I bet Geddy Lee would be open to be interviewed. His passion for Rush is unparalleled. FYI, he has a passion for collecting baseball memorabilia and basses, which could be a subject for how his passion to collect influences his music and vocals.
You are 100% correct, it’s a joy to watch her dissect Music and vocals was such enthusiasm and appreciation. she is truly a wonder of nature. And she never fails to bring a smile to my face. God I wish my wife was more like this !!!
It's a long piece, but 2112 is required listening if you want to get the full impact of Geddy's vocal stylings and what he was capable of. By this time period of Tom Saywer (early 80s) , he had laid back on his vocals, and the band was pulling back on the complexity of their music. 2112 is essentially an Opera.
I love them all, but hands down 2112 is my favorite Rush album. And I still have my album that I bought back in 1976 when it was released when I was 9.
When people ask "who would you bring back if you could?" I always name a musician. Neil moved the goalpost for what can be expected from a rock and roll drummer.
You absolutely NEED to check out Terry Bozzio, as far as drums go. He blew my mind when I heard him. I am a percussionist, and he opened a door for me. His kit makes the one from this video look like child's play. Chromatically scaled toms, multiple snares, it's crazy.
They don't call Neil The Professor for nothin'! I always found it cool that he went back and learned how to drum in a new way in 1994-1995 after 30 years of drumming. He did it AGAIN in 2007! Even when you're on top, humility will let you get even better.
From the time I first saw Geddy leaping from KB to bass and back, or playing both at once, I resented having a separate bassist and keyboard player in my hard rock / heavy metal band of 19 years.
"NO! Don't be over!" Aww!! Everyone that does Reaction videos, take note on her loving analysis and exploration of detail. More Rush, please and thank you!
yes! and i also thought, she could have a bit more satisfaction hearing them play it live... the ending is excellent, never shoulda been a fade out (just like Red Barchetta) 😎
There is a great interview of Neil years later 16:18 saying “Tom Sawyer is a really hard song to play, I need to really practice it.” From the guy who created it. Who happens to be on probably top 5 of all time drummers including jazz drummers. Says a lot about the level they were playing on Moving pictures.
@doubled5383 That album is one their best, too, so many great songs, I still have my original vinyl record collection of their album and this one is one of my favourite in my collection. Next would be the live "exit stage left" double album.
I've been listening to this song since it came out in 1981. 41 years. Conservatively I estimate I've heard it 5,000 times. And today I'm sitting here with tears in my eyes as you experience it for the first time, and point out elements I never notice in all that time. Thank you.
@@scotj2servu. The boys today are oblivious now. Red Barcheta is more pertinent today rather than some guy's story that also criticized a god that tortures children with flies burrowing into their eyes while the suffer. /Please don't look into this
Opera vocal coach, so much training on the details and she definitely is a great teacher, so we can learn so much from what she knows on any song in my opinion! I think the performers don't understand what she is interpreting, so much have super, natural talent!
If you've not already done so - "Subdivisions" has always inspired me with the tonal changes, incredible meaning and amazing musical capability of the Trio. The breadth of vocal tones is wonderful.
John Dennis ---- I agree with you and as a huge Rush fan, and so many tracks from all their albums that are incredible, Subdivisions from Signals is such a great song. But so is The Analog Kid, which is the second track after Subdivisions. But, the whole album is incredible. It has a special place in my heart. I was a Jr in high school and life was really beginning to become grown up. Getting my drivers license a year prior but buying my first car and having my "serious" first love my first job, finally having my own bedroom after sharing with my brother throughout growing up. Lots of firsts and lasts. 17 yrs old was and should be a transitional time for males. It's when you are transitioning from a boy to a young man into a man. I would put on the headphones and listen to a lot music and Signals was one of the go to records daily for a long time. Probably in my top ten all time, can't live without albums.
@@13_13k "Subdivisions" was my introduction to Rush and it had such a huge impact that I remember the day I first heard it. The track "Losing It" even brings back a scene so realistic that it's like looking at an old photograph from that day. I branched out to Rush's other albums but "Subdivisions" is the most near, and dear, to my heart.
@@hopper1 --- there are lots of things that can trigger memories in the human brain, the two that are the most powerful of allthings to do that are sense of smell and music. Both can instantly put you in the most detailed memory, and the emotional state of that time. Good and bad situations can return in your mind so vividly that you can almost physically feel like you are there. It can make you smile, it can make you melancholy, and it can make you cry. Music is emotional when it is written and performed by talented people.
Subdivisons has always been one of my absolute favourites, even if I don't rate Signals that highly as an album. Neil's drum track on that song is phenomenal.
Owning every Rush album, and seeing them from the time they opened for KISS, I can tell you, Rush did it the 'hard' way. They earned their ever-increasing fan base one listener at a time. It was always "dude, ya GOTTA hear THIS band", and another Rush fan was added. Rush just did it 'their' way, and hoped others might like it, too. We certainly have. Thanks Dirk, Lerxst, and Pratt.
Nobody will ever be like them ever! Just absolutely spectacular live. I saw The Signals Tour in Phoenix. They were not only a great band, they were the kind of people you would want to spend time with! Just real cool guys not huge egos, just a great bunch of guys! Should have went to other shows.
Rush is literally perfect as a trio. They cannot exist without each other. Geddy's voice is unique and instantly recognizable. RIP Neil Peart. Rest easy Professor.
Though I can't agree on the perfection usage, since perfection is not possible, but...but...I haven't come across a band that to me IS as As Good or as Fantastic as Rush. I've been checking different bands since they started, but...Rush peaked way over Led Zeppelin and several others that were huge. Not that I don't enjoy Zep from time to time still, Rush just remains the Best through all the ages so far. I cannot think of When I've heard a Rush song or music and wanted the song to finish before another of their or someone elses kicked in. No one Rests In Peace, all intelligent energy continues to grow and adventure.
If you want one of the best examples of Geddy’s singing, just go straight to their 20-minute long, sci-fi rock-opera magnum opus, 2112. Geddy shifts his voice to take on different characters, and the expressiveness of his voice, along with the emotional musical arrangements, fit the narrative masterfully. Form the highs of discovery, to the lows of hopelessness and despair, you will be moved.
“Xanadu” is prime mid-1970s Rush and nicely demonstrates this era, the era just prior to “Tom Sawyer.” “Xanadu” is a showcase of the band’s instrumental virtuosity and Geddy’s voice and is symphonic in scope, clocking in at 11 minutes. It’s genius and I think you’d really enjoy it. Thank you for the wonderful work.
The only issue with this is that there are no vocals for the first half of the song, which certainly isn't a problem musically but might be a problem for a vocal reactanalysis video! Up to you, Elizabeth - I'd love to see your reaction anyway...
@@elvwood YES YES Xanadu is a must!! Amazing instrumental sections that I think Elizabeth would love regardless of the fact that it takes a little bit to get to the vocals. But the thing is that it’s so good that you don’t even realize that 5 minutes have gone by before the first vocals are sung! And then once the vocals do come in I think she’d love them as well! Definitely my recommendation!
Watching Elizabeth geek out to the instrumental breakdown of this classic song the exact same way a lot of us have been for decades is seriously the best part of my week right now!! I just love how a classically trained musician instantaneously gets what those of us who adore Rush always have while most casual Rock fans just completely disregard or even criticize. Thank you for this, Elizabeth! 💙👍🏼😃
I love rush to this day in 2024. My dad took me to see them in 2007 during their snakes and arrows tour. It was the best live show I've ever been to. RIP to Neil Peart. I hope he is with his wife and daughter right now. 🥰😇🙏
This entire album (Moving Pictures) is a masterpiece, without a weak moment on it and with a great sound throughout. As others have stated, "Limelight" (to me) is one of their most satisfying songs, changing time signature nearly every other measure, and so transparently that the average listener doesn't even realize it. Best band I've ever heard at playing unusual time signatures. One other masterpiece that I haven't seen mentioned yet that will fill your need for longer tunes is "Hemispheres".
Don't forget A Farewell to Kings! In fact, from Kings through to Moving Pictures are just perfect, in fact sod it, throw 2112 in, go from 76 to 81 all those albums just epic (could just be my childhood I guess!)
Moving Pictures is an interesting album (and of course excellent) as Rush tried to do shorter songs here compared to the 70s, and still retain the feeling of their older albums. IMHO they managed that perfectly, and I'm saying that as a huge fan of their early stuff and concept albums like 2112.
Elizabeth, the fans all know, but you might not, that "Hemispheres" is part 2. Part 1 is "Cygnus X-1", from the previous album. (Is there any other band that's ended an album with a cliffhanger?)
Definitely Limelight! The way it is able to be catchy and simultaneously switch time signature relentlessly yet imperceptibly, is one of the most amazing feats of songwriting and musicianship in my opinion.
Do you know opera singers? They're actually not nearly as pretentious as you think, they're about as down to earth as nearly everyone else, they just also happen to like music some consider pretentious and elitist
@@shawnbeaty7462 She's clearly an educated musician and she has a sincere passion for music and discovery, you can tell she has a great heart and I don't doubt this she is skilled at her craft. One of the best channels on UA-cam.
“Limelight” is another one from the same album that warrants a reaction. It plays with time signature changes in much the same way as “Tom Sawyer”, plus it has what is arguably the greatest guitar solo of all time that effectively conveys the loneliness and feeling of isolation reflected in the lyrics. It would definitely be worth your time to check out.
@TheCharismaticVoice I agree. "Limelight" should be your next Rush pick. Lyrics, vocals, rhythm, duration. IMHO, "Subdivisions" would also be an option.
@@Dan-C-71 Many folks like to break down odd time signatures into pairs, like 5/4 in to 2 and 3 (or 3 and 2). There's some merit to that approach. I've never considered it, but I wonder if taking 6/8 and turning it into 2 and 4 (or 4 and 2) would be interesting and work well?
it is a life treasure to watch someone with a musical background watch this group for the first time. Rush was so underappreciated, it's almost criminal.
“Xanadu” live is a MUST ! From the “exit stage left” tour 1982 just the 3 of them live on stage - every sound you hear is being played by them live…….Geddy is on vocals, double neck bass, keyboards, synth and while playing bass is using foot pedals to play keyboard chords simultaneously Neil is playing every percussion instrument known to man, inc tubular bells, whilst Alex combines 6 string lead guitar with 12 string rhythm on his double neck guitar, shifting effortlessly from one neck to the other during complex sections, ALL LIVE in 1982 !
I went to the concert at Long Beach, CA and sat in the loge just above Geddy's spot. I remember just being blown away as he turned into a musical octopus watching him on bass, keyboards, synth and bass foot pedals. Will never forget seeing it live.
Please allow me to correct 2 things. First, it's the "Exit Stage Left 1981" (instead of 1982) tour. Second, the double neck guitar used by Geddy Lee includes a 4 string bass and a 12 string guitar (both Rickenbaker). Unfortunately, the video doesn't show Geddy Lee playing the 12 string at the end of the song, the camera prefered aiming elsewere.
And they did it live on the 77 /78 kings tour I believe, the end is hard doing 6 string guitar while playing bass pedals so both guitar parts could be represented live. I believe it is the only song they did that on
My God Neil just kills it on this song!! The camera can't even keep up with how fast the sticks move at times because of how complex the drum sequences are. What a legend.
She said “No, don’t be over” at the end. I love it! I saw Rush live in concert in 1977, and they were excellent. Like she said, so much, and such great sound, from only 3 guys. In my opinion, they are the most musically talented hard rock trio EVER.
Too bad she’ll never attend one of their live shows. Since Signals I’ve attended every show and from R30 on traveled around US & CAN to see multiple shows. So glad I had those experiences
I'm 72 years old and I came to the Rush Party late but I finally arrived. I always hated Geddy's voice but now I cannot get enough of him. Call it an epiphany. These three guys have enormous talent.
Getty Lee doesn't have a bad voice, he can sing. It's an interesting voice and it is part of the bands sound. He's like Tom Petty etc etc. The voice is just an instrument.
just hitting 60 myself, don't know what I was thinking, I just blew rush off. How did I do that, Neil's drumming is insanely good, Alex is crazy and I didn't even realise geddy played bass
You should definitely do the 2112 suite. It'll satisfy your craving for a long Rush song, is split into different movements, and has not only some of the best Rush riffs but also some vocals that give me chills towards the climax. You won't be disappointed.
2112 has my vote, the whole album is amazing. My personal favorite since the first time I heard it many years ago. Absolutely fantastic piece of music based on a book by Ann Rand.
There are bands, and then there are musicians. Rush, beyond a doubt, were musicians of the finest caliber. Rest in peace, Professor. Keep rockin', Lee and Lifeson!
"Tom Sawyer" as Neil has stated on many occasions, is one of the toughest songs for him to play properly. He said he loved this song because "it challenged him every night" he had to play it. RIP Professor. Gone but NEVER forgotten.
Hemispheres is an amazing song that is actually the follow up to another great song called Cygnus X1. It’s my belief that they should be enjoyed together.
As I get older, the more I realize our time is very short. The musical legends of my youth are passing too often. Their talent for composing and performing incredible music is unmatched.
Hey Elizabeth, they pull all of their songs off live and they don't use backing tracks. I recommend you checkout "Xanadu" live from the Exit Stage Left concert. I think you'll love it.
Yes definitely! The Exit Stage Left concert. It's pre-midi, so they are doing all the sounds. Neil with an orchestra percussion section, and more guitar necks than players. It also has excellent quality for an analog recording from 1981, as well. Then you will be ready for 2112.
"Just these three guys..." The epiphany that every new Rush fans quickly realizes. Made possible through God-given talent combined with an incredible work ethic and never being fully satisfied with the outcome. Simply the best rock band - ever. Unrivaled masters of their craft.
You’re not kidding. I think the moment when I became a hard core Rush fan was the moment I saw the band’s pic in the local paper before a concert. Three people. I’m like, “this can’t be everybody!!!” But it was. My respect level exploded at that point. I could not believe that much sound was made by three people. 😎
@@dHolbach77 I agree. I would be very surprised if Geddy would sit down for an interview. For those curious, it has nothing to do with ego, it's just that the guys have always been fairly private, with guitarist Alex Lifeson being the most outgoing of the three.
@@themechaniacal1558 I'm inclined to say it does have something to do with his ego - in that he's uncomfortable with adulation, even in more mild forms! OTOH, he and Alex both like to recognize people, especially experts/musicians like Elizabeth, that think their work has some value. That is, they are inclined to give such people some time, or even just a public message (like they've done with some UA-cam musicians that have played their material).
Elizabeth has no equal as an absolutely delightful creator on UA-cam, a complete joy to watch as she does full-body reactions to great music that is new to her. Her insights and commentary have made songs I have heard hundreds of times even more enjoyable, and her joy of discovery are contagious and refreshing. The act of "throwing a kiss" to her audience at the end of her videos is so obviously genuine that it makes me smile every time. She is a brilliant gem of a human being.
"Limelight", "Closer to the Heart", "Working Man", "Free Will", "Fly by Night" are all songs worth analyzing & listening to. Glad you're analyzing more Rush, Elizabeth! \m/
“Though his mind is not for rent, to any god or government. Always hopeful yet discontent. He knows changes aren’t permanent… BUT CHANGE IS!” I want that on my gravestone. I miss Neil Peart as a lyricist every bit as much as I miss him as a drum hero.
Elizabeth....you are a gem!! The level of detail you notice and bring to our attention is amazing....I have always noticed these details too, which is why the music moves me, but never knew how to quantify them or describe them with words like you do. Thank you for your dedication in becoming such an expert at what you do and for being so brilliant.
People bang on about the Professor behind the drums (and with all due respect he deserves all of it) but there's something also special about Geddy Lee in concert Singing while simultaneously playing the Base and the Synth. Geddy's voice is an instrument that fits the band's orchestral arrangement, it's perfect for what the band does.
Geddy is my favorite musician of all time. One of the most talented and skilled performers of all time. Show me 1 other person who plays 3 instruments live and sings 🤘🤘🤘
@@davidhogan7008 well....Pete Trewavas from Marillion plays Bass, sings backing vocals, and uses bass pedals to trigger samples and baselines. He also has a Rickenbacker 4080 so he can play guitar in a couple of songs while using bass pedals.
She’s so right about Rush being warm and uplifting. A friend once asked me what their lyrics about and I said, “they’re mostly about being a good person and being decent to one another” and she was really surprised I would like anything like that because almost all the other music I enjoy tends to be dark, pessimistic or depressing
Rush is an incredibly deep rabbit hole, with some of the most amazing lyrics you will ever hear, and instrumental complexity to make you wonder how three people are doing all this at once. I very strongly recommend "Xanadu", live version from Exit Stage Left as your next stop. [EDIT: Also, it's over 11 minutes long, so it's a "full course dinner" song]
Exit Stage Left is, as a whole, absolutely prime Rush. Virtuosic and engrossing, it’s a showcase of their massive talent as musicians bejeweled by some of their best music from the period.
Search for the Xanadu live in Montreal 1981 60fps version. I have to say; after watching your reaction to TomSawyer; my heart absolutely melted with love for you!
@@dansims5855 I was at that concert (still lived in Montreal at the time). It was at the Montreal Forum, the former home of the Montreal Canadiens hockey team. Really great concert (like Rush has ever had a bad concert). Crowd strangely enough was almost half French Canadian (French Canadians really loved progressive rock, you should have seen the city get turned upside down for ELP and PInk Floyd).
Rush are 3 phenomenally talented and humble individuals. Listening and watching Elizabeth react in her wondrous way is just a joy. I love that you get so much pleasure from their changes in time signatures
I'd put him right at the top, along with John Bonham. They're kind of the yin and yang. You can feel how calculating Peart is in everything he does with that drum kit; not a single sixteenth is out of place. The only drummer I can think of who's that precise is Kai Hahto of Wintersun/Nightwish.
I love that it's them travelling through an airport and going to another destination - YYZ is the airport code for Toronto's Pearson airport for non-Canadians out there
I would love to see Ms. Zharoff do a reaction vid to Closer to the Heart also, but even if she doesn't I'd urge her to at least listen to it, specifically the Exit... Stage Left version as the crowd sings along from the beginning.
I've been a Rush fan since 5th grade; I still remember the first time I heard Tom Sawyer on a school field trip bus ride. Seeing someone who loves and understands music appreciate Rush is so heartwarming. I wish she could have experienced them live!
Sadly, most people that dislike Rush claim it's because of Geddy's voice. All 3 members are musical geniuses and Geddy has an amazing ability to shape his vocals. Tightest band in history.
I’ll never understand that. His voice is not only amazing in itself, but it’s unique. They certainly aren’t my favorite but why does that matter? They are amazing on all levels.
You should watch the interview where Geddy and Alex are talking about recording with Neil, and what's it was like. Neil, being the writer, would create these songs, and as Geddy put it, him and Alex would play around his creations. Neil was the epitome of a professional musician. When they recorded videos, his "play over"was always perfect: never a beat missed. May month, there was a tribute convey that Rush played at, and the drummer (no idea who it was) did a good job. But you could tell it wasn't Neil.
Saw Rush 3 times. One of the loudest bands I had ever seen. Geddy Lee would be playing the pedal keyboard, bass, and singing at the same time. The dude was incredible.
This is great! After hearing this song about 3 billion times in the last 40 years and seeing it played live countless times, you have given me a new appreciation for it. Thank you!
I love when a vocal coach/opera singer who's supposedly would focus mostly on the vocal performance, spontaneously starts to count the beat because she totally appreciate the odd time signature when it kicks in. A true Rush classic (it's 41 years ago now.. Damn I'm old), and it was both enlightening and entertaining to hear your analysis and over all heartful spontaneous comments (as always) on everything musically going on here. Keep up the good work!
Rush is a wildly underappreciated band. Your reaction is like every music lover's reaction. Listening to Rush for the first time is like listening to Bach for the first time.
@@philipdillon83 Those numbers refer to sales. Which shows how popular they were among fans. However, they were really underappreciated by critics. They never really make it in to the "best" lists. They are also underappreciated in modern times because of critics not liking them, this causes less exposure, making it harder to find them.
Watching Elizabeth totally nerding out( saying that in the most respectful way possible) on fantastic music is giving me life. Her facial expressions are something i only thought I'd see from a Disney Princess and those huge blue eyes just top off the whole ensemble. The giggles when something really hits her are fantastic and her assessment of the music as a whole , the nuances and breaking down the song into its parts and the descriptions keeps me bingeing on her words of wisdom. I always had a deep deep love for music of all kinds..but i'm starting to look at my old favorites in a completely different light now.
Isn't it great? She's like a little kid at Disney for the first time, but behind all of that innocent exuberance is this expertise about music. It's fantastic.
I've seen Rush play four times and Geddy is a freak of nature in a good way. It's simply inhuman how he can play complicated riffs on the bass, sing lyrics and play the keyboards with his feet simultaneously. Live. I have never seen his equal.
Next Rush reaction should definitely be "Xanadu" live from "Exit Stage Left." As you note, Elizabeth, the complexity and richness these three remarkable musicians pack into each work is stunning. Xanadu is a 12 minute epic, so be prepared. All three of these guys are in the conversation as the best ever at their instruments. All are amazing, but the one that is busiest is Geddy Lee. Does vocals brilliantly, plays as good a rock bass as you will hear, and also plays synthesizers with his hands AND HIS FEET! Incredible. To fully appreciate Rush, you really have to see and hear them live. They are a musical feast. So fun to hear you appreciate their brilliance.
A comment from a musician from another band captures this. “You look at Neal’s drum/percussion set up and you think ‘this is just for show, no way he uses all of that.’ Then he uses everything in the first 5 minutes.” You could say the same thing about Alex and Geddy on those double neck rigs as well as Geddy’s synths for hands and feet. Unbelievable.
Everything RUSH does is masterful. Along the same lines of music styleas "Tom Sawyer", "Subdivisions" would be another buffet for a musician's ear palette
"No, don't be over!" How freaking cute is that? You never cease to amaze me with the way you "listen" to peoples' voices as well as the instruments. Your analytical breakdown of the entire song is extraordinary! I get that you are a vocal coach and it's part of your job. But to do it with the overwhelming enthusiasm that you portray is not "NORMAL". IT'S EXTRAORDINARY! That's why WE (your fans) tune into your page. Keep being you, and we'll keep watching! LOVED YOUR BREAKDOWN OF THIS SONG!
Please do their best song… Xanadu (LIVE). It’s longer and so satisfying! They each play like 50 instruments I swear and to watch it live shows their true mastery of their craft!
And the most amazing thing of all, they played all their stuff live, using keys, pedals, bass, double neck bass/12 strings double neck 6/12 string guitars. At some point 3 people play at least 12 instruments, often 3 each in one song. I saw them so many times I lost count. R.I.P. Neil.
For next Rush songs you can do Subdivisions, Red Barchetta, Time Stands Still (that one always makes me tear up) or Limelight. Such a great band musically and very Canadian. 🇨🇦 It always amazed me how just three guys could make such incredible music. Glad you are enjoying their music too!
They have a great vibe because they were/are (sadly, Neil has passed) the best of friends and tend to write songs with thoughtful lyrics. Also, all three people are/were wonderful human beings. Very down to earth, caring and compassionate.
One of Rush's underrated songs, and one of Geddy's finest vocal performances is 'Available Light' from the album Presto. At this stage in the bands career, Geddy wanted to become more of a 'singer'. I feel you'd find the song interesting to analyze. Also, thank you for showing Rush some love. Seeing the joy you find in their music is a pleasure to watch. This is how we Rush fans have been feeling for many many ....many years! Cheers!
Love, love, LOVE Geddy's late 80's vocals! His best vocal years were '80 - '96 to me overall. Here's a few songs from HYF & Presto that I'd pick fwiw: "Time Stand Still" Hold Your Fire (1987) Dare I say that Geddy's vocals are downright melodic here, & appropriately elegiac at points to match the lyrics. "Lock and Key" Hold Your Fire An under appreciated gem; I think Geddy's vocals particular match the lyrics & tonal shifts of the song here. "Mission" Hold Your Fire Absolutely one of Rush's most beautiful songs: musically, lyrically, & vocally. "High Water" Hold Your Fire An odd song; almost a mix of rock & new age. I find, again, that Geddy's vocals particularly align with the music/lyrics. "Show Don't Tell" Presto (1989) Another very catchy song; it's almost a rallying cry for evidence & reason based thinking over recklessness with the truth. "The Pass" Presto Rush's anti-suicide song. Geddy's vocals are particularly tender, emotive. One of Rush's best! "Presto" Presto The vocals are just fine, but what I really like is the perfect blend of acoustic & electric guitars & synths! "Red Tide" Presto 30 years ago Rush was sounding the alarm on climate change. Great blend of piano into the music, & urgent vocals match lyrics. "Available Light" Presto Just a beautiful song that, like other late 80's Rush songs, shows just how melodic Geddy's voice can be.
Some of my favorite vocals during that window are “ Hand Over Fist “, Ghost Of A Chance “, “Speed Of Love “, “Resist “, “ Open Secrets “. Geddy really mastered harmonies.
@@jabariparker2851 Yea, his vocals on Hold Your Fire and Presto I especially love; for me he just got better and better as the 80's went on, culminating in his melodic delivery on Hold Your Fire and Presto. I also love the vocals of Ghost of a Chance, Resist and Speed of Love after that period. I actually wrote a thread here (that I pulled the above picks from) about all of this, fwiw, in case you or anyone else might be interested: ua-cam.com/video/BZbzz47vjbk/v-deo.html&lc=UgxdEuscXFfxarSI3td4AaABAg Not sure if that link works; (how do you link to a UA-cam comment?) here's the text: Geddy is actually one of my 𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲 favorite vocalists. Here's some 𝑅𝓊𝓈𝒽 songs (all post 1980*) that I (fwiw as a 𝑅𝓊𝓈𝒽 nerd (⊡-⊡) ) would recommend: 𝐓𝐋;𝐃𝐑 top picks: Mission, Marathon, The Pass, Bravado, Animate, Faithless, The Garden. 𝐒𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐀𝐥𝐛𝐮𝐦/𝐘𝐞𝐚𝐫
"Countdown" Signals (1982) The urgency/excitement in Geddy's vocals I find matches the lyrics & tension of the song. "New World Man" Signals I find a hint of warmth in Geddy's vocals that make this just such a "nice/friendly/upbeat" song...like so many of Rush's. "Subdivisions" Signals The vocals are great, but this is simply one of the most infectious Rush songs ever. "Red Sector A" Grace Under Pressure (1984) One of Rush's most dark, & powerful, songs. The vocals are appropriately weighty, serious in tone. "Marathon" Power Windows (1985) One of my favorites; Geddy's vocals reach some "controlled highs" that match the "drive" of the lyrics/music. "Territories" Power Windows Geddy has an almost spoken word part in the middle of the song; also Neil's drumming is particularly fantastic. "Time Stand Still" Hold Your Fire (1987) Dare I say that Geddy's vocals are downright melodic here, & appropriately elegiac at points to match the lyrics. "Lock and Key" Hold Your Fire An under appreciated gem; I think Geddy's vocals particular match the lyrics & tonal shifts of the song here. "Mission" Hold Your Fire Absolutely one of Rush's most beautiful songs: musically, lyrically, & vocally. "High Water" Hold Your Fire An odd song; almost a mix of rock & new age. I find, again, that Geddy's vocals particularly align with the music/lyrics. "Show Don't Tell" Presto (1989) Another very catchy song; it's almost a rallying cry for evidence & reason based thinking over recklessness with the truth. "The Pass" Presto Rush's anti-suicide song. Geddy's vocals are particularly tender, emotive. One of Rush's best! "Presto" Presto The vocals are just fine, but what I really like is the perfect blend of acoustic & electric guitars & synths! "Red Tide" Presto 30 years ago Rush was sounding the alarm on climate change. Great blend of piano into the music, & urgent vocals match lyrics. "Available Light" Presto Just a beautiful song that, like other late 80's Rush songs, shows just how melodic Geddy's voice can be. "Dreamline" Roll the Bones (1991) One of the most "popiest" songs Rush ever created. Geddy's vocals match the speed/urgency of the music. "Bravado" Roll the Bones One of Geddy's best vocal performances; a very emotional song that always sends shivers down my spine. "Roll the Bones" Roll the Bones Another of Rush's almost "pop" hits; great lyrics with a memorable chorus...& even a rap section! "Ghost of a Chance" Roll the Bones One of the most realistic love songs ever penned. A deeply melodic song with remarkable depth of vocal delivery. "Animate" Counterparts (1993) Incredible song: great bass line, drums, nice atmosphere & vocal variations...all matched to a driving, almost elemental rhythm. "Stick it Out" Counterparts Another "hit" song, at least for Rush; a very heavy & driving song with upfront vocals, per most songs on the album. "Double Agent" Counterparts Wild & interesting song; has almost "evil Geddy" sections where he sings in a very up close & almost menacing way. "Half the World" Test For Echo (1996) Popish song; pretty melodic vocals from Geddy. **Feedback** (2004) This whole album is Rush covering classic rock songs that influenced them; Geddy's vocals pair well with all of them, which is something that I did not expect would be the case before it came out. "Far Cry" Snakes & Arrows (2007) Very good later era minor hit for Rush; Geddy's vocals have continued to mature nicely. "The Larger Bowl" Snakes & Arrows Much of this song is Geddy's voice & acoustic guitar; lyrically one of their simplest, & best. "Faithless" Snakes & Arrows Very interestingly structured song; some almost plaintive vocals. **Clockwork Angels** (2012) Rush's final album, & one of their very best (in many ways it is their best: it is their most developed, mature, & realized version of Rush). A very complex, deep, ambitious (even for Rush), powerful monster of an album, it truly takes several close listens to really get some grasp of (it didn't really "click" for me completely until about 10 good listens). Every song is a classic, but as for vocals I'd pick out 3 tracks: "Halo Effect", "Headlong Flight", & the absolutely heart wrenching grand finale to the album & their long, epic career: the elegiac & truly philosophical "The Garden". The guitar solo alone reduces me to tears EVERY SINGLE TIME. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I hope someone finds this list useful in some way! Let me know if you have any questions or recs for my favorite versions of these songs (some would be studio, some live when available). Rush on! *All of my picks are post 1980 because that's when Geddy decided to sing in a lower register and it really helped his delivery in my view. Also, many others will chime in with 70's Rush song recommendations, so I decided to highlight songs mostly from my favorite Rush era: 1980 - 1991. My favorite Geddy vocal era is '84 to '93, & I like the '96 to '12 era a lot too. I think his voice matured well, & he took care to develop more subtlety & variations in his vocals, which especially is evident on Rush's late 80's albums. Finally, as Elizabeth already listened to "The Spirit of Radio", she knows about Permanent Waves; same with "Tom Sawyer" & Moving Pictures, so no need to really recommend tracks from those albums (& others will anyway). Btw, I've listened to Rush, by far my favorite band, for over 30 years now, since I was 14 right around when Roll the Bones came out (& yes, that album as well as Counterparts were popular in my high school!). I have seen them on every tour, every leg, from '94 to '15 (over 10 times). They are a huge reason why I enjoy life at the level I've been (so far) lucky to!
One of the best quotes from the band is that "they take the music seriously, but they don't take themselves seriously". Kind of the attitude that the music displays. Tom Sawyer is really a non-typical rock song in many ways, song structure is really unique.
Rush is probably one of the absolute best bands to ever exist on how perfectly they change time signatures - they are so smooth and seamless, and they do them multiple times in each song. Please please please review Xanadu? It's also really long!
Xanadu is my favorite Rush song, I always say "they create a soundscape that leads you into Xanadu." One of the many I ask people to listen to as one of their first. Edit: That's an oxymoron. Oh well.
Next song for you: “Closer To The Heart”. Great lyrics and great Melody. You’ll get a good taste of Geddy’s upper register too. You also have commented about how smoothly Rush flows between changing time signatures without really feeing it. For a great example of this, “Limelight” is a must! Lots of changes you will barely notice! After the guitar solo, you’ll be shocked to hear Neil playing in 4/4 while the chordal arrangement (guitar, bass and vocals) are in 3/4. Polyrhythm! Great melody and lyrics as well. You’ll really love this song! It’s a favorite of Rush fans for sure. Also one of Alex’s best guitar solos (some say his best).
Great lyrics, awe inspiring vocals, but can we get real on that Melody for "Closer to the Heart." It is completely smacked together for the dreaded radio music industry IMO. "Oh, But wait, Jake its nice sounding, and even though it has a very revolution is the resolution message it makes everyone feel so nostalgic. Hmmm?? And insert extremely long awkward pause. I believe they farted this out to silence the sniveling of the PR rep for a record label) It's undeniably not the song that I feel represents their sound. Maybe I am wrong but I feel like there's a reason it doesn't come close to the sound of any other one of their songs. Is it too offensive to suggest that she listens to "A Passage to Bangkok" to hear the wonderment of the high register of Ged's vocals?
Not only the music has seamless time changes with excellent musicianship, but Gettys voice is so unstable and unique. He put so much soul into the lyrics.. All the players do. They don’t seem to care anybody thinks her says they do it their way. Their message always gives you something to rethink about. The words of music have changed peoples lives. Sincerity is so evident Please do more Rush analysis. There’s no other Band like rush.
Rush is good at "slight of ear", they distract you from the time changes so they aren't so jarring and just make everything flow together. Just Brilliant.
Rush Songs - To react to by length of song. Tom Sayer was 4:38 Subdivisions 5:38 Freewill 5:24 Limelight. 4:20 Fly By Night 3:22 Closer to the Heart 2:56 The best hands down Reaction to Rush on UA-cam. I feel like I’m listening to it the first time again
Rush is truly one of the all-time great bands. To me the most amazing thing about these three guys is that Geddy and Alex met in 5th grade going to the same elementary school in Canada, started playing music together in grade school, then added the final piece in Neil in 1974 when they were all still in HS to form this fantastic 3-piece band whom so many have enjoyed ever since. When you read about them or watch videos of the 3 together they really were the best of friends and never let their egos and success get in the way of their friendship or their family lives with their wives and kids. They went on an incredible journey and had a very special lasting friendship doing what all three loved together until the end when Neil couldn't physically play anymore. The same 3 guys as Rush making music for over 4 decades together...very, very rare indeed.
Alex and Geddy met in 7th grade, and they dropped out of high school and formed Rush with John Rutsey. Rutsey played on the first album, and Peart joined only after the band signed to an American label (the first album was an indie release)
John had to drop out from Rush before their tour for their first album, he had diabetes and it would have been hell on him touring. Lol, they (Rush’s managers) approached Neil at his father’s farming equipment supply store in St. Catharines Ontario. Neil auditioned for Alex and Geddy and the rest was history. Before Rutsey left Rush, they performed at Laura Secord Secondary school here in St. Catharines, the video is somewhere on UA-cam.
If you would like something longer I would suggest you watch the" Xanadu" live from Exit Stage Left, masterpiece! Also "Limelight" off the Moving Pictures album ( The same album Tom sawyer is on ), it's basically Neil Peart writing about his struggle with fame.
We just released merchandise! Check out the full line-up here: thecharismaticmerch.com
_Bravado_ from the album *Roll The Bones*
Dreamline, Ghost Of A Chance, Roll The Bones
Trees
I bet Geddy Lee would be open to be interviewed. His passion for Rush is unparalleled. FYI, he has a passion for collecting baseball memorabilia and basses, which could be a subject for how his passion to collect influences his music and vocals.
Very nice! Just stumbled upon your video after watching some Rush...please check out their song Limelight, you'll be glad you did 🙂
"skies are wide"
This woman lives every day the way we each came into the world: free of prejudice and full of curiosity. She’s truly a wonder to behold.
You are 100% correct, it’s a joy to watch her dissect Music and vocals was such enthusiasm and appreciation. she is truly a wonder of nature. And she never fails to bring a smile to my face.
God I wish my wife was more like this !!!
Love her.
Totally agree
absolutely.
She is something for sure.
It's a long piece, but 2112 is required listening if you want to get the full impact of Geddy's vocal stylings and what he was capable of. By this time period of Tom Saywer (early 80s) , he had laid back on his vocals, and the band was pulling back on the complexity of their music. 2112 is essentially an Opera.
Totally agreed!
I love them all, but hands down 2112 is my favorite Rush album. And I still have my album that I bought back in 1976 when it was released when I was 9.
Absolutely 100%
Amen to that. He has a lot of diversity in his voice on that song, and I think Elizabeth would love it.
That's going to be at least an hour long video.
R.I.P. Neil. One of the worlds greatest drummers. He is missed!
For me, personally, Neil is absolutely #1. John Bonham is a close #2. But Neil is still #1 and, for me, always will be.
When people ask "who would you bring back if you could?" I always name a musician. Neil moved the goalpost for what can be expected from a rock and roll drummer.
Absolute genius on the drums, Bonham, Powell what a line up in Heaven.
You absolutely NEED to check out Terry Bozzio, as far as drums go. He blew my mind when I heard him. I am a percussionist, and he opened a door for me. His kit makes the one from this video look like child's play. Chromatically scaled toms, multiple snares, it's crazy.
Sir, you said, "One of." I don't mean to be rude, but, I think you mean to say "Thee greatest."
They don't call Neil The Professor for nothin'! I always found it cool that he went back and learned how to drum in a new way in 1994-1995 after 30 years of drumming. He did it AGAIN in 2007! Even when you're on top, humility will let you get even better.
Geddy Lee casually being one of the best bass players ever 👏🏻
agree
Yes!
And playing both keyboards and bass often at the same time
Yeah, he's awesome. That keyboard part he starts playing on bass is not easy.
From the time I first saw Geddy leaping from KB to bass and back, or playing both at once, I resented having a separate bassist and keyboard player in my hard rock / heavy metal band of 19 years.
Neil Peart would judge how his night would go by how well he got through this song.
RIP Professor.
You know a song is tough when the Professor messes up. RIP Neil.
R.I.P. NEIL , Your Silence Is Deafening \m/
I love the song Western Sunset on Envy of None's recent album, written in his honor :)
Fact!! RIP Neil.
@@AB-ez4rm the Professor himself said they never got tired of playing it because it was was challenge!
"NO! Don't be over!" Aww!! Everyone that does Reaction videos, take note on her loving analysis and exploration of detail. More Rush, please and thank you!
yes! and i also thought, she could have a bit more satisfaction hearing them play it live... the ending is excellent, never shoulda been a fade out (just like Red Barchetta) 😎
Well, it has to be over for Red Barchetta to begin. After Tom Sawyer comes Red Barchetta. It's the law.
Rush is my favorite band, you should listen to tons of it ♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️
I believe their level of musicianship is above what most people can comprehend or fully appreciate.
Very true why I love them
Reminds me of DT’s When Dream and Day Unite…
There is a great interview of Neil years later 16:18 saying “Tom Sawyer is a really hard song to play, I need to really practice it.” From the guy who created it. Who happens to be on probably top 5 of all time drummers including jazz drummers. Says a lot about the level they were playing on Moving pictures.
Other popular bands have rush posters in their bedroom.
@doubled5383 That album is one their best, too, so many great songs, I still have my original vinyl record collection of their album and this one is one of my favourite in my collection. Next would be the live "exit stage left" double album.
I've been listening to this song since it came out in 1981. 41 years. Conservatively I estimate I've heard it 5,000 times. And today I'm sitting here with tears in my eyes as you experience it for the first time, and point out elements I never notice in all that time. Thank you.
Torn between ignoring this idea, finishing adorable, or pondering, you don't get something for nothing...
@@scotj2servu. The boys today are oblivious now. Red Barcheta is more pertinent today rather than some guy's story that also criticized a god that tortures children with flies burrowing into their eyes while the suffer.
/Please don't look into this
Opera vocal coach, so much training on the details and she definitely is a great teacher, so we can learn so much from what she knows on any song in my opinion! I think the performers don't understand what she is interpreting, so much have super, natural talent!
Thanks for the “41 years”😂 I can’t believe it was so long ago feels like yesterday
I have the same amount of time in the band and I agree 100%.
If you've not already done so - "Subdivisions" has always inspired me with the tonal changes, incredible meaning and amazing musical capability of the Trio. The breadth of vocal tones is wonderful.
John Dennis ---- I agree with you and as a huge Rush fan, and so many tracks from all their albums that are incredible, Subdivisions from Signals is such a great song. But so is The Analog Kid, which is the second track after Subdivisions. But, the whole album is incredible. It has a special place in my heart. I was a Jr in high school and life was really beginning to become grown up. Getting my drivers license a year prior but buying my first car and having my "serious" first love my first job, finally having my own bedroom after sharing with my brother throughout growing up. Lots of firsts and lasts. 17 yrs old was and should be a transitional time for males. It's when you are transitioning from a boy to a young man into a man.
I would put on the headphones and listen to a lot music and Signals was one of the go to records daily for a long time. Probably in my top ten all time, can't live without albums.
@@13_13k "Subdivisions" was my introduction to Rush and it had such a huge impact that I remember the day I first heard it. The track "Losing It" even brings back a scene so realistic that it's like looking at an old photograph from that day. I branched out to Rush's other albums but "Subdivisions" is the most near, and dear, to my heart.
One of my favorites 💯🔥🤘
@@hopper1 --- there are lots of things that can trigger memories in the human brain, the two that are the most powerful of allthings to do that are sense of smell and music. Both can instantly put you in the most detailed memory, and the emotional state of that time. Good and bad situations can return in your mind so vividly that you can almost physically feel like you are there. It can make you smile, it can make you melancholy, and it can make you cry. Music is emotional when it is written and performed by talented people.
Subdivisons has always been one of my absolute favourites, even if I don't rate Signals that highly as an album. Neil's drum track on that song is phenomenal.
"Oh, no. Don't be over!"
That is a wonderful tribute to the Canadian Triumvirate that is Rush.
She needs a dose of necromancer or 2112!
😁🥰
Owning every Rush album, and seeing them from the time they opened for KISS, I can tell you, Rush did it the 'hard' way. They earned their ever-increasing fan base one listener at a time. It was always "dude, ya GOTTA hear THIS band", and another Rush fan was added. Rush just did it 'their' way, and hoped others might like it, too.
We certainly have. Thanks Dirk, Lerxst, and Pratt.
Nobody will ever be like them ever! Just absolutely spectacular live. I saw The Signals Tour in Phoenix. They were not only a great band, they were the kind of people you would want to spend time with! Just real cool guys not huge egos, just a great bunch of guys! Should have went to other shows.
13:54 ❤
Rush is literally perfect as a trio. They cannot exist without each other. Geddy's voice is unique and instantly recognizable.
RIP Neil Peart. Rest easy Professor.
I have seen Neil Peart at the 1984 Texxas Jam at the Houston Astrodome. Incredible.
Goat
If I know the Professor he's not resting, no he's debating with scientists and philosophers or doing research in the akoshic records archives 🥁
Though I can't agree on the perfection usage, since perfection is not possible, but...but...I haven't come across a band that to me IS as As Good or as Fantastic as Rush. I've been checking different bands since they started, but...Rush peaked way over Led Zeppelin and several others that were huge. Not that I don't enjoy Zep from time to time still, Rush just remains the Best through all the ages so far. I cannot think of When I've heard a Rush song or music and wanted the song to finish before another of their or someone elses kicked in.
No one Rests In Peace, all intelligent energy continues to grow and adventure.
@@kellyjohns6612 That's not how the Akashic records functions.. But I did enjoy the funny.
If you want one of the best examples of Geddy’s singing, just go straight to their 20-minute long, sci-fi rock-opera magnum opus, 2112. Geddy shifts his voice to take on different characters, and the expressiveness of his voice, along with the emotional musical arrangements, fit the narrative masterfully. Form the highs of discovery, to the lows of hopelessness and despair, you will be moved.
100% agree. The new cartoon version (ala the new Spirit Of Radio release) is a work of art, too.
Goodness, yes. It would take her 2 hours to get through the whole thing and react and analyze each section, though.
Great description!
2112 was actually released in 76
Normally I would suggest the duology of cygnus X1 and Hemispheres, but from a vocal perspective, I think 2112 is the more interesting listen.
I love her enthusiasm, the absolute glee! It renews my appreciation for music I've been familiar with for decades.
well said, I feel the same way
Elizabeth, you are an absolute joy to spend time with. 😊 I love how much you love Rush,and their complicated masterpieces.
“Xanadu” is prime mid-1970s Rush and nicely demonstrates this era, the era just prior to “Tom Sawyer.” “Xanadu” is a showcase of the band’s instrumental virtuosity and Geddy’s voice and is symphonic in scope, clocking in at 11 minutes. It’s genius and I think you’d really enjoy it. Thank you for the wonderful work.
The only issue with this is that there are no vocals for the first half of the song, which certainly isn't a problem musically but might be a problem for a vocal reactanalysis video! Up to you, Elizabeth - I'd love to see your reaction anyway...
@@elvwood I agree. No offence meant, but it would take Elizabeth half an hour to get to the vocals.
it's the best thing they ever put on tape.....and i prefer the mid-late 80s output
Oooh, another good call!
@@elvwood YES YES Xanadu is a must!! Amazing instrumental sections that I think Elizabeth would love regardless of the fact that it takes a little bit to get to the vocals. But the thing is that it’s so good that you don’t even realize that 5 minutes have gone by before the first vocals are sung! And then once the vocals do come in I think she’d love them as well! Definitely my recommendation!
Watching Elizabeth geek out to the instrumental breakdown of this classic song the exact same way a lot of us have been for decades is seriously the best part of my week right now!! I just love how a classically trained musician instantaneously gets what those of us who adore Rush always have while most casual Rock fans just completely disregard or even criticize. Thank you for this, Elizabeth! 💙👍🏼😃
I agree. Seeing her geek out just made my day!
Me too bud!!!!!
The greatness of Elizabeth is that she expresses perfectly both the technical competence and her sheer enjoyment as a fan.
My brother, I couldn’t have said it better myself!
She is so expressive. A joy to watch.
The older I get the more I realize what a force Rush was. RIP Neil.
Hear hear.
Absolutely, highly underrated in many circles. Each of these guys is/was a virtuoso in their own right! So good!
One of the most successful bands ever, but they're never mentioned in the same breath as others.
I love rush to this day in 2024. My dad took me to see them in 2007 during their snakes and arrows tour. It was the best live show I've ever been to.
RIP to Neil Peart. I hope he is with his wife and daughter right now. 🥰😇🙏
Amen. Same with Steely Dan. Couldn't stand either of them as a kid. Now I'm positive they are two of the top 10 bands of all time. IMO of course.
Really nice to see someone really focus on Geddy’s style and vocal talents. He doesn’t get the appreciation he deserves.
Such a unique style, and as she said....it is perfect for their music.
I singular vocal talent.
It's a gift to have high level knowledge of music and still get giddy over performances. I adore watching you react.
I cannot help but to chuckle watching her expressions and enthusiasm!!! Spot on!
Giddy over Geddy.
One of the greatest bands of all time, and the greatest trio to ever exist (in my opinion)
there's a trio out of Japan called Ninjen Isu. Not like Rush but damn good. check out their song Heartless Scat.
Right on! Best band period, before during and until the end of the world!!!
This entire album (Moving Pictures) is a masterpiece, without a weak moment on it and with a great sound throughout. As others have stated, "Limelight" (to me) is one of their most satisfying songs, changing time signature nearly every other measure, and so transparently that the average listener doesn't even realize it. Best band I've ever heard at playing unusual time signatures. One other masterpiece that I haven't seen mentioned yet that will fill your need for longer tunes is "Hemispheres".
Don't forget A Farewell to Kings!
In fact, from Kings through to Moving Pictures are just perfect, in fact sod it, throw 2112 in, go from 76 to 81 all those albums just epic (could just be my childhood I guess!)
Arguably even better than 2112!
Moving Pictures is an interesting album (and of course excellent) as Rush tried to do shorter songs here compared to the 70s, and still retain the feeling of their older albums. IMHO they managed that perfectly, and I'm saying that as a huge fan of their early stuff and concept albums like 2112.
Elizabeth, the fans all know, but you might not, that "Hemispheres" is part 2. Part 1 is "Cygnus X-1", from the previous album. (Is there any other band that's ended an album with a cliffhanger?)
Definitely Limelight! The way it is able to be catchy and simultaneously switch time signature relentlessly yet imperceptibly, is one of the most amazing feats of songwriting and musicianship in my opinion.
I love how much she loves good music. Also she doesn’t have a pretentious bone in her body, and that is a rare thing for an opera singer…
Usually females do not get Rush. This Woman knows her stuff. Fun to someone who understands music hear Rush for the first time.
Do you know opera singers? They're actually not nearly as pretentious as you think, they're about as down to earth as nearly everyone else, they just also happen to like music some consider pretentious and elitist
@@shawnbeaty7462 She's clearly an educated musician and she has a sincere passion for music and discovery, you can tell she has a great heart and I don't doubt this she is skilled at her craft. One of the best channels on UA-cam.
@@shawnbeaty7462 my brother took me to see Rush when I was 14/15. Trust me, females can get Rush, it was a pivotal moment in my life
@@shawnbeaty7462 my wife loves rush
“Limelight” is another one from the same album that warrants a reaction. It plays with time signature changes in much the same way as “Tom Sawyer”, plus it has what is arguably the greatest guitar solo of all time that effectively conveys the loneliness and feeling of isolation reflected in the lyrics. It would definitely be worth your time to check out.
It is certainly Alex's favorite solo.
On Rick Beato’s breakdown of “Limelight” he talks about whether or not the intro is 7/4 or 3/4 & 4/4 alternating.
My favorite short Rush song. I could sit there and listen to just the guitar by itself for hours. Just amazing.
@TheCharismaticVoice I agree. "Limelight" should be your next Rush pick. Lyrics, vocals, rhythm, duration. IMHO, "Subdivisions" would also be an option.
@@Dan-C-71 Many folks like to break down odd time signatures into pairs, like 5/4 in to 2 and 3 (or 3 and 2). There's some merit to that approach. I've never considered it, but I wonder if taking 6/8 and turning it into 2 and 4 (or 4 and 2) would be interesting and work well?
One of the World's best drummers for all times who has left us with many memories.
Neil was one of the few you could honestly argue as being a rock god that man was superhuman
This song was recorded seven years BEFORE Elizabeth was born. So glad the next generations get to enjoy Rush as much as we did in 1979.
Tf is ELIZABETH??
@@johnbhai7147 The person in the video..
Moving PIctures was released in Feb 1981
I’m 14 and I rlly like rush
It was recorded 21 years before I was born and I consider it a true masterpiece. :) Metal never dies!
it is a life treasure to watch someone with a musical background watch this group for the first time. Rush was so underappreciated, it's almost criminal.
“Xanadu” live is a MUST ! From the “exit stage left” tour 1982 just the 3 of them live on stage - every sound you hear is being played by them live…….Geddy is on vocals, double neck bass, keyboards, synth and while playing bass is using foot pedals to play keyboard chords simultaneously
Neil is playing every percussion instrument known to man, inc tubular bells, whilst Alex combines 6 string lead guitar with 12 string rhythm on his double neck guitar, shifting effortlessly from one neck to the other during complex sections, ALL LIVE in 1982 !
I went to the concert at Long Beach, CA and sat in the loge just above Geddy's spot. I remember just being blown away as he turned into a musical octopus watching him on bass, keyboards, synth and bass foot pedals. Will never forget seeing it live.
Please allow me to correct 2 things. First, it's the "Exit Stage Left 1981" (instead of 1982) tour.
Second, the double neck guitar used by Geddy Lee includes a 4 string bass and a 12 string guitar (both Rickenbaker). Unfortunately, the video doesn't show Geddy Lee playing the 12 string at the end of the song, the camera prefered aiming elsewere.
I'm surprised Neil never got a tam-tam! Does anyone know if he ever used one?
i gotta check that out.. i usually only listen to the studio version of xanadu partly because i need more of that doppler effect Bell in my life 😄
And they did it live on the 77 /78 kings tour I believe, the end is hard doing 6 string guitar while playing bass pedals so both guitar parts could be represented live. I believe it is the only song they did that on
My God Neil just kills it on this song!! The camera can't even keep up with how fast the sticks move at times because of how complex the drum sequences are. What a legend.
The great thing about Rush is that you can say that (tailored to the respective instrument of course) about any member on any song and be right.
His groove is unreal. Sure, he had the chops, but that double time ride is so tasty. Best pocket in the biz.
This is the moment in history Sony was like we better ramp up high speed cameras. We wouldn’t have them otherwise😜
Hardest working man in the hardest working band.
How great is "Tom Sawyer"? Arguably the greatest drummer of all time said he had a hard time playing it....and he wrote it.
She said “No, don’t be over” at the end. I love it! I saw Rush live in concert in 1977, and they were excellent. Like she said, so much, and such great sound, from only 3 guys. In my opinion, they are the most musically talented hard rock trio EVER.
Yes they are!!!
Seen them 18 times
Was that Farewell or Permanent Waves? Max Webster open?
Too bad she’ll never attend one of their live shows. Since Signals I’ve attended every show and from R30 on traveled around US & CAN to see multiple shows.
So glad I had those experiences
I graduated in 1984. I haven't seen a better band since.
Seeing you love Geddy Lee's voice as much as I do literally brought tears to my eyes.
Being a Torontonian, having Rush running through my entire life has been extraordinary. No-one is better live, NO-ONE.
Uh, well.... I saw Grateful Dead. (No comparison) .
I'm 72 years old and I came to the Rush Party late but I finally arrived. I always hated Geddy's voice but now I cannot get enough of him. Call it an epiphany. These three guys have enormous talent.
Getty Lee doesn't have a bad voice, he can sing. It's an interesting voice and it is part of the bands sound. He's like Tom Petty etc etc. The voice is just an instrument.
just hitting 60 myself, don't know what I was thinking, I just blew rush off. How did I do that, Neil's drumming is insanely good, Alex is crazy and I didn't even realise geddy played bass
@@DiZastur All three of them are musical genius. Alex is a very technical player
I like the Signals album but am still struggling to enjoy Geddy's voice. Shame, because I'd really like to get into Rush more (not Rushmore!).
You should definitely do the 2112 suite. It'll satisfy your craving for a long Rush song, is split into different movements, and has not only some of the best Rush riffs but also some vocals that give me chills towards the climax. You won't be disappointed.
2112 has my vote, the whole album is amazing. My personal favorite since the first time I heard it many years ago. Absolutely fantastic piece of music based on a book by Ann Rand.
Hear hear! It's like one long song separated into parts. Many transitions. A masterpiece.
100%!
There are bands, and then there are musicians. Rush, beyond a doubt, were musicians of the finest caliber. Rest in peace, Professor. Keep rockin', Lee and Lifeson!
10-4
I hope Geddy Lee sees this video. Love how you appreciate all the details many voice coaches don’t.
I love Elizabeth's knowledge, passion, giddiness and honesty. She's very genuine in her reactions. She's like a kid in a candy store.
"Tom Sawyer" as Neil has stated on many occasions, is one of the toughest songs for him to play properly. He said he loved this song because "it challenged him every night" he had to play it. RIP Professor. Gone but NEVER forgotten.
It is one song I aspire to play even at 80% just once in my life lol
@@OddBallPerformance, right. Exactly. 👍👍👍
@@OddBallPerformance I'm only a hobby drummer, but I'm good if I go three bars without missed hits, and keeping in time.
Hemispheres is an amazing song that is actually the follow up to another great song called Cygnus X1. It’s my belief that they should be enjoyed together.
That's why he was the Professor... I've been playing on and off for40yrs and can't play this song..
As I get older, the more I realize our time is very short. The musical legends of my youth are passing too often. Their talent for composing and performing incredible music is unmatched.
Hey Elizabeth, they pull all of their songs off live and they don't use backing tracks. I recommend you checkout "Xanadu" live from the Exit Stage Left concert. I think you'll love it.
Seconded. Make sure it's the Exit Stage Left version from 1981. It's Rush at the height of their powers.
Will also second. Xanadu, followed be Red Barchetta.
Yes definitely! The Exit Stage Left concert. It's pre-midi, so they are doing all the sounds. Neil with an orchestra percussion section, and more guitar necks than players. It also has excellent quality for an analog recording from 1981, as well. Then you will be ready for 2112.
Or Xanadu from R30 again live
Check out the remastered 1981 footage from StickHits; even better.
"Just these three guys..." The epiphany that every new Rush fans quickly realizes. Made possible through God-given talent combined with an incredible work ethic and never being fully satisfied with the outcome. Simply the best rock band - ever. Unrivaled masters of their craft.
That is why she needs to react to a live version of Rush sometime to see the theater of the song.
You’re not kidding. I think the moment when I became a hard core Rush fan was the moment I saw the band’s pic in the local paper before a concert. Three people. I’m like, “this can’t be everybody!!!” But it was. My respect level exploded at that point. I could not believe that much sound was made by three people. 😎
@@faervas1234 You have to admit that was a good video. Le Studio in Canada with real snow outside.
Everything you mentioned is why I'm starting to really love The Warning. Plus they're sisters. In about 15 years they will rival Rush
We said the same thing about ZZ Top at the time. Then they started playing...
You should reach out to Geddy Lee and talk about his singing and Rush's love of shifting time signatures.
I’ll second that!
I kind of doubt Geddy would come on the show (though maybe), but I bet privately he'd be interested in what Elizabeth had to say.
@@dHolbach77 I agree. I would be very surprised if Geddy would sit down for an interview.
For those curious, it has nothing to do with ego, it's just that the guys have always been fairly private, with guitarist Alex Lifeson being the most outgoing of the three.
@@dHolbach77 If _anyone_ can get Geddy to do a Tea With Lee, it would be Elizabeth and Kurt.
@@themechaniacal1558 I'm inclined to say it does have something to do with his ego - in that he's uncomfortable with adulation, even in more mild forms!
OTOH, he and Alex both like to recognize people, especially experts/musicians like Elizabeth, that think their work has some value. That is, they are inclined to give such people some time, or even just a public message (like they've done with some UA-cam musicians that have played their material).
Neil - Best. Drummer. Ever! Geddy’s voice and technique pair perfectly with Neil’s precision. Just amazing…
"No! Don't let it be over!" That's such a genuine, honest and awesome response!
Elizabeth has no equal as an absolutely delightful creator on UA-cam, a complete joy to watch as she does full-body reactions to great music that is new to her. Her insights and commentary have made songs I have heard hundreds of times even more enjoyable, and her joy of discovery are contagious and refreshing. The act of "throwing a kiss" to her audience at the end of her videos is so obviously genuine that it makes me smile every time. She is a brilliant gem of a human being.
I couldn’t have said it any better.
100% agree!
I love watching her she's like a Geddy little kid she gets so into it and her facial expressions are so cute while she listens and antilizes the music
"Limelight", "Closer to the Heart", "Working Man", "Free Will", "Fly by Night" are all songs worth analyzing & listening to. Glad you're analyzing more Rush, Elizabeth! \m/
I agree, but there are too many songs from Rush worth listening to. Would take days to go through all of them.
"The Spirit of Radio", "Animate", "Dreamline"...
80's kid, so Rush to me was Subdivisions, Show Don't Tell, and Superconductor.
@@LordNelsonkm Yes, Yes and Yes to all three, but especially Subdivisions.
Fly by Night is my personal favorite Rush song…
Elizabeth is a monument to how geeky (in the best way) true musicians are.
When she popped a gasket watching SRV its flooding down in Texas , I lmfao 😂❤
“I need songs to be longer.”
Well… 😏 you’ve got the right band for that. Absolutely love your reactions!
I came to the comments section to say the same thing.
I'm excited for the reaction to a lengthy and beautiful Rush masterpiece!!
2112, anyone?
it's too bad La Villa Strangiato is an instrumental. (BTW they wrote that to see if they could write a song they couldn't play)
@@johnanderson7739 Yeah, I was thinking the same thing. Such a beautifully complex piece, but no singing for her to break down.
“Though his mind is not for rent, to any god or government. Always hopeful yet discontent. He knows changes aren’t permanent… BUT CHANGE IS!” I want that on my gravestone.
I miss Neil Peart as a lyricist every bit as much as I miss him as a drum hero.
100% … Neil was a true Gentleman and of course an insanely talented drummer, on the high side of the top 3 … imho.
Absolutely!! Such a loss!
Agree 💯. Well put.
Neil didn't write these lyrics.
@@rollomaughfling380
🤔 who said he did?
Wow! She really is hands down the best reaction and analysis UA-camr.
agreed!
Elizabeth....you are a gem!! The level of detail you notice and bring to our attention is amazing....I have always noticed these details too, which is why the music moves me, but never knew how to quantify them or describe them with words like you do. Thank you for your dedication in becoming such an expert at what you do and for being so brilliant.
People bang on about the Professor behind the drums (and with all due respect he deserves all of it) but there's something also special about Geddy Lee in concert Singing while simultaneously playing the Base and the Synth. Geddy's voice is an instrument that fits the band's orchestral arrangement, it's perfect for what the band does.
Geddy is my favorite musician of all time. One of the most talented and skilled performers of all time. Show me 1 other person who plays 3 instruments live and sings 🤘🤘🤘
So true, and let's not forget the bass pedals to boot!
@@davidhogan7008 well....Pete Trewavas from Marillion plays Bass, sings backing vocals, and uses bass pedals to trigger samples and baselines. He also has a Rickenbacker 4080 so he can play guitar in a couple of songs while using bass pedals.
She’s so right about Rush being warm and uplifting. A friend once asked me what their lyrics about and I said, “they’re mostly about being a good person and being decent to one another” and she was really surprised I would like anything like that because almost all the other music I enjoy tends to be dark, pessimistic or depressing
I love her unabashed enthusiasm and her sincerity. It's refreshing in this era of clickbait and phony hype. Excellent breakdown!
Me also!!! Agreed!!
She's got smiles that reach all the way up to her eyes, you can't fake those!
100% her unabashed joy at the discovery of music she didn't expect is happiness embodied
It’s such a joy to see and hear the reaction she has of the complexities of this song by someone who really appreciates good music !
It always males me happy to meet females that appreciate Rush!
I absolutely love this woman’s enthusiasm and love for music.
Rush is an incredibly deep rabbit hole, with some of the most amazing lyrics you will ever hear, and instrumental complexity to make you wonder how three people are doing all this at once. I very strongly recommend "Xanadu", live version from Exit Stage Left as your next stop. [EDIT: Also, it's over 11 minutes long, so it's a "full course dinner" song]
Exit Stage Left is, as a whole, absolutely prime Rush. Virtuosic and engrossing, it’s a showcase of their massive talent as musicians bejeweled by some of their best music from the period.
Search for the Xanadu live in Montreal 1981 60fps version.
I have to say; after watching your reaction to TomSawyer; my heart absolutely melted with love for you!
@@dansims5855 I was at that concert (still lived in Montreal at the time). It was at the Montreal Forum, the former home of the Montreal Canadiens hockey team. Really great concert (like Rush has ever had a bad concert). Crowd strangely enough was almost half French Canadian (French Canadians really loved progressive rock, you should have seen the city get turned upside down for ELP and PInk Floyd).
She's coming into the wondrous warm shell of Rush fandom. So many songs...so many hits...and 50 years of magic. Welcome, our young sister. 😎
Rush are 3 phenomenally talented and humble individuals. Listening and watching Elizabeth react in her wondrous way is just a joy. I love that you get so much pleasure from their changes in time signatures
yep, particularly when she says "No dont end not yet" Lol, we have all felt like that with Rush, classic!
You could isolate each part of this song, they would almost be a great song on their own. Each time I listen, I try and focus on a different part.
She is geeking out hard...
Gold 80's - nothing will be better than this period. no computers, no added musical instruments, no edited voices - just talent :) :)
R.I.P. Neil Peart he was one of the best drummers that will ever walk this planet.
The best of the best! Thank You Neil for the memories!🖤🥁🤘
I've seen Neil cover Buddy Rich.... can Buddy cover Neil?..... Neil is hands down the best so far...
The Professor was THE greatest✌🏼
"One of"? I say #1, with John Bonham being a close #2.
I'd put him right at the top, along with John Bonham. They're kind of the yin and yang. You can feel how calculating Peart is in everything he does with that drum kit; not a single sixteenth is out of place. The only drummer I can think of who's that precise is Kai Hahto of Wintersun/Nightwish.
“YYZ” is a pure instrumental eargasm. Each member’s elite, master class, level of musicianship is front and center.
I love that it's them travelling through an airport and going to another destination - YYZ is the airport code for Toronto's Pearson airport for non-Canadians out there
Yessss…… “Y Y ZED”
Isn't YYZ a manufacturer of zippers in jeans? That's Where the title came from
The Live in Rio version. When the crowd is singing along with the instrumental, you know it has something.
@@BendsMusic Nope, the band is Canadian and it's a reference to the airport en.wikipedia.org/wiki/YYZ_(song)#Title_and_composition
I would love to see your reaction to "Closer to the Heart". The vocals are superb.
I would love to see Ms. Zharoff do a reaction vid to Closer to the Heart also, but even if she doesn't I'd urge her to at least listen to it, specifically the Exit... Stage Left version as the crowd sings along from the beginning.
Like @New World Puck said.. the Exit Stage Left version
I would love this too but maybe a little later live version with the extended ending.
or Xanadu too.
I agree, she could react to either the studio version or the live version, both are good.
I've been a Rush fan since 5th grade; I still remember the first time I heard Tom Sawyer on a school field trip bus ride. Seeing someone who loves and understands music appreciate Rush is so heartwarming. I wish she could have experienced them live!
Sadly, most people that dislike Rush claim it's because of Geddy's voice. All 3 members are musical geniuses and Geddy has an amazing ability to shape his vocals. Tightest band in history.
I agree. His voice is able to cut through the complexity of their music.
Steely Dan has entered the chat.
I’ll never understand that. His voice is not only amazing in itself, but it’s unique. They certainly aren’t my favorite but why does that matter? They are amazing on all levels.
Nobody had a more unique voice then Gedddy and in my opinion made Rush what a legendary band they were
You should watch the interview where Geddy and Alex are talking about recording with Neil, and what's it was like. Neil, being the writer, would create these songs, and as Geddy put it, him and Alex would play around his creations. Neil was the epitome of a professional musician. When they recorded videos, his "play over"was always perfect: never a beat missed.
May month, there was a tribute convey that Rush played at, and the drummer (no idea who it was) did a good job. But you could tell it wasn't Neil.
Saw Rush 3 times. One of the loudest bands I had ever seen. Geddy Lee would be playing the pedal keyboard, bass, and singing at the same time. The dude was incredible.
And moving the mic with his nose.
I witnessed the same thing
Iron Maiden was the loudest I've ever seen. Literally had wax coming out of my ears.
This is great! After hearing this song about 3 billion times in the last 40 years and seeing it played live countless times, you have given me a new appreciation for it. Thank you!
What he said 👆!!
That's what she does and it's amazing!
I don't care what anyone says ,Neil Peart is the best drummer of all time ❤
That’s for sure
Also, a great lyricist! He wrote this song and many others. 😊
Amen, and he just kept getting better.
He wasn’t a drummer.
He was a master percussionist!
Hell yeah , beyond contestation!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I love when a vocal coach/opera singer who's supposedly would focus mostly on the vocal performance, spontaneously starts to count the beat because she totally appreciate the odd time signature when it kicks in. A true Rush classic (it's 41 years ago now.. Damn I'm old), and it was both enlightening and entertaining to hear your analysis and over all heartful spontaneous comments (as always) on everything musically going on here. Keep up the good work!
Well she does have 3 music degrees.
Rush is a wildly underappreciated band. Your reaction is like every music lover's reaction. Listening to Rush for the first time is like listening to Bach for the first time.
They didn't look like Peter Frampton. lol
Each one of these dudes is top 10 all time at their instruments, if not top 5.
Damn skippy!! Nice recommendation!!
they had 14 platinum albums, 3 multi platinum albums, and were nominated for 7 grammys. Wtf does the word "underappreciated" mean to you guys?
@@philipdillon83 Those numbers refer to sales. Which shows how popular they were among fans. However, they were really underappreciated by critics. They never really make it in to the "best" lists. They are also underappreciated in modern times because of critics not liking them, this causes less exposure, making it harder to find them.
@@philipdillon83 you tell em my friend. They don't know Lerxst, Pratt and Dirk like we do.
It is truly a joy to vicariously experience a "first listen" of this old favorite through your ears. This has been a real treat. Thank you!
It's a real joy to watch you become so enthralled in the music. We all love the music and you help us understand why. Lol. Thanks!
Watching Elizabeth totally nerding out( saying that in the most respectful way possible) on fantastic music is giving me life. Her facial expressions are something i only thought I'd see from a Disney Princess and those huge blue eyes just top off the whole ensemble. The giggles when something really hits her are fantastic and her assessment of the music as a whole , the nuances and breaking down the song into its parts and the descriptions keeps me bingeing on her words of wisdom. I always had a deep deep love for music of all kinds..but i'm starting to look at my old favorites in a completely different light now.
Her entheusiasm brings me back every time!
Isn't it great? She's like a little kid at Disney for the first time, but behind all of that innocent exuberance is this expertise about music. It's fantastic.
Well said.
Disney is a pedophile company, fyi.
I've seen Rush play four times and Geddy is a freak of nature in a good way.
It's simply inhuman how he can play complicated riffs on the bass, sing lyrics and play the keyboards with his feet simultaneously. Live.
I have never seen his equal.
Except for Zeppelin’s John
Paul
Jones, maybe?
Next Rush reaction should definitely be "Xanadu" live from "Exit Stage Left." As you note, Elizabeth, the complexity and richness these three remarkable musicians pack into each work is stunning. Xanadu is a 12 minute epic, so be prepared.
All three of these guys are in the conversation as the best ever at their instruments. All are amazing, but the one that is busiest is Geddy Lee. Does vocals brilliantly, plays as good a rock bass as you will hear, and also plays synthesizers with his hands AND HIS FEET! Incredible.
To fully appreciate Rush, you really have to see and hear them live. They are a musical feast. So fun to hear you appreciate their brilliance.
In Xanadu, Geddy also plays 12-string guitar! CRAZY!
My only regret in life is that I never got to see Rush live.
A comment from a musician from another band captures this.
“You look at Neal’s drum/percussion set up and you think ‘this is just for show, no way he uses all of that.’ Then he uses everything in the first 5 minutes.”
You could say the same thing about Alex and Geddy on those double neck rigs as well as Geddy’s synths for hands and feet.
Unbelievable.
as if I couldn't love this song any more, it's like hearing it all new again through her ears. God, I loved this, and smiled so much.
Everything RUSH does is masterful. Along the same lines of music styleas "Tom Sawyer", "Subdivisions" would be another buffet for a musician's ear palette
I agree - Subdivisions is one of my favorites.
Totally agree 💯 1of my all time favorites.
The word to go with "buffet" would be "Palate" to retain context.
"No, don't be over!" How freaking cute is that? You never cease to amaze me with the way you "listen" to peoples' voices as well as the instruments. Your analytical breakdown of the entire song is extraordinary! I get that you are a vocal coach and it's part of your job. But to do it with the overwhelming enthusiasm that you portray is not "NORMAL". IT'S EXTRAORDINARY! That's why WE (your fans) tune into your page. Keep being you, and we'll keep watching! LOVED YOUR BREAKDOWN OF THIS SONG!
Well said! My sentiments exactly!
Is Elizabeth a vocal coach? She’s an Opera singer that loves the voice and great musicianship.
@@jeffstumpf9129 No vocal coach can compare to the late great Ariel Burdett!
Please do their best song… Xanadu (LIVE). It’s longer and so satisfying! They each play like 50 instruments I swear and to watch it live shows their true mastery of their craft!
This
I know, you just never want it to end!! It never gets old. GREATEST rock band ever!!! R.i.p. Neil. Thank you Alex and Geddy!!
One of my favourite Rush songs is definitely "Natural Science" - so much goodness packed into 9 minutes!
Boom. Mic Drop.
IKR?
It's just epic live!
They produced such a big sound for just three guys it’s amazing listening to them
And the most amazing thing of all, they played all their stuff live, using keys, pedals, bass, double neck bass/12 strings double neck 6/12 string guitars. At some point 3 people play at least 12 instruments, often 3 each in one song. I saw them so many times I lost count. R.I.P. Neil.
For next Rush songs you can do Subdivisions, Red Barchetta, Time Stands Still (that one always makes me tear up) or Limelight. Such a great band musically and very Canadian. 🇨🇦 It always amazed me how just three guys could make such incredible music. Glad you are enjoying their music too!
I agree with your picks!
Red Barchetta is a great recommendation. Amazing musicianship and storytelling.
Yesss so much great music exit stage left is an incredible albuand who can forget Red Barchetta subdivisions and the Trees
They have a great vibe because they were/are (sadly, Neil has passed) the best of friends and tend to write songs with thoughtful lyrics. Also, all three people are/were wonderful human beings. Very down to earth, caring and compassionate.
Here's hoping that Neil is jamming with EVH since they both passed in 2020.
One of Rush's underrated songs, and one of Geddy's finest vocal performances is 'Available Light' from the album Presto. At this stage in the bands career, Geddy wanted to become more of a 'singer'. I feel you'd find the song interesting to analyze. Also, thank you for showing Rush some love. Seeing the joy you find in their music is a pleasure to watch. This is how we Rush fans have been feeling for many many ....many years! Cheers!
Presto is a SOLID album!
Love, love, LOVE Geddy's late 80's vocals! His best vocal years were '80 - '96 to me overall. Here's a few songs from HYF & Presto that I'd pick fwiw:
"Time Stand Still" Hold Your Fire (1987) Dare I say that Geddy's vocals are downright melodic here, & appropriately elegiac at points to match the lyrics.
"Lock and Key" Hold Your Fire An under appreciated gem; I think Geddy's vocals particular match the lyrics & tonal shifts of the song here.
"Mission" Hold Your Fire Absolutely one of Rush's most beautiful songs: musically, lyrically, & vocally.
"High Water" Hold Your Fire An odd song; almost a mix of rock & new age. I find, again, that Geddy's vocals particularly align with the music/lyrics.
"Show Don't Tell" Presto (1989) Another very catchy song; it's almost a rallying cry for evidence & reason based thinking over recklessness with the truth.
"The Pass" Presto Rush's anti-suicide song. Geddy's vocals are particularly tender, emotive. One of Rush's best!
"Presto" Presto The vocals are just fine, but what I really like is the perfect blend of acoustic & electric guitars & synths!
"Red Tide" Presto 30 years ago Rush was sounding the alarm on climate change. Great blend of piano into the music, & urgent vocals match lyrics.
"Available Light" Presto Just a beautiful song that, like other late 80's Rush songs, shows just how melodic Geddy's voice can be.
Some of my favorite vocals during that window are “ Hand Over Fist “, Ghost Of A Chance “, “Speed Of Love “, “Resist “, “ Open Secrets “. Geddy really mastered harmonies.
@@jabariparker2851 Yea, his vocals on Hold Your Fire and Presto I especially love; for me he just got better and better as the 80's went on, culminating in his melodic delivery on Hold Your Fire and Presto. I also love the vocals of Ghost of a Chance, Resist and Speed of Love after that period. I actually wrote a thread here (that I pulled the above picks from) about all of this, fwiw, in case you or anyone else might be interested: ua-cam.com/video/BZbzz47vjbk/v-deo.html&lc=UgxdEuscXFfxarSI3td4AaABAg
Not sure if that link works; (how do you link to a UA-cam comment?) here's the text:
Geddy is actually one of my 𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲 favorite vocalists. Here's some 𝑅𝓊𝓈𝒽 songs (all post 1980*) that I (fwiw as a 𝑅𝓊𝓈𝒽 nerd (⊡-⊡) ) would recommend:
𝐓𝐋;𝐃𝐑 top picks: Mission, Marathon, The Pass, Bravado, Animate, Faithless, The Garden.
𝐒𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐀𝐥𝐛𝐮𝐦/𝐘𝐞𝐚𝐫
"Countdown" Signals (1982) The urgency/excitement in Geddy's vocals I find matches the lyrics & tension of the song.
"New World Man" Signals I find a hint of warmth in Geddy's vocals that make this just such a "nice/friendly/upbeat" song...like so many of Rush's.
"Subdivisions" Signals The vocals are great, but this is simply one of the most infectious Rush songs ever.
"Red Sector A" Grace Under Pressure (1984) One of Rush's most dark, & powerful, songs. The vocals are appropriately weighty, serious in tone.
"Marathon" Power Windows (1985) One of my favorites; Geddy's vocals reach some "controlled highs" that match the "drive" of the lyrics/music.
"Territories" Power Windows Geddy has an almost spoken word part in the middle of the song; also Neil's drumming is particularly fantastic.
"Time Stand Still" Hold Your Fire (1987) Dare I say that Geddy's vocals are downright melodic here, & appropriately elegiac at points to match the lyrics.
"Lock and Key" Hold Your Fire An under appreciated gem; I think Geddy's vocals particular match the lyrics & tonal shifts of the song here.
"Mission" Hold Your Fire Absolutely one of Rush's most beautiful songs: musically, lyrically, & vocally.
"High Water" Hold Your Fire An odd song; almost a mix of rock & new age. I find, again, that Geddy's vocals particularly align with the music/lyrics.
"Show Don't Tell" Presto (1989) Another very catchy song; it's almost a rallying cry for evidence & reason based thinking over recklessness with the truth.
"The Pass" Presto Rush's anti-suicide song. Geddy's vocals are particularly tender, emotive. One of Rush's best!
"Presto" Presto The vocals are just fine, but what I really like is the perfect blend of acoustic & electric guitars & synths!
"Red Tide" Presto 30 years ago Rush was sounding the alarm on climate change. Great blend of piano into the music, & urgent vocals match lyrics.
"Available Light" Presto Just a beautiful song that, like other late 80's Rush songs, shows just how melodic Geddy's voice can be.
"Dreamline" Roll the Bones (1991) One of the most "popiest" songs Rush ever created. Geddy's vocals match the speed/urgency of the music.
"Bravado" Roll the Bones One of Geddy's best vocal performances; a very emotional song that always sends shivers down my spine.
"Roll the Bones" Roll the Bones Another of Rush's almost "pop" hits; great lyrics with a memorable chorus...& even a rap section!
"Ghost of a Chance" Roll the Bones One of the most realistic love songs ever penned. A deeply melodic song with remarkable depth of vocal delivery.
"Animate" Counterparts (1993) Incredible song: great bass line, drums, nice atmosphere & vocal variations...all matched to a driving, almost elemental rhythm.
"Stick it Out" Counterparts Another "hit" song, at least for Rush; a very heavy & driving song with upfront vocals, per most songs on the album.
"Double Agent" Counterparts Wild & interesting song; has almost "evil Geddy" sections where he sings in a very up close & almost menacing way.
"Half the World" Test For Echo (1996) Popish song; pretty melodic vocals from Geddy.
**Feedback** (2004) This whole album is Rush covering classic rock songs that influenced them; Geddy's vocals pair well with all of them, which is something that I did not expect would be the case before it came out.
"Far Cry" Snakes & Arrows (2007) Very good later era minor hit for Rush; Geddy's vocals have continued to mature nicely.
"The Larger Bowl" Snakes & Arrows Much of this song is Geddy's voice & acoustic guitar; lyrically one of their simplest, & best.
"Faithless" Snakes & Arrows Very interestingly structured song; some almost plaintive vocals.
**Clockwork Angels** (2012)
Rush's final album, & one of their very best (in many ways it is their best: it is their most developed, mature, & realized version of Rush). A very complex, deep, ambitious (even for Rush), powerful monster of an album, it truly takes several close listens to really get some grasp of (it didn't really "click" for me completely until about 10 good listens).
Every song is a classic, but as for vocals I'd pick out 3 tracks: "Halo Effect", "Headlong Flight", & the absolutely heart wrenching grand finale to the album & their long, epic career: the elegiac & truly philosophical "The Garden". The guitar solo alone reduces me to tears EVERY SINGLE TIME.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I hope someone finds this list useful in some way! Let me know if you have any questions or recs for my favorite versions of these songs (some would be studio, some live when available). Rush on!
*All of my picks are post 1980 because that's when Geddy decided to sing in a lower register and it really helped his delivery in my view.
Also, many others will chime in with 70's Rush song recommendations, so I decided to highlight songs mostly from my favorite Rush era: 1980 - 1991.
My favorite Geddy vocal era is '84 to '93, & I like the '96 to '12 era a lot too. I think his voice matured well, & he took care to develop more subtlety & variations in his vocals, which especially is evident on Rush's late 80's albums.
Finally, as Elizabeth already listened to "The Spirit of Radio", she knows about Permanent Waves; same with "Tom Sawyer" & Moving Pictures, so no need to really recommend tracks from those albums (& others will anyway).
Btw, I've listened to Rush, by far my favorite band, for over 30 years now, since I was 14 right around when Roll the Bones came out (& yes, that album as well as Counterparts were popular in my high school!). I have seen them on every tour, every leg, from '94 to '15 (over 10 times). They are a huge reason why I enjoy life at the level I've been (so far) lucky to!
Available Light is surely a great and underrated song, one of my all time favourites from that era, with fantastic lyrics as usual.
One of the best quotes from the band is that "they take the music seriously, but they don't take themselves seriously". Kind of the attitude that the music displays. Tom Sawyer is really a non-typical rock song in many ways, song structure is really unique.
Omg. "No, don't be over". This is everything.
Three of the world's best musicians and one of the best drummers ever. R.I.P Neil Peart, sadly missed.
Rush is probably one of the absolute best bands to ever exist on how perfectly they change time signatures - they are so smooth and seamless, and they do them multiple times in each song. Please please please review Xanadu? It's also really long!
Live from Exit Stage left.
Yes. Xanadu. Live from Exit Stage Left.
Xanadu is my favorite Rush song, I always say "they create a soundscape that leads you into Xanadu." One of the many I ask people to listen to as one of their first.
Edit: That's an oxymoron. Oh well.
Xanadu is the quintessential Rush track. A musical poem played by a three man orchestra.
100% Xanadu
Next song for you: “Closer To The Heart”. Great lyrics and great Melody. You’ll get a good taste of Geddy’s upper register too. You also have commented about how smoothly Rush flows between changing time signatures without really feeing it. For a great example of this, “Limelight” is a must! Lots of changes you will barely notice! After the guitar solo, you’ll be shocked to hear Neil playing in 4/4 while the chordal arrangement (guitar, bass and vocals) are in 3/4. Polyrhythm! Great melody and lyrics as well. You’ll really love this song! It’s a favorite of Rush fans for sure. Also one of Alex’s best guitar solos (some say his best).
Also a great message, I think she'd enjoy Closer to the Heart
Make sure it's one of the live versions.
I would add Fly by Night
@@corystratton5397 a sensible suggestion, nice choice. I'm not so sure about these other people's suggestions.
Great lyrics, awe inspiring vocals, but can we get real on that Melody for "Closer to the Heart." It is completely smacked together for the dreaded radio music industry IMO. "Oh, But wait, Jake its nice sounding, and even though it has a very revolution is the resolution message it makes everyone feel so nostalgic. Hmmm?? And insert extremely long awkward pause. I believe they farted this out to silence the sniveling of the PR rep for a record label) It's undeniably not the song that I feel represents their sound. Maybe I am wrong but I feel like there's a reason it doesn't come close to the sound of any other one of their songs. Is it too offensive to suggest that she listens to "A Passage to Bangkok" to hear the wonderment of the high register of Ged's vocals?
Not only the music has seamless time changes with excellent musicianship, but Gettys voice is so unstable and unique. He put so much soul into the lyrics.. All the players do. They don’t seem to care anybody thinks her says they do it their way. Their message always gives you something to rethink about. The words of music have changed peoples lives. Sincerity is so evident Please do more Rush analysis. There’s no other Band like rush.
Rush is some of Canada’s favourite sons. All extremely talented. Rest In Peace Professor you are still loved and greatly missed.
Rush is good at "slight of ear", they distract you from the time changes so they aren't so jarring and just make everything flow together. Just Brilliant.
Rush Songs - To react to by length of song. Tom Sayer was 4:38
Subdivisions 5:38
Freewill 5:24
Limelight. 4:20
Fly By Night 3:22
Closer to the Heart 2:56
The best hands down Reaction to Rush on UA-cam. I feel like I’m listening to it the first time again
I don't know which I enjoyed more: the song or her reactions to the song. Totally enjoyed this video.
Rush is truly one of the all-time great bands. To me the most amazing thing about these three guys is that Geddy and Alex met in 5th grade going to the same elementary school in Canada, started playing music together in grade school, then added the final piece in Neil in 1974 when they were all still in HS to form this fantastic 3-piece band whom so many have enjoyed ever since. When you read about them or watch videos of the 3 together they really were the best of friends and never let their egos and success get in the way of their friendship or their family lives with their wives and kids. They went on an incredible journey and had a very special lasting friendship doing what all three loved together until the end when Neil couldn't physically play anymore. The same 3 guys as Rush making music for over 4 decades together...very, very rare indeed.
Well, there was John Rutsey, whom they met in HS and played on their debut album. Neil came on board on their second album, Fly By Night.
Alex and Geddy met in 7th grade, and they dropped out of high school and formed Rush with John Rutsey. Rutsey played on the first album, and Peart joined only after the band signed to an American label (the first album was an indie release)
You mean like this :
ua-cam.com/video/qmb6Kyb7eoE/v-deo.html
John had to drop out from Rush before their tour for their first album, he had diabetes and it would have been hell on him touring. Lol, they (Rush’s managers) approached Neil at his father’s farming equipment supply store in St. Catharines Ontario. Neil auditioned for Alex and Geddy and the rest was history. Before Rutsey left Rush, they performed at Laura Secord Secondary school here in St. Catharines, the video is somewhere on UA-cam.
If you would like something longer I would suggest you watch the" Xanadu" live from Exit Stage Left, masterpiece! Also "Limelight" off the Moving Pictures album ( The same album Tom sawyer is on ), it's basically Neil Peart writing about his struggle with fame.
I second both Xanadu and Limelight!
I would say the two most overlooked, but extremely strong vocals speaking tracks would be "The Trees" and "Closer To The Heart".
Yes, to both. Particularly in "The Trees", I think Geddy displays more of his range than in anything else. It's beautiful, and scary...
overlooked, what about Losing It?
The Trees is such a banger
Yes and they are back to back as basically one track on two live albums.