Geddy’s voice is on point in this song and I love where the lyrics take me. This entire album is great. Not a bad song on it. Tom Sawyer certainly has its place in the pantheon of prog/rock, but the star of this album is Witch Hunt, and especially the lyrics which still resonate today.
I highly recommend you listen to the live version of Xanadu from Exit Stage Left. It's one of the most exciting and perfect live rock performances of all time, by any band of any genre.
Watch the live version from their last tour, R40. The Exit….Stage Left version is good but the song sounds better and is more developed 30 years down the road. IMHO
I love the entire song but the solo at 10:20 stands out!! How does Alex even conceive the part at 10:43?? the most unique few bars in history! It brings tears to my eyes.
Great reaction! They did bring "Camera Eye" (CE) back to be featured on the Time Machine Tour, from 2010. On that tour, they played "Moving Pictures" album in it's entirety and CE was definitely a high-point of that, especially since it was not a song that was played much, past 1982/83. Plus, Rush decided to edit the song a bit, cutting out some extended parts to hone it into a tighter arrangement. It is a great song live and I love Neil's drum work through out this song...very tight, aggressive and melodic!
God dang, what a band- in the true meaning of the word. Quite likely, with only 3 members, Rush is pound for pound the most talented pure rock band of all time.
You mention this song is close to perfect. That describes this album. This album flows, and while the songs all complement each other, each song stands by itself very well. I mean, starting off with a rock classic like Tom Sawyer, the album needs to have a lot of great songs to keep up your interest and excitement. And the album does. And this song? Love it! I think it starts out a bit slow, but then it gets into that groove with that bass just doing things you don't expect, and it's an absolute joy to listen to.
This was phenomenal live! This is hands down one of the best songs they've ever written. It's pretty amazing in itself that there really is not a bad track on moving pictures at all. That entire album is just unbelievable. It's amazing the amount of talent that oozes out of these three guys. Sounds like you haven't dug too deep. You should get out your shovel. You got a lot of really great music to digest. Things really changed after this album. And I think all for the good. I think all of their eras were so interesting and for this listener it always takes multiple listens for me to really fully understand where they were going. You simply can't judge one of their songs off of one listen. That's the beauty of them. They're so incredibly unique and once you really dissect their work your mind is even more blown. Welcome to the rabbit hole
I'm glad this one appealed to you. The keyboard sound may not age as well as others and this was the beginning of its greater prominence in Rush songs, much to the chagrin of Alex. But still a great album.
I finally got to see this live at their R30 tour when they played the almost flawless album Moving Pictures show start to finish. At Red Rocks. As close to perfection as you can get. And yet...the immortal gods looking down from Olympus actually made a flub in the middle of the song! I chuckled and reminded myself that sometimes even gods make mistakes! The production quality and song writing is unmatched. I’m glad you enjoyed it...playlist? 🙂
Yes! I remember being so excited when I heard Rush was playing Moving Pictures album on that tour. The venue was also outdoors on the grass in The Woodlands, Tx. Never forget that night!
I saw them on the time machine tour in new Orleans. They played the whole album in its entirety. This was my favorite song of the show. The whole stadium just got lost in the song. It was amazing.
Great song from Moving Pictures! I love how the song flows through all the different musical parts. Lyrically, it is also very interesting. Very cool reaction!!
Wow, you said what I was about to write Justin. This song is the perfect RUSH song. It has everything you want from them . My favorite from this album and every song on it is very good. Thank you.
Great reaction, once again! I'm constantly getting into more and more new music over the years but Rush is consistently one of my most played band. I would say the same for dream Theater too. For some Rush deep cuts, I think you'd enjoy: Middletown Dreams, Test For Echo, The Main Monkey Business, Leave That Thing Alone (live in Rio) and the Necromancer (epic). Until next time...
I would have to agree with your list, it seems all the reaction videos show the same songs, and Rush is more than Tom Sawyer and Xanadu, not that those are bad songs, but I love Middletown Dreams, one of my top Rush songs.
This was a very good review of one of my fav songs by one of my fav bands. I especially love the lyrics since I finally made a trip to Manhattan. Great Lyrics Mr. Peart
Great reaction and thoughtful break down of this song Justin! I really like your smart but chill vibe dude!. This is one of my favorite Rush songs and I knew you would appreciate it!!
A couple of years ago when my son and I were going to New York to see the US Open, I put this on as we entered the tunnel into New York. The intro ended as we exited the tunnel and stared at the skyline above us. Good memory. Love the feel of this song. Never been to London, but it really evokes the feeling of the energy you feel in a big city like NYC.
Hey, thanks for the reaction, you need to see them do this tune live to really appreciate they're ability, from time machine, or ANY from exit stage left, especially xanadu or La Vila Strangiato. Your honesty on ALL material from genesis, Floyd etc.... is refreshing and interesting, thnx
Permanent Waves deserves some love. For me it's the peak of early Rush and the culmination of everything they've done and learned up to that point. Excellent songs, production and trimming the fat/self editing. Stand outs being Free Will and Natural Science. Later Rush albums become more keyboard intensive and new wavey (but still good).
I love Permanent Waves. I always compare Moving Pictures and Permanent Waves to each other and I think PW is a bit better. Not as many Radio Hits as MP, but more deep, emotional lyrics. Especially Natural Science. That may be one of my favorite Rush songs.
This is the last of Rush's real extended pieces. And after all these years of extended listening it has become my favorite. It's nice that you picked up on Peart's playfulness. A characteristic of his playing which is usually lost in his hyperkinetic style, is his tendency to play verses differently from one to another. This he does purposefully, and it brings an incalculable dynamic to the music. The sections that automatically made you smile (....They seem oblivious...Are they oblivious...) represent the more reflective sections of the lyric. The observer, through his viewfinder, notices things that his subjects can not pay attention to as they hurry through their lives (NYC) or notice because they are part of centuries old scenery (London). This introspection necessitates a change in rhythm, and the band provides it. Peart (pronounced Pee-Art, btw) who spent a painful and lonely, but meaningful period of his life in London (chronicled pretty nicely in the song "Circumstances") provided lyrics that the other two guys could set music to appropriately. This is really good songwriting.
Yeah, I knew you’d like it JP 😎 As I mentioned previously, it’s time to journey back to Rush’s sci-fi past and react to Books I & II of “Hemispheres”. The spaceship ‘Rocinante’ awaits! 🚀
That main riff you talked about to me always felt like a bird's eye view flying over city he was about to sing about, taking in the feel of the city. I also love the drum transition between the New York and London sections, the drums are front and center for New York but move to the background for London.
By the way thank you so much for your videos and reactions. I really appreciate the way you thoughtfully listen to, and describe your interpretation of, those songs. My three favorites are very difficult to isolate, but, in no particular order: -Van Halen (Roth era) -Rush -Kiss/Styx (tie)
Ahh, back onto some more familiar Prog ground after being educated on several bands I've never heard of!😆 That's no bad thing by the way! I have a few friends who are big Rush fans and they've tried their best to get me into them; but as much as I enjoy some of the music, I confess I really struggle with Geddy Lee's voice. I just plain don't like it. I'm still open to being convinced though. While on the subject of Prog, if there's one band I would recommend reacting to (although I guess you must have a list as long as your arm by now), I'd have to say check out Mostly Autumn. They've been plugging away for years. Great music. Kind of Pink Floyd with huge Celtic and Folk influences. Their White Rainbow album is my favourite bit of music from 2019. Check out the track 'Western Skies' or 'Viking Funeral'. Every song is brilliant on White Rainbow though.👍
I’ve never liked Geddy Lee’s voice either. It’s the same issue I have with most prog singers from the 70s. Peter Gabriel I liked because he had some soul in his voice and a very unique tone however even he sang too high and fairy like on some of the early Genesis tunes. Nursery Cryme I think is the worst culprit of this. But then he sounds great on The Lamb pretty much throughout.
I felt the same about Geddy's vocals for a long time. My brothers felt the same and that made it difficult to accept his vocals, but musicianship was absolutely remarkable. It grew on me and now I appreciate his vocals. There alot of singers out there that are terrible singers, but are very important and talented. I enjoyed your comment.
Geddy's bass in this song is soooooo amazing. During Alex's solo half the time I listen to Alex half the time im listening to geddy's bass under the guitar solo. And.... what can I say about neil.
First song I ever learned on drums, kiss Dr Love . Second song: rush 2112 side one.changed my musical life forever Hemisphere’s favorite album of all time Geddy plays keyboard and Taurus pedals live as well
Hi JP! Great reaction and as a huge fan I have to agree that there was something about the beginning synth that didn't always sit well with me and I would skip this song in the beginning. I returned to it and it is another Rush song that gets better with each listen and I love the solo and Geddy's bass under there and what he is doing
It's awesome that you got into this song so fast. At first I was kind of underwhelmed by it. My main criticism of it ,like you, is the intro and synth sound which don't do much for me. But once the song kicks into high gear it's awesome especially the solo from lifeson, it's one of his best. Rush is in my top 5 bands! You gotta check out hemispheres, one of the perfect albums in rock history
Woohoo! More Rush! I'm with you on this being damn near close to perfection. To such a point that Rush only played this in full on two tours: the Moving Pictures Tour in '81, and the Time Machine Tour in 2010/11...despite numerous fan petitions begging for it to be played. When I heard the synth intro in 2010 I was immediately pumped beyond belief. Their constant ability to turn their sound on a dime is incredible. Your face when they went back to the synths between the New York/London verses was GOLD. It brought a massive grin to my face. There's very few Rush songs that you might not enjoy, and I'm so excited to see which song you go to from here. Outside of my suggestion to do Counterparts in full, I would honestly love it if you listened to Force Ten or Ghost of a Chance.
Great analysis. I love this song and this album. I like all their phases though so I may be biased. Lol. I find Rush likes to play around and try different things. Sometimes it works better than others but they’re always trying and expanding their sound. Phenomenal live. I recommend trying a few live songs unless I missed them earlier from you. They are just as good live as recorded. Thanks again for another reaction.
Riffs! Reflection? Rolls!! Refinement... Resplendent Rush Cue: response!(Now listening to you) Yes pumped up for the riffs👍 And the drum rolls The slow sparse build up was really powerful back in the day (pre 2:45 in ‘81) You smiler U!😆😁 Soft spring rain i love that too ! 🌸👍pretty amazing Lyrics : angular city Life That’s good how you interpret and disect them... are they oblivious A beauty overlooked? They RUSH around too much 🍰💰💰 Very special indeed. I’m glad time has been good to the synths in your head. ♥️🗜 As a 16year old this song made me cry and it also rocked But Geddy was right; It’s still beautiful.
Classic song from an awesome album and I pretty much agree with your observations here. As a die hard Rush fan I find this particular song a little dated now. The broken concept - stop/start of pacing really harks back to their old sprawling concept pieces and this almost seems like a final stab at a long, concept track, before resigning them to yesteryear, in favour of shorter, snappier, accessible tracks for all future albums. I almost see this track as a final swan song for their prog-rock heritage.
I really love this song but in a really different way. It feels subdued compared to many other Rush songs. And yet, there's an energy hidden within it that cannot be denied. The riffs are simple, but quality. The build-up is so subtle that you almost don't notice it, but by the end it's got incredible power. I think the best way to describe this song is by the lyrical subject. It's just a mundane walk through a city, but by that walk you begin to understand something deeper about the place you're in, and ultimately about humanity as a whole. You don't know where it came from, but it's there and it's undeniable. It's beautiful, powerful, but subtle, songwriting and poetry. On a different topic, since we talked about it before, I am putting a formal request in to have you listen to some Maudlin of the Well. I highly recommend the song "Heaven And Weak"--that sums up everything they have going on in a single track. Other stand-outs are "They Aren't All Beautiful" and "Girl With a Watering Can." I also recommend "The Ferryman," although that song requires you to listen to the tracks before and after to get the full context. (Of course, the best thing to do would be a full album listen of "Bath" but that's probably a bit much to ask. If you're up for it, though, ...)
Ben, lets talk about maudlin! So, a week or two ago I was exploring some music on my own time (I know, I do that sometimes!), and came across Kayo Dot "Choirs of the Eye" with the song The Manifold Curiosity. Looked interesting, and the band name sounded familiar, so I hit play. DUDE. One of the best songs I've heard in a long time. So, I'm actually currently listening to the rest of Choirs on my own, as well as Bath. Sorry if I spoiled it since I've been listening to it off-camera, but man...I'm so glad I've found em.
@@JustJP Very cool! I'm happy that you are listening to them. I would've loved a reaction but probably no one else would. 😊 They're so obscure. I know you like Kayo Dot. What do you think about Bath so far? It sucks, doesn't it? 😀
If my memory serves me, around this time they spoke about the impact the band The Police had on them. Please react to "Limelight" - live version from Exit Stage Left 1981. It shows the band in its prime, playing a trademark song.
All the songs on Moving Pictures are beautifully mastered and though other toons smack you in the face with how great they are, for me, this is the one that grew on me over time until it eventually became my favorite from the album. Interestingly enough, This is my kids favorite Rush tune as well. Not exactly sure what that says aside from that they have great taste and I have not completely failed them as a Father :-)
Credit to you. This is a somewhat difficult song to enjoy on first listen. Although I appreciated it on my first listen, it took me 2-3 listens to start fully enjoying this song. I agree, this is pretty much the perfect song. The lyrics is beautiful as well. Can you do some more RUSH songs please.
Check out "Anthem" from their first album. Much grittier and in your face. Quite a gem. And, believe it or not, it is off their first album- the only one NOT featuring Peart on drums. John Rutsey, though, is no failure by a longshot. A very good player in his limited time with RUSH. Even if you don't review it, watch the vid. It's only 4 min and will make you respect Alex Lifeson yet more.
This song could be seen as a bridge to later 80s production. As part of Moving Pictures its great, adds to the whole. BUT, as you noticed (kudos for that, and I mean it), synths are very much present, and the earlier Rush tightness is a little missing. I see this as a brigde to next Rush period, 80s, starting with Signals. Signals is great album, but Rush is no longer same progressive ROCK band. More poppy, perhaps more matured, perhaps a little less interesting. Great reaction, as allways. I would love to hear more Rush reactions from you, but only if you enjoy it 😊. Quite a few fans consider period after live album All The Worlds a Stage and before live Exit Stage Left their peak. That is 4 studio albums. For me, peaks peak is ESL. Pure magic. At this period the tools that Rush have are so sharp, they are kind of bragging all the way. I love it, the way confidence shines through.
Great reaction to a great song from a great album. Back in the day, I really loved the intro to this song. Maybe it was the era, but I thought it was fantastic. Today, I agree I sorta get that move along feel during the intro. This song along with Witch Hunt was like candy for me, just couldn't get enough of it when the album came out. Justin in reference to Peart changing up the groove slightly listen to the songs "Scars". I just love how he keeps adjusting the groove. Justin remember there was a song (can't remember the song) you reacted to and I stated your reaction described The Camera Eye. What was the name of the song? Comparatively were the reactions close?
I believe you first referenced this song regarding Clientele- Reflections After Jane. And yes, the thematic elements behind the city idea were near identical!
@@JustJP I just rewatched your reaction and you mentioned, you think this is the best Rush song you've heard thus far. I was wondering if you ever watched the Xanadu Ext stage Left live version. I know you know Rush is a world class band but seeing is believing. Here's the link: ua-cam.com/video/VuHS-gjMiVw/v-deo.html
This is the song that made me fall in love with Rush and Prog. I'd never heard nothing like it. The synth sounds from the beginning caught my attention immediately, I was confused by how they would even performed them. I loved the riffs, and the melody. I also noticed how Geddy tries to fit Peart's words and they end up sounding not entirely "naturally placed" within the time signatures etc, but it amazed me. And the guitar solo is just awesome. And the bass is incredible throughout but specially during the solo, I became obsessed to this day with that bass tone and if you think about it it's almost as if you couldn't decide which of them is soloing in that section. Not to mention the drums, specially the fills in the intro build up. Next for you should be one of these: Fly by night, The Necromancer, 2112, A farewell to kings, The spirit of radio... (I'm not sure if you've already listened to some of them). We usually recommend the most epic and well known songs, but you should seriously consider listening to full albums of these bands like you've done with Genesis (Rush, Yes...) they're just too good to be missed. Enjoy
Have you ever heard of a UK band called Audience? Their album "The House On The Hill" is a masterpiece! I recommend the first song "Jackdaw". The entire album is pure gold.
I knew you would love this one. You should check out Witch Hunt from the same album, Moving Pictures. Very atmospheric, and the lyrics mean as much today as much as they did back in 1981.
@@jaybird4093 For me my favorites in order is: The Weapon, Witch Hunt, The Enemy Within and Freeze. Lyrically for me The Weapon and Witch Hunt hits home most for me. Oddly the order in which the songs came out don't match the album debut order. Which tells me all 4 songs themes were planned well before the songs were written. Or the songs were written well before the album was released and just released in a different order . Witch Hunt - part 3 - Moving Pictures The Weapon - part 2 - Signals The Enemy Within - part 1 - Grace Under Pressure Freeze - part 4 - Vapor Trails
Oh, yes! A lot of Rush is never enough! I don't like this song very much, because it takes a lot of time to take off, and it gets a little repetitive. It has always made me miss "Red Barchetta", the second longest track on the album, which does kinda the same thing, but more spot on. Things like this have generally made Rush's next album, "Signals", seem much more solid and enjoyable to me, because I don't find weak moments in "Signals", as I do in "Moving Pictures". But, of course, I am not saying that "Moving Pictures" is bad; nothing could be further from both my opinion and reality.
I am not a huge fan of this song either and though I respect those that love it, this song is the weak one on a super Moving Pictures album for myself. It just doesn't grab me too much. It's like part A New York Part B London but the same song. I understand the repetitive aspect you talk of. My ears feel the same for this one as you
New to your channel, great stuff, I like your perspective and delivery!! Rush is a fantastic band and has been my favorite for 4 decades. Check out Losing it on Signals if you haven't already, the lyrics are just amazing!!
2112 is life changing, for some people. Like me. It is the reason I'm a musician. You have to listen to the whole song, though, which is over 20 minutes long. Don't worry, it is time well spent!
I’m just wondering why you don’t react to the live versions of Rush songs? They are so much better in concert than on album and are best experienced on the lighted stage.
I’d have to respectfully disagree. The first couple minutes is what hooked me on this song. Love the synths. Simplistic yet in your face. Then again, I’m a synth musician so there’s some bias. =]
I love every second of this song! ❤️🤘
😁
Fantastic. Awesome. Brilliant.
First heard the song on a tape in 1984. Changed my whole prospective.
One of their mightiest tracks. Might be my favorite of theirs among many.
Geddy’s voice is on point in this song and I love where the lyrics take me.
This entire album is great. Not a bad song on it. Tom Sawyer certainly has its place in the pantheon of prog/rock, but the star of this album is Witch Hunt, and especially the lyrics which still resonate today.
My favorite rush song. Used to loop this on repeat while finishing grad school papers
Yessss! I love the whole second size of Moving Pictures!
I highly recommend you listen to the live version of Xanadu from Exit Stage Left. It's one of the most exciting and perfect live rock performances of all time, by any band of any genre.
WarrenCromartie2 especially when you’re watching them play it too👀
Yes, gotta watch it.
Yes on Xanadu read up on the lyrics first
I second this.
Watch the live version from their last tour, R40. The Exit….Stage Left version is good but the song sounds better and is more developed 30 years down the road. IMHO
one of their best songs ever!!
One of the best displays of Geddy's bass playing, and the roar of that Rick. There is so much great in this song, but that always stands out for me.
One of the greatest recorded bass guitar tones ever.
❤
I love the entire song but the solo at 10:20 stands out!! How does Alex even conceive the part at 10:43?? the most unique few bars in history! It brings tears to my eyes.
Great reaction! They did bring "Camera Eye" (CE) back to be featured on the Time Machine Tour, from 2010. On that tour, they played "Moving Pictures" album in it's entirety and CE was definitely a high-point of that, especially since it was not a song that was played much, past 1982/83. Plus, Rush decided to edit the song a bit, cutting out some extended parts to hone it into a tighter arrangement. It is a great song live and I love Neil's drum work through out this song...very tight, aggressive and melodic!
God dang, what a band- in the true meaning of the word. Quite likely, with only 3 members, Rush is pound for pound the most talented pure rock band of all time.
Totally agreed!
You mention this song is close to perfect. That describes this album. This album flows, and while the songs all complement each other, each song stands by itself very well. I mean, starting off with a rock classic like Tom Sawyer, the album needs to have a lot of great songs to keep up your interest and excitement. And the album does. And this song? Love it! I think it starts out a bit slow, but then it gets into that groove with that bass just doing things you don't expect, and it's an absolute joy to listen to.
This was phenomenal live! This is hands down one of the best songs they've ever written. It's pretty amazing in itself that there really is not a bad track on moving pictures at all. That entire album is just unbelievable. It's amazing the amount of talent that oozes out of these three guys. Sounds like you haven't dug too deep. You should get out your shovel. You got a lot of really great music to digest. Things really changed after this album. And I think all for the good. I think all of their eras were so interesting and for this listener it always takes multiple listens for me to really fully understand where they were going. You simply can't judge one of their songs off of one listen. That's the beauty of them. They're so incredibly unique and once you really dissect their work your mind is even more blown. Welcome to the rabbit hole
Yeah more prog rock! This my favorite track on moving pictures. Probably because it didn't get played to death on the radio
I was stationed in Germany when I first heard this album. Listening to anything off it always brings me right back to that time. Thank you.
I love when a song takes you back to a certain place. Ty Kuhn
I'm glad this one appealed to you. The keyboard sound may not age as well as others and this was the beginning of its greater prominence in Rush songs, much to the chagrin of Alex. But still a great album.
I finally got to see this live at their R30 tour when they played the almost flawless album Moving Pictures show start to finish. At Red Rocks. As close to perfection as you can get. And yet...the immortal gods looking down from Olympus actually made a flub in the middle of the song! I chuckled and reminded myself that sometimes even gods make mistakes! The production quality and song writing is unmatched. I’m glad you enjoyed it...playlist? 🙂
Yes! I remember being so excited when I heard Rush was playing Moving Pictures album on that tour. The venue was also outdoors on the grass in The Woodlands, Tx. Never forget that night!
This is 1 of my favorite 80's tunes!!!!
K.A.!!!
Rush - Marathon
JP has already done Marathon
:)
Best song ever..!
I saw them on the time machine tour in new Orleans. They played the whole album in its entirety. This was my favorite song of the show. The whole stadium just got lost in the song. It was amazing.
As always thoughtful and deep reaction. Thank you.
Thank you Rob
Yes, totally agree, one of my favourite songs by Rush
A good lyrical breakdown Justin. What about that bass/guitar solo spot ? Just incredible.
Great song from Moving Pictures! I love how the song flows through all the different musical parts. Lyrically, it is also very interesting. Very cool reaction!!
One of my favorite Rush songs!
Such a majestic song! I saw them do this live! It moves me to the point where I need to stand up and cheer them on!
Watched this live back in 1981. This song does not get enough play time. Love it!
Great upload!!
The Camera Eye sounds so good on stereo ~ Xanadu live (1981 Exit Stage Left) is another gem!
ty ty
Wow, you said what I was about to write Justin. This song is the perfect RUSH song. It has everything you want from them . My favorite from this album and every song on it is very good. Thank you.
Great rush song.it is one of their greatest.
Incredible album and yes their music just makes you smile. Master storytellers
great song and my personal favourite Rush album, really stands the test of time
Great reaction, once again! I'm constantly getting into more and more new music over the years but Rush is consistently one of my most played band. I would say the same for dream Theater too. For some Rush deep cuts, I think you'd enjoy: Middletown Dreams, Test For Echo, The Main Monkey Business, Leave That Thing Alone (live in Rio) and the Necromancer (epic).
Until next time...
Thanks Quint!
I would have to agree with your list, it seems all the reaction videos show the same songs, and Rush is more than Tom Sawyer and Xanadu, not that those are bad songs, but I love Middletown Dreams, one of my top Rush songs.
Yes, thank you,@@michaelakkerman407 . I agree. The deepcuts need some love too.
the necromancer and the fountain of lamneth 2 very early and deep tracks by rush
Every song on this album is a stunner But one you may not have heard that is a must is Vital Signs
Epic...let's see...other Rush suggestions...ummm...anything!
🤭ty!
This song reminds me of that time after high school just got married and i loved this record good times
This was a very good review of one of my fav songs by one of my fav bands. I especially love the lyrics since I finally made a trip to Manhattan. Great Lyrics Mr. Peart
Glad you appreciate RUSH!
Great reaction and thoughtful break down of this song Justin! I really like your smart but chill vibe dude!. This is one of my favorite Rush songs and I knew you would appreciate it!!
Appreciate it Rick!
Love this song. Hard to find a Rush song I don't love.
Ha, I hear ya
This is a country road driving song par excellence 🙂
Driving from the country towards the city, the skyscrapers on the horizon 😊
A couple of years ago when my son and I were going to New York to see the US Open, I put this on as we entered the tunnel into New York. The intro ended as we exited the tunnel and stared at the skyline above us. Good memory. Love the feel of this song. Never been to London, but it really evokes the feeling of the energy you feel in a big city like NYC.
Thats a perfect moment
Yes only 3 musicians... wonderfull music amazin lyrics... epic group who will stay in decades after a lot of any other group
In our mind and soul
Nice analisis
Hey, thanks for the reaction, you need to see them do this tune live to really appreciate they're ability, from time machine, or ANY from exit stage left, especially xanadu or La Vila Strangiato. Your honesty on ALL material from genesis, Floyd etc.... is refreshing and interesting, thnx
Thank you Paul!
Permanent Waves deserves some love. For me it's the peak of early Rush and the culmination of everything they've done and learned up to that point. Excellent songs, production and trimming the fat/self editing. Stand outs being Free Will and Natural Science. Later Rush albums become more keyboard intensive and new wavey (but still good).
I love Permanent Waves. I always compare Moving Pictures and Permanent Waves to each other and I think PW is a bit better. Not as many Radio Hits as MP, but more deep, emotional lyrics. Especially Natural Science. That may be one of my favorite Rush songs.
Chris Tolson Agreed. To me, MP has 4 great songs and 3 good ones. PW, imo, has 6 great songs.
Great song, repetitvely so :))))))
This is the last of Rush's real extended pieces. And after all these years of extended listening it has become my favorite. It's nice that you picked up on Peart's playfulness. A characteristic of his playing which is usually lost in his hyperkinetic style, is his tendency to play verses differently from one to another. This he does purposefully, and it brings an incalculable dynamic to the music.
The sections that automatically made you smile (....They seem oblivious...Are they oblivious...) represent the more reflective sections of the lyric. The observer, through his viewfinder, notices things that his subjects can not pay attention to as they hurry through their lives (NYC) or notice because they are part of centuries old scenery (London). This introspection necessitates a change in rhythm, and the band provides it.
Peart (pronounced Pee-Art, btw) who spent a painful and lonely, but meaningful period of his life in London (chronicled pretty nicely in the song "Circumstances") provided lyrics that the other two guys could set music to appropriately. This is really good songwriting.
Ty Aza. I love his playfulness on the drums, always makes it interesting to listen to.
Yeah, I knew you’d like it JP 😎
As I mentioned previously, it’s time to journey back to Rush’s sci-fi past and react to Books I & II of “Hemispheres”. The spaceship ‘Rocinante’ awaits! 🚀
AGREED!
That main riff you talked about to me always felt like a bird's eye view flying over city he was about to sing about, taking in the feel of the city. I also love the drum transition between the New York and London sections, the drums are front and center for New York but move to the background for London.
Love the visual Mark!
Red barchetta is one of my favourites by rush, worth checking out for sure
Red Barchetta may very well be the best song on the album.
halcyon289 Agreed. I love the lyrics! Great cruising music.
Perhaps not THE best, but definitely has aged the best, along with YYZ
I've heard that one actually :) Ty tho!
By the way thank you so much for your videos and reactions. I really
appreciate the way you thoughtfully listen to, and describe your interpretation of, those songs.
My three favorites are very difficult to isolate, but, in no particular order:
-Van Halen (Roth era)
-Rush
-Kiss/Styx (tie)
Appreciate that Joe, thank YOU so much for enjoying it; keeps me going🙃
Ahh, back onto some more familiar Prog ground after being educated on several bands I've never heard of!😆 That's no bad thing by the way!
I have a few friends who are big Rush fans and they've tried their best to get me into them; but as much as I enjoy some of the music, I confess I really struggle with Geddy Lee's voice. I just plain don't like it. I'm still open to being convinced though.
While on the subject of Prog, if there's one band I would recommend reacting to (although I guess you must have a list as long as your arm by now), I'd have to say check out Mostly Autumn. They've been plugging away for years. Great music. Kind of Pink Floyd with huge Celtic and Folk influences. Their White Rainbow album is my favourite bit of music from 2019. Check out the track 'Western Skies' or 'Viking Funeral'. Every song is brilliant on White Rainbow though.👍
I’ve never liked Geddy Lee’s voice either. It’s the same issue I have with most prog singers from the 70s. Peter Gabriel I liked because he had some soul in his voice and a very unique tone however even he sang too high and fairy like on some of the early Genesis tunes. Nursery Cryme I think is the worst culprit of this. But then he sounds great on The Lamb pretty much throughout.
Appreciate the rec Carter!
I felt the same about Geddy's vocals for a long time. My brothers felt the same and that made it difficult to accept his vocals, but musicianship was absolutely remarkable. It grew on me and now I appreciate his vocals. There alot of singers out there that are terrible singers, but are very important and talented. I enjoyed your comment.
Geddy's bass in this song is soooooo amazing. During Alex's solo half the time I listen to Alex half the time im listening to geddy's bass under the guitar solo. And.... what can I say about neil.
First song I ever learned on drums, kiss Dr Love . Second song: rush 2112 side one.changed my musical life forever
Hemisphere’s favorite album of all time
Geddy plays keyboard and Taurus pedals live as well
Hi JP! Great reaction and as a huge fan I have to agree that there was something about the beginning synth that didn't always sit well with me and I would skip this song in the beginning. I returned to it and it is another Rush song that gets better with each listen and I love the solo and Geddy's bass under there and what he is doing
It's awesome that you got into this song so fast. At first I was kind of underwhelmed by it. My main criticism of it ,like you, is the intro and synth sound which don't do much for me. But once the song kicks into high gear it's awesome especially the solo from lifeson, it's one of his best. Rush is in my top 5 bands! You gotta check out hemispheres, one of the perfect albums in rock history
Thanks Floyd! Once we're past the intro, I'm all set!
Amazing what they can do with just 3 band members
It really is
Woohoo! More Rush! I'm with you on this being damn near close to perfection. To such a point that Rush only played this in full on two tours: the Moving Pictures Tour in '81, and the Time Machine Tour in 2010/11...despite numerous fan petitions begging for it to be played. When I heard the synth intro in 2010 I was immediately pumped beyond belief. Their constant ability to turn their sound on a dime is incredible. Your face when they went back to the synths between the New York/London verses was GOLD. It brought a massive grin to my face. There's very few Rush songs that you might not enjoy, and I'm so excited to see which song you go to from here.
Outside of my suggestion to do Counterparts in full, I would honestly love it if you listened to Force Ten or Ghost of a Chance.
Preferred live versions: Chicago Definitive March 1, 1981 & Time Machine Tour 2011: Live in Cleveland.
Ty Rich!
I saw them do it live on the Time Machine tour! Epic!!!
RUSH LIVES!!!! 🎉🎉🎉
Great analysis. I love this song and this album. I like all their phases though so I may be biased. Lol.
I find Rush likes to play around and try different things. Sometimes it works better than others but they’re always trying and expanding their sound.
Phenomenal live. I recommend trying a few live songs unless I missed them earlier from you. They are just as good live as recorded.
Thanks again for another reaction.
Ty Aaron!
Riffs!
Reflection?
Rolls!!
Refinement...
Resplendent Rush
Cue: response!(Now listening to you)
Yes pumped up for the riffs👍
And the drum rolls
The slow sparse build up was really powerful back in the day (pre 2:45 in ‘81)
You smiler U!😆😁
Soft spring rain i love that too !
🌸👍pretty amazing
Lyrics : angular
city
Life
That’s good how you interpret and disect them...
are they oblivious
A beauty overlooked?
They RUSH around too much 🍰💰💰
Very special indeed.
I’m glad time has been good to the synths in your head. ♥️🗜
As a 16year old this song made me cry
and it also rocked
But Geddy was right;
It’s still beautiful.
You know that one band you like in a genre you really don’t care for, well that would be Rush for me.
Nothing wrong with that!
At this point, Rush is their own Genre...
Geddy's Bass tone in Alex's solo section is killin' it!!
Gr8 choice, Justin. I saw this played live by Rush in 2011 and it was exciting. The whole album is this great or better.
Thanks RC!
I love every song on this album... Witch Hunt rocks too .... a truly great album 1st to last.. check out la Villa Strangiato for another masterpiece
Classic song from an awesome album and I pretty much agree with your observations here. As a die hard Rush fan I find this particular song a little dated now. The broken concept - stop/start of pacing really harks back to their old sprawling concept pieces and this almost seems like a final stab at a long, concept track, before resigning them to yesteryear, in favour of shorter, snappier, accessible tracks for all future albums. I almost see this track as a final swan song for their prog-rock heritage.
Ty BS (Great movie btw)
I really love this song but in a really different way. It feels subdued compared to many other Rush songs. And yet, there's an energy hidden within it that cannot be denied. The riffs are simple, but quality. The build-up is so subtle that you almost don't notice it, but by the end it's got incredible power.
I think the best way to describe this song is by the lyrical subject. It's just a mundane walk through a city, but by that walk you begin to understand something deeper about the place you're in, and ultimately about humanity as a whole. You don't know where it came from, but it's there and it's undeniable. It's beautiful, powerful, but subtle, songwriting and poetry.
On a different topic, since we talked about it before, I am putting a formal request in to have you listen to some Maudlin of the Well. I highly recommend the song "Heaven And Weak"--that sums up everything they have going on in a single track. Other stand-outs are "They Aren't All Beautiful" and "Girl With a Watering Can." I also recommend "The Ferryman," although that song requires you to listen to the tracks before and after to get the full context. (Of course, the best thing to do would be a full album listen of "Bath" but that's probably a bit much to ask. If you're up for it, though, ...)
Ben, lets talk about maudlin!
So, a week or two ago I was exploring some music on my own time (I know, I do that sometimes!), and came across Kayo Dot "Choirs of the Eye" with the song The Manifold Curiosity. Looked interesting, and the band name sounded familiar, so I hit play.
DUDE.
One of the best songs I've heard in a long time. So, I'm actually currently listening to the rest of Choirs on my own, as well as Bath. Sorry if I spoiled it since I've been listening to it off-camera, but man...I'm so glad I've found em.
@@JustJP Very cool! I'm happy that you are listening to them. I would've loved a reaction but probably no one else would. 😊 They're so obscure.
I know you like Kayo Dot. What do you think about Bath so far? It sucks, doesn't it? 😀
If my memory serves me, around this time they spoke about the impact the band The Police had on them.
Please react to "Limelight" - live version from Exit Stage Left 1981. It shows the band in its prime, playing a trademark song.
Yes I think I hear a bit of Stewart Copeland influence in Peart's playing on this one
@@dingbat19 The song "Distant Early Warning" is even more of an evidence, from "Grace Under Pressure".
All the songs on Moving Pictures are beautifully mastered and though other toons smack you in the face with how great they are, for me, this is the one that grew on me over time until it eventually became my favorite from the album. Interestingly enough, This is my kids favorite Rush tune as well. Not exactly sure what that says aside from that they have great taste and I have not completely failed them as a Father :-)
Haha, seems you're teaching him well
Not one of my favourite Rush tracks but still well worth a listen. They're always a class act.
yes they are!
This has made it to my 4th favorite over time.
Credit to you. This is a somewhat difficult song to enjoy on first listen. Although I appreciated it on my first listen, it took me 2-3 listens to start fully enjoying this song. I agree, this is pretty much the perfect song. The lyrics is beautiful as well. Can you do some more RUSH songs please.
Thanks Riddhi! Of course
Yeah, this is not really for amateurs so to speak.
This almost made my list : )
Ooooh, nice one!!!
Check out "Anthem" from their first album. Much grittier and in your face. Quite a gem. And, believe it or not, it is off their first album- the only one NOT featuring Peart on drums. John Rutsey, though, is no failure by a longshot. A very good player in his limited time with RUSH. Even if you don't review it, watch the vid. It's only 4 min and will make you respect Alex Lifeson yet more.
RIP Neil. I am using reaction videos to cheer me up after todays awful news.
❤
I love song limelight too.
This song could be seen as a bridge to later 80s production. As part of Moving Pictures its great, adds to the whole. BUT, as you noticed (kudos for that, and I mean it), synths are very much present, and the earlier Rush tightness is a little missing. I see this as a brigde to next Rush period, 80s, starting with Signals. Signals is great album, but Rush is no longer same progressive ROCK band. More poppy, perhaps more matured, perhaps a little less interesting.
Great reaction, as allways. I would love to hear more Rush reactions from you, but only if you enjoy it 😊. Quite a few fans consider period after live album All The Worlds a Stage and before live Exit Stage Left their peak. That is 4 studio albums. For me, peaks peak is ESL. Pure magic.
At this period the tools that Rush have are so sharp, they are kind of bragging all the way. I love it, the way confidence shines through.
Ty Blue! I'll always have more Rush, I just also like a bit of variety as well :)
Great reaction to a great song from a great album. Back in the day, I really loved the intro to this song. Maybe it was the era, but I thought it was fantastic. Today, I agree I sorta get that move along feel during the intro. This song along with Witch Hunt was like candy for me, just couldn't get enough of it when the album came out.
Justin in reference to Peart changing up the groove slightly listen to the songs "Scars". I just love how he keeps adjusting the groove.
Justin remember there was a song (can't remember the song) you reacted to and I stated your reaction described The Camera Eye. What was the name of the song? Comparatively were the reactions close?
I believe you first referenced this song regarding Clientele- Reflections After Jane. And yes, the thematic elements behind the city idea were near identical!
@@JustJP I just rewatched your reaction and you mentioned, you think this is the best Rush song you've heard thus far. I was wondering if you ever watched the Xanadu Ext stage Left live version. I know you know Rush is a world class band but seeing is believing. Here's the link: ua-cam.com/video/VuHS-gjMiVw/v-deo.html
Do the whole album.
Good commentary on RUSH JP.
Ty Phil🙃
loving the channel, thank you!....any chance for more rush?.....try the live version of "Ghost of a Chance"....a true gem ;)
Thanks Joe! There'll always be more Rush :)
❤
Looove this song! Love the whole album actually. I really like your reactions. You should try La Villa Strangiato. Absolute masterpiece!
Ty Vin🙃
Si entiendes el español.
Esta gran canción nunca la tocaron en vivo porque ellos decían que era una canción muy difícil de tocar.
3 people everyone, 3!!!!!!
you went deeeeeeeep
love it bro
Haha ty ty
Definitely gotta do Rush’s live version of Xanadu from Exit Stage Left. The drummer’s last name is pronounced
P ear T
This is the song that made me fall in love with Rush and Prog. I'd never heard nothing like it. The synth sounds from the beginning caught my attention immediately, I was confused by how they would even performed them. I loved the riffs, and the melody. I also noticed how Geddy tries to fit Peart's words and they end up sounding not entirely "naturally placed" within the time signatures etc, but it amazed me. And the guitar solo is just awesome. And the bass is incredible throughout but specially during the solo, I became obsessed to this day with that bass tone and if you think about it it's almost as if you couldn't decide which of them is soloing in that section. Not to mention the drums, specially the fills in the intro build up. Next for you should be one of these: Fly by night, The Necromancer, 2112, A farewell to kings, The spirit of radio... (I'm not sure if you've already listened to some of them). We usually recommend the most epic and well known songs, but you should seriously consider listening to full albums of these bands like you've done with Genesis (Rush, Yes...) they're just too good to be missed. Enjoy
Ty David. I have a lot of bands/albums up for considerations for album listens, haha. I'll keep em in mind!
I recommend you see the 2011 live in Cleveland version. With the visuals the song is even better, including the synths.
Ty for the suggestion Paul!
A tale of two cities
Have you ever heard of a UK band called Audience? Their album "The House On The Hill" is a masterpiece! I recommend the first song "Jackdaw". The entire album is pure gold.
I have! I've done a song from them here :)
@@JustJP Cool! Just checked it out. Thx.
Maybe, one day, you react to the song Animate. It's one of the my favorites from Rush.
I knew you would love this one. You should check out Witch Hunt from the same album, Moving Pictures. Very atmospheric, and the lyrics mean as much today as much as they did back in 1981.
Witch Hunt is part 3 of Fear, which has 4 parts to it. It would be cool if Justin reacted to all 4 songs, like an album review.
DukesRocks The lyrics to Witch Hunt are amazing. My favorite of the 4-part Fear series is The Enemy Within.
@@jaybird4093 For me my favorites in order is: The Weapon, Witch Hunt, The Enemy Within and Freeze. Lyrically for me The Weapon and Witch Hunt hits home most for me. Oddly the order in which the songs came out don't match the album debut order. Which tells me all 4 songs themes were planned well before the songs were written. Or the songs were written well before the album was released and just released in a different order
.
Witch Hunt - part 3 - Moving Pictures
The Weapon - part 2 - Signals
The Enemy Within - part 1 - Grace Under Pressure
Freeze - part 4 - Vapor Trails
DukesRocks Mine is TEW, TW, WH, & F. That's based solely on music. I'm ADD when it comes to lyrics.
Oh, yes! A lot of Rush is never enough!
I don't like this song very much, because it takes a lot of time to take off, and it gets a little repetitive. It has always made me miss "Red Barchetta", the second longest track on the album, which does kinda the same thing, but more spot on. Things like this have generally made Rush's next album, "Signals", seem much more solid and enjoyable to me, because I don't find weak moments in "Signals", as I do in "Moving Pictures". But, of course, I am not saying that "Moving Pictures" is bad; nothing could be further from both my opinion and reality.
I am not a huge fan of this song either and though I respect those that love it, this song is the weak one on a super Moving Pictures album for myself. It just doesn't grab me too much. It's like part A New York Part B London but the same song. I understand the repetitive aspect you talk of. My ears feel the same for this one as you
New to your channel, great stuff, I like your perspective and delivery!! Rush is a fantastic band and has been my favorite for 4 decades. Check out Losing it on Signals if you haven't already, the lyrics are just amazing!!
Thank you so much Scott, for watching and the recommendation🙃
2112 is life changing, for some people. Like me. It is the reason I'm a musician. You have to listen to the whole song, though, which is over 20 minutes long. Don't worry, it is time well spent!
Ty Chris!
RUSH 🖒🖒🖒👏✌
BRING IT
RUSH🙃
I’m just wondering why you don’t react to the live versions of Rush songs? They are so much better in concert than on album and are best experienced on the lighted stage.
Not one of my favorite Rush songs but still solid musicianship throughout this song!
I’d have to respectfully disagree. The first couple minutes is what hooked me on this song. Love the synths. Simplistic yet in your face. Then again, I’m a synth musician so there’s some bias. =]