Rush’s set list (it’s a long one)
Posted on September 10th, 2007 – 3:14 AMBy Chris Riemenschneider
OK, Rush zealots, here’s your chance to weigh in. I did say in my review how impressive it was that they kept the crowd interested throughout this doozy of a performance. What else did you like about it? Did you mind that they left out a lot of their best-known songs? And what about the voice of Geddy Lee, how did it get so high?
First set: Limelight / Digital Man / Entre Nous / Mission / Freewill / The Main Monkey Business / The Larger Bowl / Secret Touch / Circumstances / Between The Wheels / Dreamline
Second set: Far Cry / Workin Them Angels / Armor and Sword / Spindrift / The Way the Wind Blows / Subdivisions / Natural Science / Witch Hunt / MalNar (w/ drum solo) / Hope/The Spirit of Radio /Tom Sawyer
Encore: One Little Victory / A Passage to Bangkok / YYZ
77 Responses to "Rush’s set list (it’s a long one)"
Incredible musicians and even though I would have liked to hear some of those
songs that were left out, it was a great show. There was a song in between Hope & Spirit of the Radio, but I don’t know the name of it. Anyone else know?
It’s called Distant Early Warning.
WOW! Those were most of my favorite songs by them and rarely heard in concert. They were spot on and the lighting and pyrotechniques were great. I was amazed to see the audience stand for the whole show and it just went by much too quickly. Oh to become a RUSH groupie and follow them from show to show. 
Way too long unless one is a diehard fan, I could have gone home at the break.
Still technically great musicians. Graphics I could have done without-rather creepy. Would rather just see the musicians playing. People, why buy the seat if you are going to stand for 3 hours??? I would DEFINITELY go see them again. VERY impressed after all of these years. Entre Nous and Circumstances were a real treat!!
I guess if you expected RUSH to play for 7 hours you could really complain that they left out some of thier best work. However, given the length of stage time they did perform I was completely blown away AGAIN! If you have not seen this band live then really you ARE missing out. How can 3 guys offer so many ear pleasing tones? What A Great Show!!!
This band has evolved a lot since I first saw them at the Met in their 1976 “2112″ tour. Geddy’s voice no longer allows him to sing their favorite past hits such as Anthem, Bastille Day, or Working Man, but this was the best rock concert I recall ever seeing. In my opinion, their musical talent is unmatched today. This is the reason why fans, spanning over four decades, were standing for the full three hours. For my 24 year old daughter and myself, it was a once in a lifetime opportunity. This 3 man band of Geddy Lee, Alex Leifson and Neil Peart, who are all well over 50 years old sounded like an orchestra. Rush has approximately 25 Gold Albums and 18 Platinum. This is more than AC/DC, Pink Floyd or even Led Zeppelin. It is a shame that they are not in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Rush is a band that is getting better with time. I can’t think of a band that continues to deliver over and over again like they do.
The guys are amazing. And continue to take different paths in their music and shows. can’t wait for the next one.
My 9th Rush Concert - still as AMAZING as ever. My son & I were commenting on the way home that they’d have to play all night in order to play all our favorites. Marvelous musicians - was that a LUTE that Alex used at one point? Can’t understand why they are consistently underrated, ignored for the Rock Hall of Fame, etc.
Rush is Rush, Great Musicians but the first set did not sound to good. At least from where we were seated. Sound issues needed to be addressed and finally dialed in. Second set they threw it down! Their new material did not do much for me but the overall; it was great to see them again.
I’ve seen Rush 7-8 times and I’ve NEVER been disappointed. I thought the show was tremendous. The sound is great, light show fabulous and video screens were so clear; other bands should try to at least get those things right. Rush isn’t my favorite band (sorry fanatics) but they come closest to giving your money’s worth at the inflated concert prices these days. I love the fact that they’ll play anything off any album, and it’s not a “greatest hits” show. If you only know them from the radio it would be a lot of unfamiliar material, but I’m glad they change it up and glad they squeezed 27 songs in. LONG LIVE RUSH!
To hell with the Rock and Roll Hall of fame if they do not see what Rush really is.
Mary says: People, why buy the seat if you are going to stand for 3 hours???
—
UGH
You don’t go to a rock concert to sit. You just don’t. I can’t believe people have this mentality.
I have seen RUSH many, many times (every tour since Signals and several times more than once per tour). I was pleased to hear more ‘deep cuts’ on this one but…I wish we could have had the date earlier in the tour. They seemed a little out of sync in a few places showing a bit of fatigue…That said, as always, they are incledible to see and I hope they keep going for many more years. Keep your hopes up fans…They will be in the hall of fame sometime!
It was an awesome show, been going to see them since 82, and this could be the best one, but they are alway terrific. They are truly professional musicians.
Sound could have been better on SOME songs, I could barely hear Alex on YYZ, and simalar problems on about 30% of other songs.
But overall I wish they had another show so I could see it again.
I loved the classic gems they pulled out for this tour. I never thought I would hear “Natural Science” performed live, what a pleasant surprise.
The only complaint I had was for the position of the projection screens. They were too low for the short people around me on the main floor to see over everyone else’s head. I had some woman standing behind me scream about how she hates being short. So then, I become self-conscious of others around and do not enjoy the show as much anymore.
Anyone who thinks Rush doesn’t belong in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame needs to get their head examined!
I don’t think Rush belongs in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
As a die-hard fan who has seen them 7 times, this was one of their best performances to date. They are still so good after all these years, and still give 100% every tour, every concert. True professionals. I personally loved the setlist, probably my favorite one to date. They pulled some real gems out. Never thought I’d hear Circumstances or Witch Hunt live. A casual fan may be disappointed, but to those of us familiar with their entire catalog, it was awesome! Ending with YYZ was a great touch.
After ‘Limelight’ the rest of the first set was a blur due to being mesmerized by all the lead guitar and bass licks being played by the band I’ve idolized for years - but I do recall ‘Free Will’ and ‘Circumstances’ were awesome. The selections from ‘S & A’ were great. Although all the tunes were awesome, I would have replaced some with at least a few classics like FBN, CTTH, The Big Money, New World Man, etc. Classics aside - they put out one of the best, unique musical and lyrical shows I’ve ever seen or heard, with some surprisingly humorous, and unique visual effects as well. All instrumentals were phenomenal and continue to amaze me - Peart’s solo was awesome and about as unique as I’ve ever seen or heard as well. These crazy, multi-talented Canadians are the best progressive heavy metal band - period. They’ve been in my R & R Hall of Fame for years already.
awesome show as alawys ,, as far as the r&r hall of fame is concerned,, they definitely need to be there along w/kiss,, but there are bands like the police,, prince and some other acts that get in there that havent been around as long!! the problem is there is a dude that is on the commitee that has already stated as long he is on the committee both rush and kiss will never be voted in!!!the idiot in question is the editor of rolling stone magazine of which rush has never been in themagazine!! i had awesome seats to the show ,, a side note ,, if you do not like standing at a concert do not go period!!
Great show! Unfortunately had to leave slightly early and missed the encore. What is with Geddy’s bass amps (hen house)? Coudn’t quite tell from were we were at.
A day without Rush is a day without
happiness.
They do things the way they want to - no apologies. I respect them for it.
Jann Wenner?
“the problem is there is a dude that is on the commitee that has already stated as long he is on the committee both rush and kiss will never be voted in”
that is horrible
It’s true.
Have not seen Rush since mid eighties with first show in ‘81. 26 years later and they are still kicking a**. Also - original band - original sound, worked for me..
I unfortunately dont attend Rush concerts anymore because of the selfish juvinels that have to stand the whole show. I dont mind beginning and end of concert standing, but its a concert if you want to stand go to a bar!
I would have liked to see and hear Red Barchetta in place of some Snakes and Arrows stuff, but Entre Nous, Mission and Natural Science live were worth the price of admission. I enjoyed the review of the show by Mr. Riemenschneider and think he made a wise choice out of all the options in town last night. As Canadians, Rush probably is secure with their own induction in Canda’s HOF many years ago. Who reads Rolling Stone anymore anyway? Jann Wenner could afford a trip to a Rush show to see what he’s been missing for a long time. Fortunately, four decades of musicianship do not require Wenner’s validation.
I agree with the others in that if they played more of my favorites, we’d still be at the Xcel Center right now!
They did play a heavy dose from Snakes & Arrows, which I was okay with as the album is growing on me. Although, I’d cut out a couple of them in favor of old stuff.
Chris Riemenschneider asking about Geddy’s voice?! Has he never listened to Rush before? People have been trying to dismiss Rush since Hemispheres based on Geddy’s high voice. Its always been that way. Nothing new there.
The boys don’t seem to care about the R&R Hall, so my suggestion is that we shouldn’t either.
And they still ROCK on…
“james says: I unfortunately dont attend Rush concerts anymore because of the selfish juvinels that have to stand the whole show.”
—
The concert is better off without you, then.
Uptight wads like you who want to sit the whole time are not doing anyone any favors, let alone the band. How do you think a rock band like Rush feels when they see a bunch of people out in the audience sitting for a majority of the show? Concerts succeed most when the band feeds off the energy of its audience and vice versa. You certainly aren’t providing them any of that just by sitting and clapping at the appropriate times.
If you want to sit at a concert, watch a concert DVD on your couch at home. Which you must do since the selfish juveniles like me are rocking out to our favorite bands and showing them how much we appreciate their show by becoming involved in it.
Some of us don’t pay to simply be entertained. I pay to become a part of the whole experience. If that’s selfish and juvenile, then so be it. I’ll take that criticism in the name of submitting myself to the experience and thus having a hell of a lot more fun than you are.
as the majority have alredy written the show last night was
fantastic
i think the play list was not an issue ,rather the bands fantistic library of music to choose from makes for an interesting and surprising evening,
i think geddy’s voice sounds better than ever even though early on and a couple times later it was hard to hear his singing,
i have seen rush 4 tiomes over 30 years and without question this made the target center shows to be forgotten
the degree of difficulty in playing such complex melodies makes for a deep appreciation of the talents and gifts these guys have
the show kept me on my feet the whole time
neil’s insightful lyrecs cant be matched ,
peart and dylan are the greatest song writers who have ever lived,
there new album is already one of my favorites,
thank you alex,geddy and neil,what a great show
rush has been my favorite rock band since i firt heard 2112
32 years later they continue to prove they are great
i love this band,
i love last nights show,
they are rock and roll with brains and talent
This was my 4th show on this tour and the best of the 4. The setlist for this tour was and is a complete treat. For whomever was surprised to hear Natural Science, they’ve played it on 3 of the last 4 tours. Entre Nous was the big shocker as they’ve never played that before this tour. I had tears in my eyes through the whole thing. Ged can’t sing at the 1975 register for a whole concert but I don’t miss that at all. He’s adapted nicely where he’s had to and he was spot on throughout the night. Anyone who wants to sit through a Rush concert should buy a concert CD, plug in their head phones and find a couch. It’s dangerous to sit through a Rush concert. You could easily break you hand on the back of the chair in front of you whilst air drumming.
Peace
Al
Did I miss any of the radio classics that they left off? Not at all. If I never heard Spirit of Radio, Freewill, Closer to the Heart and Tom Sawyer again, I would be just fine. I’m also happy to hear those songs, but they are not a pre-requisite to me enjoying a Rush concert. By the way, Time Stand Still barely qualifies as a Radio Classic.
Apparently, I was out of the norm last night as the majority of the fans were male.
It was an awesome night. I am 39 and at some points when I closed my eyes, I felt like I was back at a kegger in someones basement in 1984. Geddy Lee and Co have stood the test of time. They play and tour because they love it, and it shows.
Although I was not much into the real new stuff, it was great to hear some of the oldies. I missed Closer to the Heart, ah well.
Rock on Ged and Co, rock on.
Lisa,
you’ll always be a minority at a Rush show. That’s not a bad thing….it just is. I hope you find some time for the new stuff. It’s really their best work in a very long time. I’m a long long time fan and I put it in their top 5 albums.
I’ve been to several Rush shows over the years, and I can’t say I’ve seen one that was better.
I was glad they played a lot of their latest stuff. While they have faded from the mainstream, and their newer works won’t get much air play, what separates Rush from dinosaur bands of the 70s and 80s who are performing at casinos right now, is that they’re still on top of their creative game, and aren’t content resting on their greatest hits.
I’m sure it’s a huge, long process to come up with a set list that all 3 members can agree on. I think they chose wisely. A nice balance of old & new, plus several surprises for veteran Rush fans like myself.
I appreciate Chris Riemenschneider’s respect for the band. So often they get made fun of by critics who don’t know what they’re talking about. They just hop on the Rushbashing bandwagon and I immediately tune out. Good review, Chris!
Please let there be someone out there who also remembers back in the mid 70’s when Rush was on the bill with R.E.O. Speedwagon, and Blue Oyster Cult at the St.Paul Civic Center. Rush was the first of the 3 bands, and BLEW THEM AWAY !!! Since then I have had the pleasure of seeing them locally each tour. Some tours weren’t my cup of tea, (those supporting and Test for Echoes, and Presto records.) ( Now I’m showing my age, they did a show supporting Presto didn’t they? ) I believe these 3 lads from Canada have evolved into a tight ROCKING MACHINE….I cried during Limelight, cause I feared this was our last dance.
Being a long time Rush addict from upstate NY…just south of the Canadian border (you hoser)it was a tremendous joy ride to see the 3 wisemen still play with the no nonsense, peddle to the metal precision that makes Rush RUSH! As a previously professional musician thatcovered a few of their songs , I understand the intense talent that each of these individuals lend to the collective of the band.
Of the songs they played, I wouldnt have done it any differently (except for the addition of “Trees”. Distant Early Warning and Subdivisions ..are as provocative in lyric as they were when they were released… I cant wait to memorize the new album! Thanks for a great Show!!
Oh and Chris …c’mon brother… the only thing I can say about Geddy’s voice is how can an individual belt out song after song night after night like that! He sounds exactly like he always has…. SUPERB. Also the oldies they picked to play were selected for the performance value. Give New World Man a listen to and see if you think that would have been comparable to Limelight, Tow Sawyer, Distant Early Warning, Subdivisions…. I will say that who ever was whining about the length of the show…. should stop whining. These 3 earned every penny and more… just leave if you “no like” … I could have listened for another 3 hours..easily
I will see them in Helsinki, Finland 29th of October. They sold 12.500 tickets to the gig in one day… completely sold out the huge arena. Not bad for a band that nobody has ever heard of, eh? 
“james says: I unfortunately dont attend Rush concerts anymore because of the selfish juvinels that have to stand the whole show.”
My wife and I are 40. She danced the entire show, and it was a lot of fun. I guess at 40 being considered a “juvinel” is actually a compliment. Being passively entertained is great for a movie, but a concert? James and I are from different planets.
Amazing show! I went with my Husband (35)and Dad (54) and it was an incredible experience. My hubby isn’t too familiar with their music, so I was a little worried whether he would enjoy it. Suffice to say, he was amazed by the entire show, even noting that they are truly “musician’s musicians.” The sheer talent they exude, regardless of song, is overwhelming. While it would have been great to hear more classics, we all have to keep in mind that this was the Snakes and Arrows tour afterall. (It would have been awesome to hear Trees though..but I digress.) I thought that Neil’s drum solo was worth the price of admission alone. Limelight was a great way to open the show. I also loved the Bob and Doug McKenzie short and the pyrotechnics were great - especially when the dragon was on the screen. I would definately see them again.
I’ve seen Rush on every tour since “Grace Under Pressure” (ironically, not a favorite album of the band themselves, I’ve read, yet it provided two songs to this set list) except “Power Windows” and truly they never disappoint!
Once correction to Chris’ article where he mentioned “Fly by Night” as a classic absent from the setlist - I’m pretty sure in the seven tours’ shows I’ve seen, they never played that one - so there ya go.
As for the set list, overall I loved it! “Circumstances” was a welcome surprise, done in a very darkened (lower) key to accomodate Geddy’s current range, as they have done with 2112 in recent tours. “Natural Science” was a surprise in that I figured they might not do it again. They did that one on the last two tours. I’m glad because that’s my favorite Rush tune. When I heard it on the T4E tour I flipped.
Of course I expected plenty from the new CD, which we got. I like the new record quite a bit. I could have done without “The Larger Bowl”. I think the lyrics are a bit trite and didn’t think the tune fit the slot. I’d have rather heard “Bravest Face”, which they did not include. Starting the second set with FIVE new tunes probably was a bit of overkill, even for me, but especially for those not familiar with the new material.
I agree with the poster who suggested they were a bit sluggish. I noticed more playing mistakes in this show than any other I can recall. They dropped a whole beat during one tune (can’t recall which, but I was stunned!) and how about the false-start right off the bat on “Limelight”?!? Alex started the intro riff before anybody else was ready.
Some of the films were cool - but I think they were hodge-podge and the digitized stuff was just-ok.
I was surprised to hear nothing from Counterparts or Test for Echo, and also surprised to not hear “Roll the Bones” - that one seems to have become a big crowd-pleaser live fave.
All things considered - WELL worth the price of a ticket - don’t mind standing for three hours to see a rock show done with as much class as any outfit in the business!
Oh - regarding the chicken roasters, since Geddy began playing with all direct gear (no amps anymore) they’ve been using props. They used refrigerators on T4E and used clothes dryers on Vapor Trails, with the roadies swapping out loads. Funny!
“Bernie says: I agree with the poster who suggested they were a bit sluggish. I noticed more playing mistakes in this show than any other I can recall. They dropped a whole beat during one tune (can’t recall which, but I was stunned!) and how about the false-start right off the bat on “Limelight”?!? Alex started the intro riff before anybody else was ready.”
The song you may have thought they “dropped a whole beat” was probably Digital Man. They actually have re-aranged the song for the tour and cut out whole parts from the studio version. Also, Alex starting the Limelight riff early was part of the show. They’ve started EVERY show like that on this tour. They are having fun and messing with each other. At the Detroit show, Geddy was hiding from Alex and made him hold the riff for about 5 extra seconds before finally joining him on stage. After 30+ years, its great to see them still having a blast with each other.
Fair warning, people. If you attend a Rush concert, expect to STAND UP. There are two good reasons for this: a) it’s a rock concert. b) it’s Rush.
I’ll admit I was a bit shocked at their setlist. Digital Man? It’s a great song, but not standard at concerts. Entre Nous? No Roll The Bones? Nothing from Counterparts? No OVERTURE?!?! Now that was a shock. That’s always been my favorite part of any Rush concert, when everyone shouts “HEY”!
It was still a great show, just different.
My first Rush concert was back in 1980 for Hemispheres at the Nassau Colliseum in NY. Since then, I’ve seen them many times, including early shows for Permanent Waves, Moving Pictures, and Signals. I enjoyed the Snakes and Arrows show. I have to admit I would have loved to hear some more classics, such as 2112 Overture, La Vila Strangiato, Xanadu, Cygnus X-1, etc. But still, I loved their sound and they remain a clean, solid, professional group. I put them up there with “Yes” when it comes to technical ability and ability to keep putting out original material after 4+ decades.
On a side note, I was on the floor in the center section, about 17 rows back. Some super-annoying woman seemed to feel the urge to keep holding up some annoying sign askling them to play Time Stands Still. Not only is that a pretty insipid, mediocre request, but her sign also blocked the view of everyone standing behind her for at least 15 rows. It got to the point where people were throwing things at her to get her to stop holding it up, but she responded in typical MN passive aggressive fashion and kept holding it up. As if Rush was going to suddenly alter their set list for her request. This isn’t karaoke! Just a little common courtesy would have gone a long way.
What an awesome show!
We returned to Minnesota after seeing Rush in Milwaukee and Chicago.
The show at the X was hands down the best we saw.
The beginning was staged.
If you watched the opening video closely (I saw it 3 times) Geddy was eating chicken, that is why he was late at the start of Limelight.
They did it the same way in the three shows we saw.
Bottom line these guys are great.
I wonder how they come up with the energy to play like that night after night.
Here is a fact for you, RUSH is the third best selling group of all time right behind the Beatles and the Rolliing Stones.
The thing that a lot of people don’t get about Rush is they are progressive, they don’t get stuck in a rut and live out there lives releasing “safe” albums.
I loved the set list, and was glad to see some of the old standards go away. I have seen them many time in other cities and around the globe and even I was getting tired of hearing some of them. Imagine how it must be for them playing 2112 about 5,000 times over the years.
Best songs this tour:
Between the Wheels
The way the Wind blows
Workin them Angels
Natural Science
Hey RushFan, I’m another 40+ yr old who danced thru the whole show! My husband and I had a blast as usual. He had to hold me during “Hope” as I was actually sobbing - that piece is so beautiful. Y’all are right about the “sitters” buying a DVD and finding a nice couch (HA!!!) - how can you NOT be moved (in various ways) by these amazing guys? Thought the dinosaurs were a nice touch although hardly symbolic as I don’t see them EVER becoming extinct. Every show is a surprise and I love it when they mix things up and try to trick the audience (I remember an old interview where I think Geddy commented that they occasionally like to drop a beat just in case somebody’s dancing! That explains my sore, old back!). Thanks to Rush and to all the wonderful fans we met at the show - I hope we all meet again and again and again!
I was also sitting on the floor behind that selfish B%^ch. I asked her nicely several times to please not hold that banner up every time Geddy or Alex came close to center stage - as if they’d drop what they were doing and play that silly song. At one point, she was holding the sign the wrong way for about 5 songs and didn’t know it. Typical “MN Nice”
This is the 3rd time I’ve seen Rush live, with the other two being the Signals and Hold Your Fire tours. I must say they keep getting better IMO. My brother also attended who is NOT a die-hard Rush fan and thoroughly enjoyed it. Their light show alone must have cost a fortune. Some of the comments I’ve seen are curious.
As far as lack of warmup band - that has been there trademark the past several years and I for one am sick of seeing worthless warmup bands sucking the life out of me before the main event.
The play list - I’m not dissapointed that they did not play some of their earlier radio hits. Recording since 1973, they simply have too many songs and they can’t play ‘em all, including some of their radio hits such as “Closer to the Heart” and “New World Man.” It may be too that maybe the band is at least at the moment, tired of playing them since they were both played on their last tour (Vapor Trails). I was a bit surprised to hear “Natural Science” as they played this song fairly recently down in Brazil on the “Rush in Rio” DVD/CD. It is a difficult song to play live. I was also very glad to hear 8 or 9 tracks from their new album. I think “Snakes and Arrows” overall is their best work since “Roll the Bones” and really enjoyed the new tunes.
As far as being too long - are you kidding me!!” Again, after nearly 35 years of studio recording and hundreds of songs, your concert is going to be longer than normal. Trying to figure out a play list must be murder for them.
“The Excel Energy center was packed despite the band not being mainstream in years.” Well yeah - the band has never been accepted as mainstream. And that’s the way I like it. I think Rush does too. They know they have their 10 million fans around the world and are happy with it.
One really cool classic that would be fun to hear live again would be “Bastille Day.” Maybe next time.
I agree with Carlos about standing - expect it. I recently saw Def Leppard and everyone stood through the entire concert on that one. Besides, does it hurt to stand and stretch your legs, glad the people behind me were standing up a lot too as I felt like I wasn’t bothering them.
Thanks Rush - hope this will not be your last tour.
If you want to sit, there were seats in the rafters. If you want to rock, go to a Rush show. This was my 19 or 20th show since Farewell to Kings, so I guess I would be considered a diehard. You always miss something you wish they would have played, but at the expense of what other song? I personally love Snakes and Arrows and I think the boys looked like they really enjoyed playing the new stoff over the old. Wouldn’t you if you had played Closer to the Heart a bazillion times? Great as always. Tight as always. Creative and funny as always. I can’t wait for the next one.
Great show. I’ve seen them at least once every tour since Power Windows, and it was nice to hear something besides what I’ve heard on the last 7 tours. Entre Nous - holy crow! I think I’ve heard everything else at least once. Not a big fan of the new album, but as someone pointed out, at least they’re actually making new music and not coasting.
I will say that Neil looked bored every time they showed him on the screen. Fair enough, since I find his solos insanely boring. I know I’m in the minority on this, so lay off the flames. Duly noted. But Geddy manages to be phenomenal without making us listen to just him for 10 minutes; I wish Neil would be content to do the same. Maybe it’s just that bass players are humble (speaking as another bass player ).
Nobody has commented on the error in Chris’ review about “original bandmates.” John Rutsey, anyone? Still, a nice review and nice to see Rush not just dismissed as nerd rock.
Saw the show on Thursday in Milwaukee and agree it is one of the best concerts I have seen(they DID have 4 days off before the show…so they seemed quite fresh).
IMO their set list was VERY well balanced with rare tunes, avoiding burned out songs, while including Snakes material which sounds good and RAW live…I like the social commentary…we need it in our time as so few are willing to stray into that arena.”Armor and Sword” and “Spindrift” were particularly powerful live.
One interesting note for you Vikings fans…the dude with the basting brush was wearing a cheesehead in the milwaukee show! This band has a great sense of humor!
I thought overall it was a great show, though a bit too heavy on the new S & A cd. The first time I saw them was back in 78 on the Hemisphere’s tour and they continue to deliver a quality show every time. Natural Science was a great treat, though I really wish they’d left a couple new ones off and included Fly by Night or Working Man. I took my 12 year old son for his first real concert and while I think he enjoyed it he’s really into Rush’s earlier stuff (smart kid) and was dissapointed some of his favorites didn’t get played. What they did play however, was spot on and they were having a good time on stage as always. Their musicianship never ceases to amaze me. The show itself was a visual treat as well, great lighting, lasers and other visuals, all made for a great night.
Wife and I came to the show from Fargo. I’m a Rush fan since 1980, wife doesn’t really like Rush but it was birthday present so she came At the end of the show, I asked her what she thought? Wife said it was very good and enjoyable (!). And that is my thought too, how could you come away from this show and not like Rush?? An excellent show that highlighted some of the finest musicians in the rock world. And Rush is still producing quality music after all these years. Second set of the show led off with tunes from Snakes and Arrows. The boys pulled it off without fault. The concert pulled the tunes from Snakes and Arrows off the disk and flushed them out in a way that I hope that a DVD comes out from this tour. Geddy’s voice is strong and can still pierce as shown on some of the earlier pieces played. Neil’s drum solo, well I never really listened to them much on the records, but after seing him pull of the solo in concert, I now have an appreciation of the work and timing involved. Hope from Alex was moving coming after Neil’s solo. Really moving!! A bit long winded with the review, but there was a lot of heart but into this concert by Rush and it showed. Looking forward to more concerts from the boys from Canada! (Except for Neil, lives in Cali now..LOL)
As usual, their show exhibited musicianship to the nth degree. I feel fortunate to have been able to enjoy this band’s live shows for 28 years now. What an original, creative, and talented trio! What has always amazed me most about Rush is the huge, dynamic wall of sound coming from just three musicians. I’ve been listening to Snakes & Arrows all summer - their best album in years IMHO, and the live performances of nine of those songs didn’t disappoint in the least.
I hope they record and tour for years to come.
Rush truly has never sounded better , one of the only bands that always sounds better live , they have to be seen to be truly appreciated , the set list could be debated , but it was good to hear them dust off some long forgotten songs, witch hunt sounded unbelievable , nice to hear between the wheel also , they could have possbily played a 1 or 2 more old favs , instead of practically all of S&A , like, the pass , or la villa … no complaints here though , i couldnt believe the number of people sitting at a Rush concert , this isnt John Tesh we came to see people , rush rocked the Xcel , here’s to hoping they come back soon
After sitting back for a few days and reading all the excellent replies to the show this past Sunday night, all I can say is I agree with most, but not all. Being a “large-marge” fan for almost 30 years myself, I can safely say, that this was one of Rush’ better shows, but there was some fatigue in the trio, and they had some “boo-boo’s” which is very rare for them. But as “true” musicians, Dirk, Lerxst & Pratt caught it quickly, painlessly, and never looked back. The setlist was great! Let me think, the tour is called The Snakes & Arrows Tour, makes sense they play a large part of their new material. Take three weeks for them to play everything to make everyone happy. Can’t be done. To me it was ever so refreshing that they left out a “batch” of radio hits. I hate the radio anyway, and as per the norm, the radio acts as if it is FORCED to play Rush, so they play the same 80’s songs over, over and over again. I too got VERY choked up when they came out. Is the last time? God I hope not. If anyone wants to learn about S&A they should sit down with the MVI and watch how these guys work, create and play together. It’s an insightful documentary and maybe, just maybe the petty bashing would diminish, and take the show AND Rush for what and who they are! The BEST! Period….
Has Rush ever really been a part of the mainstream? There albums still sell very well and there fanbase is still growing. I was pleasantly surprised by the number of younger fans at the concert and there were more hispanic fans as well. Although from Rush in Rio, this is apparantly not unusual. After checking the Billboard charts, Snakes & Arrows did quite well at #3 at its debut and KQRS has solidly been a Rush refuge for years. Just because they aren’t stumping with Jay Leno or selling out on American Idol, they are out of the mainstream? Hardly! Rush has always been out of the mainstream, that’s why they’re so well respected and command such a loyal fan base. As for the standing bit, please don’t expect to sit at a rock concert. You didn’t pay for the seat, you paid to see Rush. And in an era when many in the media, both celebrities and politicions alike, are crashing as moral leaders, at least Rush has the balls to stick by their convictions and put themselves out there. If anyone feels that they are being preached to, that is a problem with their own perception. For me Rush lyrics take what I’ve already been thinking and gives my thoughts a stronger voice. The show was great and the band as impressive as ever. Here’s to more in the future.
All I can say about the Rush trio of Geddy Lee, Neil Peart and Alex Lifeson is they are everything true professionals should be. They did a wonderful job with their new material and they played their old crowd favorites like they were brand new. They played Tom Sawyer like it was the first time they ever played it on stage.
This is a great band, a Canadian treasure and a source of pride for anyone from the later babyboom generation. These guys still blow any competition away. They are a throwback to the time when music was about the MUSIC and the PERFORMANCES and not about how you look on MTV.
In reply to Tim:
“If anyone wants to learn about S&A they should sit down with the MVI and watch how these guys work, create and play together. It’s an insightful documentary and maybe, just maybe the petty bashing would diminish, and take the show AND Rush for what and who they are! The BEST! Period…”
What is this you are referring to - MVI? Is there a documentary available? Sorry for the ignorance, but it sounds cool. If anyone knows what this is, please chime in. Thanks
jcs…MVI is Music Video Interactive. I have it and it’s kind of fun. You get the S & A songs which can be downloaded into your iPod or other music player (this didn’t do me any good since I bought S & A the day it was relased, oh well), there is a documentary about making the album, wallpaper, ringtones, and other extras that you get access to if you register your disc.
As far as the show goes… I am a bit of a Johnny Come Lately when it comes to being a Rush fan. I’ve always enjoyed the songs you always hear on the radio but I had never been motivated to buy one of their albums until S & A, and I can’t seem to take it out of the cd player in my car because I love it that much. Then I bought the R30 DVD about a month ago and that was the deciding factor in me going to the show and I was not disappointed at all. I wish I would have bought tickets WAY earlier and had floor seats but the show was still great even up in the nosebleeds. I think they put on a great show that would have been worth the $80+ price tag for the “good” seats, I guess I’ll know better next time…and I desperately hope there is a next time! I took my 13 year old daughters and we had a blast. We screamed and yelled and cheered and sang along to the songs we did know and had fun with the people we were sitting by. My girls proudly wore their concert T’s to school the next day even though a lot of their classmates have no idea who Rush is, what a shame! I also agree with Tim (from 9/12) in the sense that it was the S & A tour so hence, they should play a lot of songs from that album. I was just bummed they didn’t play Faithless. Otherwise, I thought the set list was just fine. It gives me a great list of “new” songs for me to learn to love. Toodles…
Bernie says: “They dropped a whole beat during one tune (can’t recall which, but I was stunned!) and how about the false-start right off the bat on “Limelight”?!? Alex started the intro riff before anybody else was ready.”
Alex ripping into Limelight “before the others were ready” was not a mistake, it was a tease. They’ve done that on every show this tour.
Thanks for the correction Al Willig - I was not aware of that (standing corrected, and better educated) That certainly does fit the profile. I thought I’d heard them do Limelight before and didn’t notice that. It does seem an odd choice of time for a tease, on the first downbeat of the show. But then again - they are off-beat guys and that’s part of what I love about them!
hey jcs-
the MVI he refers to is the special edition S&A dvd / audio disc , music video interactive disc , it is well worth the extra couple bucks , you can buy it on amazon and other places , it is awesome to get a glimpse of how alex , ged , and neil work there magic , it’s like watching piccaso paint
I hadn’t seen Rush since the Grace Under Pressure tour. How did Early Distant Warning get left out of the Star Tribune Set list anyways? I took my 13 year old son with me (his first concert) and he thought it was “Awesome!”. I love their old stuff the best but was impressed by the 9 songs they played off the new CD including all three of the instrumentals.
I enjoyed the concert. I saw Rush at Alpine Valley, WI, during their Roll the Bones tour - which I enjoyed a bit better, probably because I enjoy that era of music and earlier. So I’m admittedly a little biased about that.
Hearing Entre Nous was absolutely a treat - and I’ve always liked A Passage to Bangkok. I thought they started well and finished well, but the crowd seemed a little lulled during the middle (their new material) of the concert. Maybe it was just me, but the sound didn’t seem to be adjusted right - at times I could barely hear Alex playing. I’m a big fan of Dreamline, and for some reason, it didn’t seem as energetic… Amazing that these guys can still play it very professionally after being in the business over 30 years.
I will never understand those who complain about standing at any concert–but especially so at a Rush concert! My daughter and I saw them (again) on Aug. 23rd (second row, Geddy’s side 
:D :D) and those 3 hours zipped on by all too quickly! Not only were we perfectly happy to stand (Geddy Lee was flying through Mal-Nar 10 feet in front of our faces. We’re going to complain??? Huh???), but we did not notice the incredible humidity and heat until after the guys finished their thoroughly enjoyable performance.
As for Rolling Stone ragazine (no, that’s not a typo), I’ve certainly bought my last copy until their attitudes change over there. They obviously don’t have a clue where Rush is concerned. If they insist on ignoring these masters of musicianship, they have proven they have no business whatsoever writing about music, let alone judging musical talent. So I say Rush fans unite! Boycott Rolling Stone!
P.S. Geddy is more than capable of not only belting out Working Man, but of nailing every single note. Anyone who doubts that didn’t see them on their R30 tour.
Every time they come those who do the reviews in the paper are always saying “A remarkably large turnout considering their long-since fade from the mainstream” or something to that effect (how quikly they forget!). Well, there a simple reason for that folks. It’s because they are the best, they’re always professional and full of surprises, and never fail to put on an awesome show. I thought it was a real treat that they played “Between the Wheels.” They hadn’t played that here since the Grance Under Pressure Tour in 1984 and I didn’t think I’d ever hear them play it again. Man, what a show!
Rock on Rush zealots!! I just hope they can keep it going and look forward to their next CD and hopefully another tour that stops in the Twin Cities to go with it. There aren’t many bands that were putting on great shows when I was in high school(class of 77) and still are today - Rush tops the list.
Been to 16 Rush shows, so I’m a fan, but must admit most of the new material doesn’t work for me. Having been a fan for 28 years and hearing how many people say no other band can play like this - you should all check out”Dream Theater”. It’s Rush to the next and the next level. If you love Rush and haven’t checked out Dream Theater you’re missing the best prog rock band ever. (Incidentally their favourite band is Rush!!!!!)
Random Sample said:
“Here is a fact for you, RUSH is the third best selling group of all time right behind the Beatles and the Rolliing Stones.”
Wow. That’s some really incorrect information.Try the Beatles, ABBA, Zeppelin, Queen and AC/DC all ahead of Rush. Hell, the Backstreet Boys have sold more records (seriously).The RIAA puts them at 75th.
Rush is awesome and all, but that’s just bananas.
Mike, don’t get your facts from “Rock for Dummies”
Rush is the 3rd best all time.
Must we argue on who is the number one selling group? Does it really matter? Here is something for thought. Geddy, Alex and Neil have been true to their music from the beginning of time. They love their fans and you would have to admit, they put on one hell of a show. I have been very lucky to have seem them twice this tour but I have met people that are seeing them more than 10 times this tour alone. Point being that at some point in your life you become a RUSH fanatic like myself then you stay true to your band no matter who that band is. I love those three boys from Canada and I always will. I am 43 years old and I have seen them 11 times and that my friend is not enough for me. My kids love them as much as I do. I was lucky to see them starting in 1976 and if I get to see them again then that’s all the better. Snakes and Arrows is a well written very talented piece of work,(art) and I hope all of you appreciate it as much as I do. Like I said, they have stayed true to their music, it is just that simple and they should never appologize for that.
Chris,
Sorry not to have answered your questions. It doesn’t matter what music they choose for their concerts. All of it is just so amazing. Geddy’s voice you asked about. That is just one of their trade marks. You hear all kinds of local bands do a review from one group or another but is there any local band out there that can copy RUSH??? Maybe so but none that I have ever heard of. Geddy’s voice to me is just so sweet. The talent that they all bring to the table is nothing that can be copied. Sure there are videos out there of a drummer doing YYZ but no one can touch them as a group. And what was not to like. They are just amazing. It will be a bitter sweet day for me when they hang their drums sticks, their guitars. They have been apart of my life for 30+ years
Newspaper Subscriptions
eEdition
RSS
Newsletters