portnoy, Lombardo, etc. Get over the Bonzo thing... Honestly.
I know I'm late to the party, but I gotta say, you really get Rush. This is what's awesome about them. They're having pure fun playing how they want, what they want, without having to do whatever's popular at the moment, and without becoming a cover band version of their younger selves. The washer motif is a self-deprecating "we're washed up" and the clocks were from their last album, Clockwork Angels. But they know time is short, and that the end is near, and so by god, they're going to enjoy it, and the more you enjoy it with them, the more joyful they become. It's a. big lovefest by a bunch of fans who wanted something different from the mainstream.
Dorky and different from the mainstream.Look at the album Signals. It starts off with Subdivisions. Teenage isolation and not fitting in. That's how most of us felt in high school. But the album ends with Countdown, and unashamed sharing of an existing event, to a geeky few. Like a "fuck you" to naysayers. "We'll write songs about the space shuttle. And you don't have to like it, but we like it.
I think the clocks were from the Time Machine tour back in '11 ? '13? Anyway, back in the day. Since Geddy goes thru front of house now, he's got no stacks. It looked lonely, so they put in washers and dryers, a rotisserie, a popcorn popper, ad infinitum. Talk about some goofy people-- but all are having fun and it sounds like friendship.
What you said close to the end is so true… there is always maybe one small bar that may get played slightly different in a 10 minute song, yet Rush fans have heard all records, songs, and concerts available so many times they know exactly what happens at any point in time. The analogy to a party of three is so on point. But the price of admission is so worth it. Spending a bit of time to try and “get it” is a small investment but with a major return. RIP Neil.
I asked ChatGPT "What is the most unusual time signature used by Rush?" One of the most unusual time signatures used by Rush is found in the song "La Villa Strangiato" from the album Hemispheres (1978). This instrumental track contains multiple complex time signatures, including 5/4, 7/8, 9/8, and 10/8, all within various sections of the song. Perhaps the most striking section is one that uses 13/8, which is quite rare and complex even by progressive rock standards. The shifting and unconventional time signatures throughout "La Villa Strangiato" make it one of the band’s most technically intricate and rhythmically challenging compositions. Rush’s use of complex and non-standard time signatures like 13/8, and their ability to blend them into their music seamlessly, has contributed to their reputation for musical innovation.
The wall of dryers/washers was a reaction to all the bands in history who had giant walls of amps behind them and since nowadays you don't need walls of amps because of the whole in-ear thingies Rush decided to replace those amp walls with something completely different.
Rush is my favorite band of all time, and Neil is my favorite drummer. But, those those things behind Geddy and Alex aren’t actually washing machines. They’re amps with screens on them that are playing a video. They made them look like that, to fit with the steampunk theme of this tour.
Two things (at least) to check out. "Beyond the Lighted Stage", a doc about Rush featuring the band themselves, and a quick vid on TH-cam called "When Rush Met Led Zepplin". Very cool, very funny. Love your channel, thanks :)
At 11:40, when you said, "this is not commercial," I was reminded that this song's subtitle is "An Exercise in Self-Indulgence." Also, when they released their fourth album "2112" in 1976, the record company wanted a commercial album because the first 3 albums had not sold well. So, Rush decided to fill the entire first side of the album with an epic 20-minute song about an alien civilization. It sold better than their previous albums. Apparently, the record company decided, astonishingly, that they would make more money if they left the band in charge of what to put on future albums.
Hey Andrew, I have been a Rush fan since 1987 so much of what you notice is what took me a life time to notice. KUDOs to you for picking up so many of the subtle things that go on during a concert and between the guys.
I think this is the tour for the album "Clock Work Angels", which had a clock face pointing to 9:12 or "21:12". "2112" was an earlier album of theirs. I think the clocks in the drier are set to 21:12.
Rush became a Super group the minute Neil joined. They are all masters not just in their instruments but in their song writing. I cannot think of a song they wrote that is skippable. Even their "lesser" songs are still incredible. Their albums from start to finish are masterpieces Rush just might be the greatest band ever.
I'm in partial agreement but man, it was hard to get excited in the mid to late 80s during geddys keyboard synthesizer phase. My only complaint if I must give one
Very insightful observations, from musicianship to the fan experience. You're clearly well rounded & I love your enthusiasm. Well done, & looking forward to more.
IVE BEEN A RUSH FAN FOR 45 YEARS AND LUCKY ENOUGH TO SEEN THEM LIVE A DOZEN TIMES.NEIL IS SO HUMBLE ABOUT HIS TALENT THAT HE WOULD NOT ACT KNOWLEDGE THE FACT THAT HE IS THE BEST. HE ALWAYS GAVE THAT TITLE TO BUDDY RICH HIS IDOL.NEIL COULD CREAT MUSIC POUNDING ON JUST ABOUT ANYTHING ACHIEVEMENT OF A TRUE PROCESSIONS.
Man, poor Geddy's voice was shredded that tour. Neil played on the "Burnin' with Buddy Rich Tour" a drummer whom he admired greatly and eventually studied under Freddie Gruber in order to add more jazz technique to his arsenal. Neil was both master and a lifelong student of percussion and of life. RIP.
I've seen Rush about a half dozen times, and don't recall hearing them play La Villa Strangiato. This was a treat as I've never seen this performance, and rare to see Rush do some improv up there. Really cool.
La Villa in concert gave them all a chance to really show their musical chops. I was at the Greenville SC show for this tour and they really let it roll when they played this. Just incredible to see it live.
There are bands, there are musicians and there are bands with musicians that define music and playing together completely in sync. There are songs on an album that are mixed with software and magicians sliding pots...then there is live playing. So many "Ohh FAWK" moments in a Rush song, and countless "Ohh FAWK' moments in a Rush concert. This IS live playing by definition.
This IS an Alex Lifeson Song!! Being more of a guitar lover, Alex Is sensational, at his craft. Never really touted or boasted, he musical nuance is spotlighted, in "La Villa Strangiato"! What a Classic! Like Steve Gadd, he can play subtle slow and melodic chords than explode into shreds, of beautiful solos, SO many SOLOS!!. Just Amazing!! Thanks for the EAR Candy (and visuals)! Thanks for your Patreons!
I am not a drummer, but I do remember friends from high school and college that were drummers in bands and when they would bring up the latest complicated songs that they had learned on drums, the conversation would inevitably end with the question 'Yes, but can you play La Villa Strangiato?'.
I always love to watch a new person to Rush. I have been a fan since 1979. I love a lot of bands. Rush is by far my favotite. Separate class. Your favorite bands favorite band. Welcome to the rabbit hole.
@@AndrewRooneyDrums haha iam sure. my fav band and Neil was such an inspiration and a "life-idol" for me. as a drummer that i am but also as a lyricist and a writer
Just so you know, the "Official" Rush video was taken from a live performance while preparing for their Hemispheres tour, so it's actually much closer to the original on the album. Still, any performance is spectacular. I saw Rush between 20 & 25 times over the years, and their live shows were exhilarating! The actually credited their time opening for KISS as far as putting everything they had into their concerts. One other thing... For "garage bands" in the US, Rush was IT!. Every high school band played Working Man in the 70s & 80s! But if a band could get La Villa right... Well, Mike Portnoy said that when he finally got it right, that it was a special time for him!
I wouldn't have a clue about drumming Andrew, but I really enjoy hearing your explanations on the techniques on show. And I just love to see your enjoyment of the bands I grew up loving, like Rush, Sabbath and the like. Cheers from across the ditch !
Another tribute to Neil, one of his final shorter solos came in the middle section of yet another great instrumental, WHERE'S MY THING, HERE IT IS. live in Dallas, with another great bass start to the tune by Geddy Lee. Yet again Alex and Geddy getting the crowd involved. Best wishes from the cold wet north east coast of England.
Background story of this song. This was after the success of 2112, so they wanted to write a new and complex song. They recorded it in multiple tracks, apart and different days. They realized afterwards that they were not good enough to play it live (all at once and together). It became their goal to be good enough to play this song live for their fans. As you can see, they have.
For your comment about "3 men at a party", you have to check out a short video documentary called "Dinner With Rush" to see these guys and the connection they have with each other as only true friendship brings.
Don’t know if anybody already said it but the clocks and not dryers is the time machine I saw them on this tour they played for three hours with a small break In The middle most amazing show ever blew my fukkin brains out.. Rush lives forever 🤘😬🤘
Rush...my favorite band since 1981. Neil inspired me to practice my drums for hours every day. Saw them live 20 times, including the Cleveland time machine show. So thankful to be able to relive it on video. I miss anxiously awaiting the next album or show. I miss Rush...
Another great reaction! I like your mind blown reaction when the song kicked in and then the other surprises along the way. Definitely one of the best all time bands hands down especially live, can I see "A Show of Hands"? lol (The title of a good live show by them late 80's). I enjoy seeing your journey with this band.
A long, long time ago I had a drum teacher. He was a lovely guy and played with some pretty big names at the time. When I first went to his studio he had a video playing Rush - I think the song was Marathon - his screen was opposite his drum kit to aid students. Anyway, we discussed Rush and obviously I was a big fan too. He then asked me if there was song or a few bars of a song I'd like to discuss. So I played the drum part during Alex's solo of LVS and he looked a bit surprised. He then asked me if I could write it down, which I did. Even with the music in front of him he couldn't play it and we had a good laugh about it. It just showed that the way Neil thought about his drumming was almost mathematical and you had to think that way too. Once you did, it clicked. I played in a few bands, nothing huge, and got to know the great Robin Jones. Robin was one of the best drummers in the world, yet few people have heard of him, and he knew my limitations but was always so polite - he died not so long ago RIP. I mention him because even though NP was a great drummer, with incredible chops, I would much preferred to have been a Robin Jones type drummer and not know how to play LVS. Robin was a friend of Buddy Rich. I first saw BR when I was 16 and sat on the closest table to him during the show. It was the greatest musical experience of my life. All of my heroes, NP included, are pretty much dead now sadly. VC is still alive which is one blessing. I don't play anymore - I retired at 27 :-) FYI th-cam.com/video/3x_2gv0j4G4/w-d-xo.html Robin Jones back in the early 70s.
First record I ever bought (with the money I got for my 14th birthday) Permanent Waves. I'm 58 now, and I still love it, along with all the other albums from Rush to Clockwork Angels. I only got to see them live once. That was in Berlin on the Clockwork Angels tour. I'm sure Geddy and Alex are still jamming and making music but I think Rush saddly died with Niel RIP buddy your words inspired a lot of people.
Just imagine the luxury of having someone with Alex's talent playing 3rd fiddle in your band? Rush is so good, Alex is frequently left out of the conversation even though everybody knows he is incredible and always has been. The guy has been spot on for decades and fulfills his role perfectly. He takes is on little rides. Small solos. Big solos. Holds the rhythem, Complicated. Not so complicated. Fades back when Neil or Getty need to step forward. Takes center stage. Plays in unison to bring more out of a song. He is and they are incredible by any measure. Consumate professionals, performers, entertainers, musicians and composers.
You asked what they were throwing to the crowd, and then mentioned the dryers on Geddy's backline. The dryers are there because Geddy started playing through rack-mounted amps, speaker emulators and DI to the mixing boards... He had nothing behind him on stage anymore, so he thought of something to put there. Dryers, vending machines, rotisserie chicken ovens, a steampunk sausage maker... On the tours where he had dryers on stage, they put T-shirts (unique designs, not available from merchandise stalls) in the dryers to make it look right. They were throwing those T-shirts.
You hit the nail on the head! Right from Flight at night through moving pictures, that’s what I love about this band. Not commercial. Check out 2112 and the beginning of anthem rock.
As mentioned in the comments about Neil's traditional instead of regular rock grip - Neil, one of rock's GOATs (at the time!), went back to learn from some Jazz masters to reinvent himself and how to play a different style. Yes, he was that dedication to the craft. RUSH is what happens when you get 3 talented friends who stay together as a band and try to impress and outdo each other with their skills. I'm from Canada, and we get a lot of 3 piece bands here (Rush, Triumph, etc) because our population vs size is small... so if you happen to find some people who can play with you, you stay together and do your best.
He was a fan of Buddy Rich and was asked to play at a tribute show, he sought out a student of Buddy’s and learned how to play traditional grip like one of his influences. He then began using it in Rush. An established drummer adding another tool to his toolbox.
definitely one of the hardest working bands of the time and best drummers of all time not to mention geddy lee and alex in there own right. Always enjoy listening to the classics
The clocks were because it was the Clockwork Angels tour. The dryers were sometimes replaced with rotisserie chicken ovens, a popcorn cart, or other peculiar items.
It is personally exciting for me to watch someone explore this particular song in the way, in the sarcastic way, Rush did this go around. The original is epic, but I csn only imagine playing this in every city on a tour. Can anyone imagine how tired you would be after three hours? Not just RUSH, of course, just the level of energy and enthusiasm for the music.
FYI, Geddy Lee is bass, keyboards, pedal bass and vocals. Alex Lifeson is the guitarist. He also played keyboard and pedals in the mid to later tours. I think the words you were looking for to describe Neil is that he is a "working man" at drums. :P Even though he didn't write the lyrics to that one, since it was off the album Rutsey played drums on, just prior to Neil joining them.
It's one of the things that's so endearing to Rush fans - the levity they put into their shows, from the goofy opening to this tune, or the intro mini movies they act in and play coming into shows or after intermissions, the chef coming on stage to throw chickens into the rotisseries, the gorilla coming out to get some popcorn, etc. They're all just so frikkin good at what they do, but they make sure to have fun along the way and entertain the crowd! There's just no band like them!!!
Alex is just so watchable.
So many discovering Rush after the final curtain has come down. RIP Neil.
Yes Dan! Glad to be here!
They came to stl on my bday one year. Was super stoked. Will never get how these guys aren’t more known
Shame that they got to the party late and Neil had left but his work is there for ever to inspire us, Neil not gone forever, God just needed some drumming lessons.
He was a great cog among 2 other great cogs which made the greatest ever machine, Loved you guy guys for 40+ years.. Thanks for the good timss, even the odd numbered ones.
AND when Neil passed, Stewart Copeland hit the nail on the head when he said “Neil is the most air-drummed-to drummer of all time”. You really should dig deeper, it’s worth it.
This is Alex Lifesons master song.......he is guitar not bass and is way underrated IMO.......saw an interview with Eddie van Halen , where he was asked what’s it like being worlds best guitar player and he said I don’t know ask Alex Lifeson !!
did that really happen? Eddy is a classy guy. David Lee Roth must have been one hell of an ass to force that break-up
I’ve heard about this quote and interview a million times, but no one has ever produced the video or magazine quote. I have always thought it was just a myth, especially since I have heard it attributed to many other guitarists, from Jimmy Page to Eric Clapton.
Come on guys, please produce a link to this quote, whether Van Halen, Page, Clapton or any other legendary guitarist. I just can’t imagine this quote coming from EVH?
It’s not that he’s arrogant or anything, he’s just one of the few musicians who have ever named Rush as an influence on his music, whereas so many younger bands have.
I can’t even recall Alex Van Halen ever naming Peart as an influence, which is insane since so many other great drummers, from Grohl to Danny Carey have praised Peart to the high heavens, where he now resides (RIP Neil).
All of us Rush fans know that Alex Lifeson is one of the most underrated guitarists, hell, he is the most underrated musician in his own band. Just because Rush’s music is so precisely structured, not designed like many other bands where there are simplistic progressions where the guitarist can improvise live, showing off for the crowd.
In fact, La Villa Strangiato is one of the few songs where such a piece is available and boy does Alex deliver. The “A Lerxst In Wonderland” section of the song is a 7/8 time signature of a movement of two measures in F followed by two measures of A, then repeat.
This gives Alex a chance to go bananas and he shows us what he’s made of. It’s not just speed, as so many people find important and the judge of a guitarists skills, but the one thing Alex shows in that segment is something EVH rarely ever showed, just pure passion and emotion that rivals the best of guitarists.
Give me a guitarist who can emote with his guitar any day over a speed demon. That is one of the reasons I find Michael Schenker’s live version of the solo in “Rock Bottom” on the live album “Strangers In The Night”, one of the best live solos ever.
Just so much emotion and Alex can deliver that kind of feeling too. Whereas Glenn Tipton’s studio version of the first solo in “Beyond The Realms Of Death” is similar to the kind of feeling Lifeson delivers all of the time.
Tipton’s solos always seem more emotional when in studio. I have never heard him deliver the same passion on the solo in BTROD live, whereas Alex can deliver that same emotion live or in studio.
As much as I love Schenker’s emoting, he seems to be far better live when improvising, than in studio. I love that Alex can deliver the same in both settings.
Is that true? I would love to see that.That would certainly be something to give Alex the respect he is due, I am only a fan, however have a couple of true player friends that have nothing but awe for Alex.I will look into it , can you send a link? Mr, Lifeson deserves those accolades in a wide spread public forum.IMO RUSH is the best rock band ever.
My understanding is that EVH said something like "Go ask Alan Holdsworth" which I think got misconstrued as Alex Lifeson as time went on. I know EVH and Alan had a fairly close personal relationship.
That being said....Alex certaintly deserves that kind of elevated praise, nonetheless.
@@dalecackowski9259 In a interview with Alex his version is when Jimi Hendrix was asked what's it like to be the best guitarist in the world he replied go ask Rory Gallagher.
That look on Andrew's face is the same look on Rush fans' faces...even when listening to "La Villa Strangiato" for the bazillionth time. It just is.
Great Lance!
Rush fans are some of the most dedicated and hardcore fans out there. Even the idols idolizes Rush. They're just too awesome! We miss you Neil!
Indeed RIP Neil!
People think Rush is super serious, and a lot of times they are, but their sense of humor is always present as well.
They took their music seriously. Themselves.... not so much!
I've seen them three times over the years and it always felt like they were throwing a party for 30-100k of their closest friends. Great music! Great memories!
Study the album covers for lots of "hidden" treats...
@@trainguy1017 Agreed. They took their music seriously, because they could - they had the talent to do so. That talent is also what brought their seemingly light hardheartedness... they were actually 'that good'. Other than the incredible dedication and talent... simply happy Canadian boys :-)
Typical Canadian. Light hearted and witty
Who would have thought three guys could create a sound like this -- from a proud Canadian
Agreed Phil!
i'm 55. US person from Kansas. I"ve loved this band from the first introduction. In Kansas City from the Kansas side it when Kemper Arena. I was in Jr High but my parents knew I was passionate about music. I was into sports. This band became significant to me going forward. Hemispheres is how polished they are for my first time. From that perspective is where my admiration comes from. God bless my man.
Alex Lifeson is underrated, facts. This guy can do it all, flawlessly and live too! Great reaction! ❤️🎶❤️
I got to see Rush live in 2012 at the Barclay's Center in NYC. My best friend brought me for my 22nd birthday. By far, one of the best shows I've ever seen. Neil rushed off stage after the 1st of their 3 sets to show the sound guy how to properly mix the bass, as it was so loud it was shaking the venue. Alex's guitar malfunctioned during a song and he decided to dance on stage while he was waiting. God, I wish I could've seen them one more time. Rest In Power Neil
Great memories Nick!
I was 15, 1980, permanent waves, they were followed heavily followed by bikers! We were terrified. But they shared their smoke, and treated me and my 14 yr old buddy great! Mind- blown!
Just a reminder - it's Geddy Lee on bass, Alex Lifeson on guitar.
Rush has ALWAYS been a sum of the parts - no one person is truly the de facto #1. Neil, Geddy, Alex are all great at their respective roles!
What you saw/heard at the beginning was the boys being the goofballs they are. Beginning a track with synthesized tuba, etc. was their way of having fun. Keeping it loose. Much like their stage setup - the dryers/vending machines/chicken rotisseries in behind Geddy are their way of exhibiting their sense of humour all the while giving an incredibly tight, high energy, perfect performance for their fans! And they NEVER let us down!
Neil looks so serious because, in his words, he's running a marathon whilst doing complex mathematical calculations for all he does on the skins - try holding a smile while doing that!!
For comparison's sake, this is their 'official' video of this song - it's still done live, just no crowd. To us that know the song so well, they are not playing to the studio track, but actually playing it right there.
To me, besides the studio, this is a definitive version - check it:
th-cam.com/video/eK1hmDpa8bo/w-d-xo.html
Yo! Thank you so much Darren! Great info
@@AndrewRooneyDrums anytime good sir! Just glad you're back to some Rush! Merry Christmas - all the best to you and yours.
Rush has always parsed out as much more than the sum of its parts; their dedication to constant improvement as a business model never failed to increase my respect for the band over the years.
I think he was more referring to the base pedal part Alex was playing at the very beginning
From what I understand, Geddy plugs his bass into the PA system, and to balance out his side (while also making fun of all of Alex’s crazy amps) they added the dryers, rotisserie chicken and at one time they had a spinning food vending machine.
RIP "The Professor" Neil Peart not only was he the drummers drummer he was also the primary lyricist of Rush.
Every member of Rush was regarded as the best of their respective instruments.
Neil was so reserved, he did not want the lights on him (his song Limelight reflects that idea). At the end of the concerts, you can see him rushing-running out of the stage, to jump on his motorcycle to get to the next venue. He almost never bowed with the others at the end of a concert, to my knowledge he did bow at the very last concert of the band. Very introverted dude.
You can argue til the end of time whether he's "the greatest drummer ever". But there's no argument that he is absolutely the most professional by far. You don't get a lot of emotion from him behind the kit because he's so laser focused on playing his part perfectly. Every. Single. Time.
I dig that Kevin!
@@AndrewRooneyDrums Neil also wrote the lyrics to all of their songs.
Steve Gadd is a little like that too =does not smile and does the job. Like your comment a lot.
True dat cousin!! He still counts! You can look at his eyes and face and know that he is counting ( probably 32 or 64 to the bar... or some time sig from hell that takes it home at 49)
@@ronaldviens7862 I am from Australia and never heard "true dat " -- great word [ AMERICAN ?] jASON .
I saw them on this tour in Nashville, just a few days before they recorded this video in Cleveland. They had been playing together for over 40 years, and you could see that they were still having fun together. It was a magical partnership. A 3 legged stool. Everybody had to carry their weight, and no one tried to outshine the other. The opening band was Rush lol. They played about a 40 minute set, took an intermission, then played for 2 more hours with Moving Pictures played in it's entirety in sequence. One of the greatest shows of my life.
I attended the same show in Nashville. It was truly incredible.
Then again wasn’t every show one was blessed to see from them? I saw every tour from Signals to the end and their music is a soundtrack to my life.
I know you haven't seen all the Classic bands like many of us old Kats have but trust me on this ...
Along with Rush that really got rolling in 1974' All the Classic Prog bands... Yes, Genesis, King Crimson,
Jethro Tull, Pink Floyd, ELP, Gentle Giant, Nektar and so many more played Great Concerts of 2 hrs with very complex music and as with Prog all fantastic musicians with many time signatures and long playing songs of many parts with great solos !! It was the Best time in music along with the many great Rock acts of Black Sabbath, Deep Purple, Led Zeppelin, Grand Funk, Thin Lizzy and many more. I was so lucky to live next to Boston, Ma. were Every band came to play at 3 Concert Halls and 1 Arena and with my older Brother and friends we saw everyone pretty much that came starting in 1971' and soon drove just south to NYC to see our favorites there also, my brother and I both worked at music store and back then they sold concert tickets to shows, there was no "Inner-Web" Lol then you bought them at the Concerts Halls or Music/Instrument stores ! It was a great 15+ years the 1970s into the 80s at our concerts height and easy 100 + shows easy and great memories as players ourselves we didn't get wasted like so many of the people we knew because we wanted to see all the great classic instruments and gear and remember how they were playing it !! Lol. Well I figured I'd just fill you in on how into the Classic band I am and that I was there for most of it, I was Blessed : D
This went from drummer reacts to Neil to drummer reacts to whole band lol love it! Love Rush!!
HAHA! Yeah the whole band is completely new to me so really interesting for me :)
Hello from New York! I know this video is a year old but I just fell into a rabbit hole of your Rush reaction videos because of Rush Week. First of all, nothing makes me happier than knowing you discovered Rush. Yes, you are late to the party but all of us Rush fans are having a great time at this party. Welcome!! Second, you GET IT! Everything you are saying is spot on. You have figured out how amazing these 3 are, what their chemistry is like together and have already found your appreciation for them. Welcome to the Rush fan club. We fans are a special breed and the best musical fans out there. Loyal and dedicated to their amazingness.
As a fellow percussionist(once upon a time), I very much enjoy your Rush reactions. Keep in mind that at the time of the two most recent rush performances you have reacted to, Alex had suffered from psoriatic arthritis in his hands and Neil, very painful tendonitis in both arms for many years. Amazing that they could still perform so brilliantly. Thank you so much for your reaction.
This tour was one their best. They were absolutely playing really well. Rush fans do you agree? The laundry equipment was so funny too.
Love the laundry gag
Totally agree - I'm 25, so I only got to see four tours in person, but the show I saw on the Time Machine Tour was my favorite. Not only were they in great shape, and not only did they play Moving Pictures front-to-back, but the energy from the crowd was crazy. I think that was partly due to the fact they were no longer touring Snakes and Arrows, which a lot of fans (I think unfairly) didn't care for, but I'm guessing it was also partly due to the documentary bringing in a lot of new fans, which is sick. It was a fan favorites tour - they were playing the bangers all the way through! I have to say, though, I'm glad that they brought back a lot of the synth-era songs in the Clockwork Angels tour - that era deserves more respect than it gets.
Are lifeson lee and peart the only ones who know that a time machine is a clock powered by a nuclear gas dryer?
If you have not figured it out by now these are are goofballs at heart and love doing off the wall fun stuff like that opening.
It’s funny to see a person drop chickens into the machines while they play.
I love the goofiness/fun side of it Mark!
Great narrative, Andrew. What a bloody Tour de Force is "La Villa." Three Jedi masters playing with near technical, rhythmic perfection. No better band has ever graced a stage. If heaven has its own rock concert, these guys will be the headliners!
Neil studied under Freddie Gruber in the mid-90s (after hearing the change in Steve Smith's drumming). He toured '96 entirely on traditional, and then after the hiatus (you'll have to read about that), he got into the technique of flipping back and forth depending on the needs. So here in La Villa it is very new - he didn't play it that way originally nor when it was last revived on tour in '87-'88.
14:32 "He's a musician’s musician." Apt analysis as always, Andy. I have been a stalwart Rush fan for 32 years (I am currently 37.) My father took me to see them on the "Roll the Bones" tour in November of 1991 in Montreal when I was 5 years old, and I have been an addict ever since. They are the greatest band of all time in my humble opinion. Huge supporter of your channel for years now, Andy! If you ever make your way to Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada give me a shout. I will show you how we do it on the east coast! Much respect, brother.
In 10th grade early eighties every day after school we sat in my friend's rec room and smoked butts, ate oreos, and listened to RUSH with full attention, like we were watching a movie. Four girls. Fun. As much as I like the internet, I'm glad we didn't have it.
This to me is their best instrumental. And seeing them interacting while they create this masterpiece is just awesome. They were brothers....and are brothers. The love they have for what they do and each other is stunning to watch. No one can replace them . Hearing the tribute drummers like Danny Carey and Dave Grohl was amazing, but it wasn't Rush. That magic between the three of them is now gone. It is sad but we should be happy we had 4 decades of their magic.
“Pure passion” Couldn’t describe Rush any better 💜❤️💙
I can’t remember what famous musician said it in one of their docs, but Rush were the singular bridge between, say a band like Yes or Genesis and Black Sabbath. They created a genre. Progressive Metal. Love Yes and every musician to ever play in any line up of that band is a maestro, and same holds true with Genesis, but so much of that music is self indulgent for no other reason otherthen “watch what we can do.”
Rush took really complex music and arranged and presented it in such a way, that they could be rock radio staples 40 years after their release. That was their genius. Everything was unconventional, the playing, the structures, Geddy’s vpice and without mainstream support, became a world wide phenomenon.
Andrew you spoke about Neil using traditional vs matched grip. There is quite a back story to that. Neil decided (approximately mid-career) that he could get better so he began taking formal lessons again and under the tutelage of Freddie Gruber he completely broke down his playing style and rebuilt it, focusing quite a bit on playing traditional style. This is covered in a documentary and you really get a sense of how deeply committed Neil was to his craft listening to him talk about the evolution.
This version is absolutely blistering. Nice reaction.
Neil Peart and John Bonham are my idols for rock drumming, absolutely the best...
2 of the greats Nico!
Bonzo couldn't hold even a portion of 1 of his drum sticks. I hope you don't think tbey're even. CLOSE to equals!! I can think of a dozen percussionists that play today that are LIGHT YEARS above Bonzo at his prime.... Hes elementary. Watch Alex Bent, Hene Hoglan, Portnoy, Lombardo, etc. Get over the Bonzo thing... Honestly.
@@travo2112 Don't worry, nowadays I dig Portnoy and that Porcupine Tree guy, Gavin Harrison too, you know 🙂
@@travo2112You forgot Keith Moon and among the actual drummer Danny Carey from Tool 🤘
I know I'm late to the party, but I gotta say, you really get Rush. This is what's awesome about them. They're having pure fun playing how they want, what they want, without having to do whatever's popular at the moment, and without becoming a cover band version of their younger selves. The washer motif is a self-deprecating "we're washed up" and the clocks were from their last album, Clockwork Angels. But they know time is short, and that the end is near, and so by god, they're going to enjoy it, and the more you enjoy it with them, the more joyful they become. It's a. big lovefest by a bunch of fans who wanted something different from the mainstream.
Dorky and different from the mainstream.Look at the album Signals. It starts off with Subdivisions. Teenage isolation and not fitting in. That's how most of us felt in high school. But the album ends with Countdown, and unashamed sharing of an existing event, to a geeky few. Like a "fuck you" to naysayers. "We'll write songs about the space shuttle. And you don't have to like it, but we like it.
I think the clocks were from the Time Machine tour back in '11 ? '13? Anyway, back in the day. Since Geddy goes thru front of house now, he's got no stacks. It looked lonely, so they put in washers and dryers, a rotisserie, a popcorn popper, ad infinitum. Talk about some goofy people-- but all are having fun and it sounds like friendship.
What you said close to the end is so true… there is always maybe one small bar that may get played slightly different in a 10 minute song, yet Rush fans have heard all records, songs, and concerts available so many times they know exactly what happens at any point in time. The analogy to a party of three is so on point. But the price of admission is so worth it. Spending a bit of time to try and “get it” is a small investment but with a major return. RIP Neil.
Hemispheres is my favorite Rush album. Glad you got to see this!!!
The friendship between the band members spilled over into their fans.
🙌
This song still has the best guitar solo, beyond superb drumming and ferocious basslines. Fave song from Rush, great one ❤❤❤
I asked ChatGPT "What is the most unusual time signature used by Rush?"
One of the most unusual time signatures used by Rush is found in the song "La Villa Strangiato" from the album Hemispheres (1978). This instrumental track contains multiple complex time signatures, including 5/4, 7/8, 9/8, and 10/8, all within various sections of the song.
Perhaps the most striking section is one that uses 13/8, which is quite rare and complex even by progressive rock standards. The shifting and unconventional time signatures throughout "La Villa Strangiato" make it one of the band’s most technically intricate and rhythmically challenging compositions.
Rush’s use of complex and non-standard time signatures like 13/8, and their ability to blend them into their music seamlessly, has contributed to their reputation for musical innovation.
100%
The wall of dryers/washers was a reaction to all the bands in history who had giant walls of amps behind them and since nowadays you don't need walls of amps because of the whole in-ear thingies Rush decided to replace those amp walls with something completely different.
🤣🤣👌
Thanks for your continued interest in Rush! Live is the best! 3 extraordinarily talented musicians! Rush Week!!!!
Rush is my favorite band of all time, and Neil is my favorite drummer. But, those those things behind Geddy and Alex aren’t actually washing machines. They’re amps with screens on them that are playing a video. They made them look like that, to fit with the steampunk theme of this tour.
HAHA Love it
No, they were actual washing machines. It’s part of their sense of humor.
You must be trippin' balls!
Two things (at least) to check out. "Beyond the Lighted Stage", a doc about Rush featuring the band themselves, and a quick vid on TH-cam called "When Rush Met Led Zepplin". Very cool, very funny. Love your channel, thanks :)
At 11:40, when you said, "this is not commercial," I was reminded that this song's subtitle is "An Exercise in Self-Indulgence." Also, when they released their fourth album "2112" in 1976, the record company wanted a commercial album because the first 3 albums had not sold well. So, Rush decided to fill the entire first side of the album with an epic 20-minute song about an alien civilization. It sold better than their previous albums. Apparently, the record company decided, astonishingly, that they would make more money if they left the band in charge of what to put on future albums.
Hey Andrew, I have been a Rush fan since 1987 so much of what you notice is what took me a life time to notice. KUDOs to you for picking up so many of the subtle things that go on during a concert and between the guys.
The transition from one instrumental to another is perfection.
Ok man your staring to get Rush! The way you described them in this reaction is very accurate.
Wahoo! 🥁🙌
I think this is the tour for the album "Clock Work Angels", which had a clock face pointing to 9:12 or "21:12". "2112" was an earlier album of theirs. I think the clocks in the drier are set to 21:12.
Rush became a Super group the minute Neil joined. They are all masters not just in their instruments but in their song writing. I cannot think of a song they wrote that is skippable. Even their "lesser" songs are still incredible. Their albums from start to finish are masterpieces Rush just might be the greatest band ever.
I'm in partial agreement but man, it was hard to get excited in the mid to late 80s during geddys keyboard synthesizer phase. My only complaint if I must give one
This was the “Time Machine “ tour, thus the clocks on stage
I can't believe I didn't click HAHA
@@AndrewRooneyDrums Plus, the tuba and accordion intro ties back to the concert intro, also Time Machine-themed.
@@barrycooke5693 Look up "The Real History of Rush" on TH-cam. If the music didn't work out, they had a great shot at comedy.
@@brentscott5359 you mean the real history of RASH?
@@seanbeadles7421 YES, YES YES!!!
Very insightful observations, from musicianship to the fan experience. You're clearly well rounded & I love your enthusiasm. Well done, & looking forward to more.
RE: Neil - "almost invisible to me, in a good way..." EXACTLY what makes him the GOAT!!! RIP NEIL
Typical Rush humor at the beginning !!!! : D
HAHA Ronnie!
Such an amazing band. Sad the times are past, but so glad to have had the opportunity to witness RUSH live a couple of times.
IVE BEEN A RUSH FAN FOR 45 YEARS AND LUCKY ENOUGH TO SEEN THEM LIVE A DOZEN TIMES.NEIL IS SO HUMBLE ABOUT HIS TALENT THAT HE WOULD NOT ACT KNOWLEDGE THE FACT THAT HE IS THE BEST. HE ALWAYS GAVE THAT TITLE TO BUDDY RICH HIS IDOL.NEIL COULD CREAT MUSIC POUNDING ON JUST ABOUT ANYTHING ACHIEVEMENT OF A TRUE PROCESSIONS.
Man, poor Geddy's voice was shredded that tour. Neil played on the "Burnin' with Buddy Rich Tour" a drummer whom he admired greatly and eventually studied under Freddie Gruber in order to add more jazz technique to his arsenal. Neil was both master and a lifelong student of percussion and of life. RIP.
Freddie was who pointed him towards trad grip. Very evident in the Burning for Buddy session.
I've seen Rush about a half dozen times, and don't recall hearing them play La Villa Strangiato. This was a treat as I've never seen this performance, and rare to see Rush do some improv up there. Really cool.
La Villa in concert gave them all a chance to really show their musical chops. I was at the Greenville SC show for this tour and they really let it roll when they played this. Just incredible to see it live.
There are bands, there are musicians and there are bands with musicians that define music and playing together completely in sync. There are songs on an album that are mixed with software and magicians sliding pots...then there is live playing. So many "Ohh FAWK" moments in a Rush song, and countless "Ohh FAWK' moments in a Rush concert. This IS live playing by definition.
This ENTIRE SONG IS *PURE* BADASSERY!!!
Yeah man
This IS an Alex Lifeson Song!! Being more of a guitar lover, Alex Is sensational, at his craft. Never really touted or boasted, he musical nuance is spotlighted, in "La Villa Strangiato"! What a Classic! Like Steve Gadd, he can play subtle slow and melodic chords than explode into shreds, of beautiful solos, SO many SOLOS!!. Just Amazing!! Thanks for the EAR Candy (and visuals)! Thanks for your Patreons!
One of the best songs i´ve ever heard. Maybe the best. Flamenco, Rock, Blues, Jazz, Big band. All in one track.
Yup it's a journey!
I am not a drummer, but I do remember friends from high school and college that were drummers in bands and when they would bring up the latest complicated songs that they had learned on drums, the conversation would inevitably end with the question 'Yes, but can you play La Villa Strangiato?'.
I always love to watch a new person to Rush. I have been a fan since 1979. I love a lot of bands. Rush is by far my favotite. Separate class.
Your favorite bands favorite band.
Welcome to the rabbit hole.
Good to be in the rabbit hole Bryan!
Thank you so much for this one! one of the best instrumental songs ever!
Thanks for listening George!
@@AndrewRooneyDrums i am always watching and listening my friend :-) keep on doing what you're dong ;-)
@@geegor666 Plenty more Rush on the way!
@@AndrewRooneyDrums haha iam sure. my fav band and Neil was such an inspiration and a "life-idol" for me. as a drummer that i am but also as a lyricist and a writer
Just so you know, the "Official" Rush video was taken from a live performance while preparing for their Hemispheres tour, so it's actually much closer to the original on the album. Still, any performance is spectacular. I saw Rush between 20 & 25 times over the years, and their live shows were exhilarating! The actually credited their time opening for KISS as far as putting everything they had into their concerts. One other thing... For "garage bands" in the US, Rush was IT!. Every high school band played Working Man in the 70s & 80s! But if a band could get La Villa right... Well, Mike Portnoy said that when he finally got it right, that it was a special time for him!
Wow... They sound so amazing live..
Probably my favourite Rush song, as Hemispheres was the first Rush album i bought - I was 16
I wouldn't have a clue about drumming Andrew, but I really enjoy hearing your explanations on the techniques on show. And I just love to see your enjoyment of the bands I grew up loving, like Rush, Sabbath and the like. Cheers from across the ditch !
What a performance by Alex Lifeson! This guy is a guitar god!
That solo was so clean and emotive.
🇨🇦 Canadian Rock Gods on top of the world 🇨🇦. Glad to live in the era of the three guys
Another tribute to Neil, one of his final shorter solos came in the middle section of yet another great instrumental, WHERE'S MY THING, HERE IT IS. live in Dallas, with another great bass start to the tune by Geddy Lee. Yet again Alex and Geddy getting the crowd involved. Best wishes from the cold wet north east coast of England.
Background story of this song. This was after the success of 2112, so they wanted to write a new and complex song. They recorded it in multiple tracks, apart and different days. They realized afterwards that they were not good enough to play it live (all at once and together). It became their goal to be good enough to play this song live for their fans. As you can see, they have.
One of my favorite Rush songs!
Excellent Xavier!
I really enjoy the way you get caught up in the Rush magic. Makes me smile. Thanks for this.
Neil and Geddy were such a TIGHT rhythm section! That thae relationship incorporated the lead singer and main lyracyst was such a bonus!
Neil is and was one of the best.he is surely missed. Rip
For your comment about "3 men at a party", you have to check out a short video documentary called "Dinner With Rush" to see these guys and the connection they have with each other as only true friendship brings.
Don’t know if anybody already said it but the clocks and not dryers is the time machine I saw them on this tour they played for three hours with a small break In The middle most amazing show ever blew my fukkin brains out.. Rush lives forever 🤘😬🤘
Awesome Tim!
Rush...my favorite band since 1981. Neil inspired me to practice my drums for hours every day. Saw them live 20 times, including the Cleveland time machine show. So thankful to be able to relive it on video. I miss anxiously awaiting the next album or show. I miss Rush...
Another great reaction! I like your mind blown reaction when the song kicked in and then the other surprises along the way. Definitely one of the best all time bands hands down especially live, can I see "A Show of Hands"? lol (The title of a good live show by them late 80's). I enjoy seeing your journey with this band.
A long, long time ago I had a drum teacher. He was a lovely guy and played with some pretty big names at the time. When I first went to his studio he had a video playing Rush - I think the song was Marathon - his screen was opposite his drum kit to aid students. Anyway, we discussed Rush and obviously I was a big fan too. He then asked me if there was song or a few bars of a song I'd like to discuss. So I played the drum part during Alex's solo of LVS and he looked a bit surprised. He then asked me if I could write it down, which I did. Even with the music in front of him he couldn't play it and we had a good laugh about it. It just showed that the way Neil thought about his drumming was almost mathematical and you had to think that way too. Once you did, it clicked. I played in a few bands, nothing huge, and got to know the great Robin Jones. Robin was one of the best drummers in the world, yet few people have heard of him, and he knew my limitations but was always so polite - he died not so long ago RIP. I mention him because even though NP was a great drummer, with incredible chops, I would much preferred to have been a Robin Jones type drummer and not know how to play LVS. Robin was a friend of Buddy Rich. I first saw BR when I was 16 and sat on the closest table to him during the show. It was the greatest musical experience of my life. All of my heroes, NP included, are pretty much dead now sadly. VC is still alive which is one blessing. I don't play anymore - I retired at 27 :-) FYI th-cam.com/video/3x_2gv0j4G4/w-d-xo.html Robin Jones back in the early 70s.
11:15 Neil killin' it... Was there ever any doubt?
First record I ever bought (with the money I got for my 14th birthday) Permanent Waves. I'm 58 now, and I still love it, along with all the other albums from Rush to Clockwork Angels. I only got to see them live once. That was in Berlin on the Clockwork Angels tour. I'm sure Geddy and Alex are still jamming and making music but I think Rush saddly died with Niel RIP buddy your words inspired a lot of people.
Just imagine the luxury of having someone with Alex's talent playing 3rd fiddle in your band? Rush is so good, Alex is frequently left out of the conversation even though everybody knows he is incredible and always has been. The guy has been spot on for decades and fulfills his role perfectly. He takes is on little rides. Small solos. Big solos. Holds the rhythem, Complicated. Not so complicated. Fades back when Neil or Getty need to step forward. Takes center stage. Plays in unison to bring more out of a song. He is and they are incredible by any measure. Consumate professionals, performers, entertainers, musicians and composers.
We love the stop. We love the insight. We love Rush and we love you man!
You asked what they were throwing to the crowd, and then mentioned the dryers on Geddy's backline. The dryers are there because Geddy started playing through rack-mounted amps, speaker emulators and DI to the mixing boards... He had nothing behind him on stage anymore, so he thought of something to put there. Dryers, vending machines, rotisserie chicken ovens, a steampunk sausage maker... On the tours where he had dryers on stage, they put T-shirts (unique designs, not available from merchandise stalls) in the dryers to make it look right. They were throwing those T-shirts.
Love it Jason!
I was lucky enough to see rush 4 times before Neil's passing very amazing show every time RIP a rock legend
You hit the nail on the head! Right from Flight at night through moving pictures, that’s what I love about this band. Not commercial. Check out 2112 and the beginning of anthem rock.
As mentioned in the comments about Neil's traditional instead of regular rock grip - Neil, one of rock's GOATs (at the time!), went back to learn from some Jazz masters to reinvent himself and how to play a different style. Yes, he was that dedication to the craft.
RUSH is what happens when you get 3 talented friends who stay together as a band and try to impress and outdo each other with their skills. I'm from Canada, and we get a lot of 3 piece bands here (Rush, Triumph, etc) because our population vs size is small... so if you happen to find some people who can play with you, you stay together and do your best.
He was a fan of Buddy Rich and was asked to play at a tribute show, he sought out a student of Buddy’s and learned how to play traditional grip like one of his influences. He then began using it in Rush. An established drummer adding another tool to his toolbox.
definitely one of the hardest working bands of the time and best drummers of all time not to mention geddy lee and alex in there own right. Always enjoy listening to the classics
Gotta watch working man Cleveland live...just awesome
The clocks were because it was the Clockwork Angels tour. The dryers were sometimes replaced with rotisserie chicken ovens, a popcorn cart, or other peculiar items.
This is my favorite Rush song...and my favorite live show....
It is personally exciting for me to watch someone explore this particular song in the way, in the sarcastic way, Rush did this go around. The original is epic, but I csn only imagine playing this in every city on a tour. Can anyone imagine how tired you would be after three hours? Not just RUSH, of course, just the level of energy and enthusiasm for the music.
This tune is off the charts for all around musicianship.....our best export....a guy from YYZ
FYI, Geddy Lee is bass, keyboards, pedal bass and vocals. Alex Lifeson is the guitarist. He also played keyboard and pedals in the mid to later tours. I think the words you were looking for to describe Neil is that he is a "working man" at drums. :P Even though he didn't write the lyrics to that one, since it was off the album Rutsey played drums on, just prior to Neil joining them.
Fortunate to see RUSH twice in the 80’s and their last 4 tours. Musically better as the years passed
AWESOME
The tour was called the TIme Machine and the dryers represented a clean sound.
HAHA that's hilarious
For an amazing live performance, that will absolutely wow you. Rush "working man" Cleveland concert