Thankfully though, we have HiFi Systems to capture & keep their music forever…. Yeah, it’s not exactly the real thing, ..BUT it’s so much better than when I was young (1960’s!!).🇨🇦🇺🇸
See, me old-fart. Did I shed tears watching? Yes. Check warpaint, territories. Or better yet Red Sector A. This shit isn't funny. Geddy remains a Jew. with only his Mom.
Somewhere in the summer of 1980, I heard this song for the first time. I'd never heard of Rush, or any of there music before. I asked my friend at the party about this song, he told me it was by Rush. I saved my money and bought the Permanent Waves album (how I wish there had been an internet with instant downloadability, but the wait was worth it). Discovering Rush changed my life. This album taught me there is so much more to music then catchy chords. I have been a Rush fan, really more like a disciple, ever since. For later generations, you don't have to be a long time listener to appreciate this band. They really have something for everyone, as they evolved their style but their heart never changed. I am so grateful for their artistry; they literally wrote the theme music for most of my life. Thank you Alex, Geddy and Neil.
I was born in 1978 and I first discovered RUSH around 1991 after listening to EXIT... STAGE LEFT and Carress Of Steel. Its was just like you said,.. you don't simply become a "fan" of RUSH. You don't just listen to the music either. You analyze it... You compare live versions of the same songs from tour-to-tour. There may be a brief bridge or a "breakdown" part in a song that's maybe just a few seconds long... but you will find yourself listening to it over and over just because it's SOOO badass. A great example would be FORCE 10 when they're ready to end that subtle instrumental segment in the middle... and then they go into that fusion-jazz breakdown on Neil's snare drum fill cue... AHHH so good
@@colinhackett390 I remember hearing this for the first time when I was 16, 40 yrs ago. I kept playing it over and over trying to learn it, and I just could not get my head around how simple, yet how beautiful the solo and the rest of the song sounded. Today it still feels the same.
Well, as unfortunate as it is, they never got around to appreciating much from Caress of Steel. 'The Necromancer' and 'Fountain of Lamneth' are epic tracks, it's sad to know we'll never be able to hear them get the live justice they deserve.
Tom Williams I agree. COS is my favorite Rush album. It along with FBN were the first 2 Rush albums I bought in 1975. You can’t beat “Bastille Day”, “The Necromancer” & “TFOL”!! At least we got a “taste” of “Lakeside Park” along with “Anthem” on the R40 Tour. 👍👍
If they had to play all the fan requests in one “set list” the show would be 2 days instead of 3 hours. Of course you’ll hear no complaints from me, I’d be happy to bring a sleeping bag & a bucket of chicken, for the “long haul”. 🤘🤘🤘🤘✌️
And may I add, he can't hit the high notes at this point in his career. "Jacob's Ladder" did not require Geddy's traditionally high pitch. Call me on Skype. My Skype name is JeffInCincy
A HUGE element of what made Rush unique was the artful, poetic, insightful, literate, narrative, imaginative, heartfelt, logical lyrics of Neil peart. His lyricism was as profound as his musicianship.
Unfortunately I believe your right. These guys strived for perfection and were their own worst credit. I would take being wrong about the future but I'm not seeing it now
Oh how i'm gonna miss calling my buddies to ask "are you going to the Rush concert?"....this question had been asked since 1984(for me and my buddies at least).....thank you Rush......THANK YOU.
Closer to 60 than 50 now. I consider myself pretty fucking lucky to have been around during the time of Rush. Such a masterful blend of musicianship, lyrics, and personality. The camaraderie they have displayed over the decades of live performances is unrivaled. The stories they've weaved into their music, the audiences reached far and wide. All of us that have an appreciation for their talents, the young and the older of us, the early days, the later days, we should all consider ourselves truly fortunate. Long live Rush!
Was fortunate enough to attend the last three shows on their final tour. All three setlist were slightly different. Loved every show! RIP Professor 😔 🌹🎶🎹🍁🎸🥁👍
this is one of my favorite Rush songs, and rarely mentioned among the greats...interesting they didnt play it live for 30+ years.... its got almost all the things I love about their music in one song
+Liz Vargas Last time i heard them played that live was on their "Moving Pictures" tour and they were announcing recording for a upcoming "live" album which later that year was "Exit Stage Left".
These guys can still hit every cue . Unbelievable how they can correct and continue like the ultimate professional music group. They instinctively know where each other are in a song. WONDERFUL !BLOODY WONDERFUL !
6:15 Back in high school in the early 80s, I used to play these notes on my bass guitar over and over and over again until my left hand fingers couldn't move anymore. Good memories...
I got super high last night on my front porch with this beauty of a song, breathing rhythmically to this song and climbing the ladder. I've never felt so good.
It's very eerie watching this here in 2022 knowing that there was only a few shows left for these guys. What a run these guys had , what a lifetime of memories we will never forget .THANK YOU NEIL , ALEX AND GEDDY FOR 40 YEARS OF GREAT TIMES .🙏✌❤ from the 🇺🇸 .
Alex said he had wanted to do a rewrite of this song, but they decided to do it as originally recorded for the R40 tour, because they had thousands of requests for it.
Geddy resisted playing this song as he said he felt lyrics were not his favorite and awkward to sing (same reason for absence of Caress of Steel in concert). Alex and Neil, in contrast, were not thrilled to play "Closer to the Heart" again in later years but played it out of "retirement" for Mexico and Brazil for Vapor Trails tour at Geddy's insistence because of the overwhelming popularity and requests live in those markets.
One of the greatest rock bands of all time. Kids today (2018) have no idea what real music is all about. So glad I saw RUSH 3 times in concert to experience the magic.
I agree. Their live shows were outstanding and indeed magical. I saw them in concert three times with floor seats (Snakes & Ladders 2007, Clockwork Angels 2013, and R40 in 2015)...and consider myself very lucky to have had the opportunity. I tell you, when those stadiums lights go off at the beginning of the concert, I can still remember the choked up feeling you get when the crowd roars and you are about to see these three guys hop on stage for three hours. Something I can barely put into words. If you didn't get a chance to see them in concert, their DVD's are very nicely put together. I personally own Rush in Rio (highly recommended), Snakes & Arrows, Clockwork Angels, and R40 tour blu rays to re-live the experience.
LOVE this song. I was lucky enough to see it live at R40 tour in Toronto. Sadly many people don't know of this Jacob's Ladder because it has probably never been played on the radio. It is outstanding and incorporates some of their best musicianship. It's kind of like three songs in one! Freewill, Subdivisions and Xanadu all in one. Some hard rocking rhythm, beautiful and phat 80's synths along with some 70's progressive rock. The album version is really worth a listen on some good headphones to pick up all the nuances.
They played Hemispheres on this tour for crying out loud. Hemispheres! Also, Geddy played a whole bunch of different basses he never uses live. Awesome show it was indeed.
I saw R40 in Portland, Oregon only a month before their final ever show. I had seen Rush 5 times before that in 1986, 90, 94, 96, & 97, but I had never seen them do this AWESOME song, or ANY of the songs from 'Caress of Steel'. So this and 'Lakeside Park' were highlights of the show for me. I'm DEVASTATED that NEIL didn't get a longer retirement to be with his 2nd DAUGHTER after the tragedy in the 1990's! R.I.P. NEIL! Long Live RUSH!!!
Geddy Lee has such the funniest singing face of all musicians. A true master of the gurn, I've not seen someone pull face-shapes like that for a long time. Kudos sir, the enthusiastic emotional output always makes my day and makes me chuckle.
Man, this really kicks ass. There will never be another band like this. They have been instrumental in shaping my taste in music from the beginning. I can remember discovering them in my youth in 1974. RIP Mr professor. You will be missed by many
FePyroMaiden I was very lucky to see them play Jacob’s Ladder live in Austin at the beginning of the R40 tour. It was an incredible sight. I’ll never forget the way Geddy introduced the song. He said something along the lines of: “I haven’t played this song in over 30 years, this is called Jacob’s Ladder.”
This song is unbelievable .I close my eyes and imagine watching a storm front build up up up .....remember watching these shelf clouds when i was a kid. I guess this was the theme song to those times. What else could it be ..👍😊🇺🇸
I have been to four Rush concerts starting with Roll the Bones on Memorial Day weekend May 1992 and ending with the Time Machine tour 2010 and have never heard them play this song live! I love the Permanent Waves album version and even more the Exit Stage Left version in 1981. What I would give to hear this live one more time! What's amazing is this band can play this song flawlessly 35 years after it was produced!
Another masterpiece from these guys. Still cannot believe Neil is no longer withus and that we will never be able to hear this played live. Godspeed Neil.
In 1980 my Mother remarried and I gained an older step brother. I only had a bunch of KISS records at the time, and he had a huge collection of everything. Thumbing through his records, one caught my eye and mind. It was beautiful blue with a brain on the cover. When I pulled out the vinyl it was pink. I had to play it, and of coarse read the lyrics. I was hooked for life that day at barely 13 years old. Luckily, my step bro had all their records, and the following year in 81 took me to my first concert May 9th 1981. Moving Pictures Tour which was immortalized on the cover of Exit Stage Left. Thank You Rush!!! RIP Neil, we miss you so much.
First began listening and appreciating their uniqueness, style and heart in high school during the ‘70’s ....& STILL LISTEN in the 2020’s ~ THX Guys for the 50+ YEARS of MAGIC! This and The Trees are my absolute favorites..!!!🇺🇸
Wow! To think that I was at the fourth to last Rush show ever is a moment in life that I will cherish forever. Had a great seat in front of Geddy row I. You can hear me yell Yes! at 5:00 . After the show It was quickly agreed upon that Jacob's Ladder was the best song of the night. Wicked swing!
Had no idea of the MGM layout show I showed up 4 hours early to ensure I didn't miss anything , at the time I had no idea that was the end, glad I was able to enjoy this awesome Show....Long Live RUSH......
Traveled with my daughter from Ohio to Vegas for her 22nd birthday to see the boys jam one last time. Thanks for the video. And thank you Ged, Alex and Neil. You will be missed :(
I was at this show, and a year later embarked on a 10,000 mile solo road trip around the country. It was 2 mos before the election. Some will look back and perhaps say it was before everything as we knew it changed. Catalytic. I was driving just after the sun came up, and Jacob’s Ladder came on. I’d always loved it, and never given much thought to it’s origins. I didn’t know at that time that it’s a biblical reference, and I don’t think it was the bands intent to call attention to that. It invoked an awesome visual, and sounded amazing. I came around a bend, blasting this song, and the road opened up to a wide expanse of endless flatland with plateaus, dusted in a pale green. It was just outside the Grand Canyon. I’d never seen anything like it. Pulled off and walked a few hundred feet. It was the definition of soundless. The quietest moments I’d ever experienced. Not a rustle. I didn’t even hear the normal ringing in my ears. And then I felt it. Everything became infinite. Larger than life, but all connected, and I was in it. I was aware of something on a level I’d never experienced before and since, to that degree. Words don’t do the feeling justice, but if you’ve read this far, you either know what I mean or you will someday. Don’t lose faith, no matter your belief. Life is...what we make it.
Thank you Rush for the memories and for creating so many masterpieces that are still relevant today. I've listened to Rush since 1978, I was 14 years old.
I saw R40 in Portland, Oregon, and was SHOCKED when they played this. It was a song I had never seen them do live at the other 5 times I saw them, and I never thought I'd get to see it live. Really, REALLY COOL!! Cygnus X-2112
I've always loved this song and wanted to see the live version to find out I don't play it like Alex (as usual ) but from my daughter saying "is that Tom Hanks?" When I was watching "Beyond the lighted stage" and seeing this and knowing that the guys have a wicked sence of humor. But have Tom Hanks, William Shatner and Larry David do a Old man Rush spoof. Yeah I know, silly idea, but I got a little chuckle 😊
They actually split up for a few years after Neil's first wife and daughter passed away in a car crash back in 2001 or 2002 then they came back almost 10 years later and have been reunited since. Rest in peace Neil.
So happy to have been at this show. Being a bassist that was heavily influenced by Geddy Lee, I grew up on these guys, yet never saw them....40 years a Rush fan and I never got to see them. They played only 3 more shows after this one, talk about cutting it close! R.I.P Neil and R.I.P Rush...and Thank you!
I saw last show at the Inglewood Forum and still can't explain myself why I didn't go to the one at Irvine Meadows,I saw them at the Universal amphitheater,Glen Helen wathever was called at the time. Grace under pressure tour was first time I saw them live. I am a lucky rocker!
I was so lucky to have been at this exact show in Vegas. Clearly remember getting goose-flesh during Alex's solo... Still cannot fathom all that has happened sincethen but it is what it is. RIP Neil, legends live forever.
The time odd measured time signatures are something I always loved about Rush starting out as a drummer and pianist. i.e. 5:20 . An alternating 6/8. 7/8 feel with "the master" Neil bending and twisting time like like a triple meter or 7/8 is not quite enough. At 41, I've been a Rush fan since like 1989. Saw the "Presto " tour twice. Let me tell you, there isn't a band out there that worked harder and for the duration of time that they did. We miss you Neil! musicians around the world will take the three of their spirits into the future and beyond.
Isn't it actually 13 as in 6-4-3? Alex is playing a steady but repeating 6-4-3 for 13. I guess it all depends on how you count it but to me the repeat happens after the 13th note but I guess it could be 6-7, 6-7, 6-7 too.
The viewer wants to see the band, not the audience, which is something the professionals who release the official DVDs don’t seem to understand. (And yes, the sound quality in this video is far superior to the DVD.)
One thing I've always found with Rush is that their live performances are frequently much better than their recorded material. This and the Album Exit Stage Left clearly show this to be the case.
What’s sad is that Neil was in a lot of pain. He didn’t want to tour but was basically guilted by Alex. Geddy also wanted to tour one last time. Imo they probably told Neil it was the last time and he agreed to a shortened North American tour. The time stand still documentary was hard to watch bc I felt like I didn’t need an apology from Neil. I had always thought of you are hurting and can’t do it anymore don’t. I was born 20 years too late so I didn’t get to see Rush a lot but they were still 3 of the best shows I’ve ever seen. Thanks for bringing so much joy to the world Neil.
The world lost a very important person with the loss of Neil Peart. Not only being one of the top three best drummers, he was also gifted in seeing the world in a way most of us would desire. His writing and lyrics show he was a person of deep thought about the way humanity has become. His concerns of the way a few people dictate what humanity does or isn't doing is troubling. It would have been nice to have had his views in a book. The desire for peace in the world today seems like a hopeless dream. "You will see what man chose one of these days" Look around, you can already see it! Im not trying to be Mr. Negative but, we need to change for the better. Peace and love are better than what we are funding today with our tax dollars. Posted with the hopeful idea of a better world......
This song is seriously underrated! Neil’s lyrics and Geddy’s and Alex’s playing perfectly capture the image and feeling of storm clouds and the sun peaking through. I wish I could have seen these guys in concert again. Best band ever!
Rush is baddass as hell. I saw them in 80 and in 81. I love those motherfuckers dammit they kick ass. Sorry: this was the first thought rolling off of my head after seeing this video. I will now return to my normally civlized self.
One of the main reasons I love Rush is that when you go to a concert....no matter what year... They always played the song just like it was recorded on the album! This is a great example. RIP Neil Peart, and thanks for all the years of amazing lyrics like Jacobs Ladder.
I'm glad I got to se them on four different tours: Signals, Hold Your Fire, Test for Echo, Vapor Trails, and Time Machine. Three times in Ohio and last in Florida.
That was 2nd and last Rush concert. 1st was a few days before at MSG in NY. I've always wanted to see my favorite band playing. It was a dream I had for more than 25 years.
![RUSH - 30th Anniversary Tour - YYZ/TheTrees [HD]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/0eNKVf3Qw6M/mqdefault.jpg)
There was nobody like Rush. Unfortunately, there may never be anyone like them again.
greatest band to ever exist.
If there ever is another band like RUSH it won't be during our lifetime!!!
Thankfully though, we have HiFi Systems to capture & keep their music forever…. Yeah, it’s not exactly the real thing, ..BUT it’s so much better than when I was young (1960’s!!).🇨🇦🇺🇸
RIP dear Neil. If only the world could be more like you
It can. Start with yourself. Lead by example. Its easy.
I did not know my beloved Professor passed. See most grown men or women aspire to be the best at 1 thing. My beloved Neil taught me this.
There are many more such as Neil. They reside in Ontario Canada.
See most folks don't quite understand.
See, me old-fart. Did I shed tears watching? Yes.
Check warpaint, territories. Or better yet Red Sector A. This shit isn't funny. Geddy remains a Jew. with only his Mom.
Somewhere in the summer of 1980, I heard this song for the first time. I'd never heard of Rush, or any of there music before. I asked my friend at the party about this song, he told me it was by Rush. I saved my money and bought the Permanent Waves album (how I wish there had been an internet with instant downloadability, but the wait was worth it). Discovering Rush changed my life. This album taught me there is so much more to music then catchy chords. I have been a Rush fan, really more like a disciple, ever since. For later generations, you don't have to be a long time listener to appreciate this band. They really have something for everyone, as they evolved their style but their heart never changed.
I am so grateful for their artistry; they literally wrote the theme music for most of my life. Thank you Alex, Geddy and Neil.
feeling it too bro, bought farewell to Kings when I was 15 , 41 yrs ago
yes, yes yes. Their lyrics really set them apart from many "prog rock" bands.
I was born in 1978 and I first discovered RUSH around 1991 after listening to EXIT... STAGE LEFT and Carress Of Steel. Its was just like you said,.. you don't simply become a "fan" of RUSH. You don't just listen to the music either. You analyze it...
You compare live versions of the same songs from tour-to-tour. There may be a brief bridge or a "breakdown" part in a song that's maybe just a few seconds long... but you will find yourself listening to it over and over just because it's SOOO badass. A great example would be FORCE 10 when they're ready to end that subtle instrumental segment in the middle... and then they go into that fusion-jazz breakdown on Neil's snare drum fill cue... AHHH so good
@@colinhackett390 I remember hearing this for the first time when I was 16, 40 yrs ago. I kept playing it over and over trying to learn it, and I just could not get my head around how simple, yet how beautiful the solo and the rest of the song sounded. Today it still feels the same.
Amen!!
You gotta love how rush embrace all their old material. Jacobs Ladder is one of my all time favourites
Well, as unfortunate as it is, they never got around to appreciating much from Caress of Steel. 'The Necromancer' and 'Fountain of Lamneth' are epic tracks, it's sad to know we'll never be able to hear them get the live justice they deserve.
Tom Williams I agree. COS is my favorite Rush album. It along with FBN were the first 2 Rush albums I bought in 1975.
You can’t beat “Bastille Day”, “The Necromancer” & “TFOL”!! At least we got a “taste” of “Lakeside Park” along with “Anthem” on the R40 Tour. 👍👍
If they had to play all the fan requests in one “set list” the show would be 2 days instead of 3 hours. Of course you’ll hear no complaints from me, I’d be happy to bring a sleeping bag & a bucket of chicken, for the “long haul”. 🤘🤘🤘🤘✌️
And may I add, he can't hit the high notes at this point in his career. "Jacob's Ladder" did not require Geddy's traditionally high pitch. Call me on Skype. My Skype name is JeffInCincy
Caress of steel was not one of my faves in my youth. Over the decades it rose to the top
A HUGE element of what made Rush unique was the artful, poetic, insightful, literate, narrative, imaginative, heartfelt, logical lyrics of Neil peart. His lyricism was as profound as his musicianship.
The changing dynamics of this song is my masterpiece for Rush. That groove at mid song when they are going hard. Unreal...
Agreed. If I had to pick one Rush song to listen to, it's a tie between this and The Camera Eye.
With many close seconds right behind to challenge ties. The Camera Eye is Phenomenal too.
Unfortunately I believe your right. These guys strived for perfection and were their own worst credit. I would take being wrong about the future but I'm not seeing it now
One of the greatest bands that walked on this earth... 3 men playing & they sounded like 10... and those compositions.. pure magic...
Another killer song by the planets greatest band ever!
Galaxy's greatest band...
Greatest band of The Solar Federation.
Best band in the four cuadrants.Even in the fourth dimension
Oh how i'm gonna miss calling my buddies to ask "are you going to the Rush concert?"....this question had been asked since 1984(for me and my buddies at least).....thank you Rush......THANK YOU.
Closer to 60 than 50 now. I consider myself pretty fucking lucky to have been around during the time of Rush. Such a masterful blend of musicianship, lyrics, and personality. The camaraderie they have displayed over the decades of live performances is unrivaled. The stories they've weaved into their music, the audiences reached far and wide. All of us that have an appreciation for their talents, the young and the older of us, the early days, the later days, we should all consider ourselves truly fortunate. Long live Rush!
Was fortunate enough to attend the last three shows on their final tour. All three setlist were slightly different. Loved every show! RIP Professor 😔 🌹🎶🎹🍁🎸🥁👍
Envy u
God, I miss them, I really do. 53 years old and my formative ears were centered around Rush.
this is one of my favorite Rush songs, and rarely mentioned among the greats...interesting they didnt play it live for 30+ years.... its got almost all the things I love about their music in one song
Geddy said it was never meant to be played live
Damn alex is the best guitarist in history .
Alex is a great guitarist but he is no Eddie Van Halen or Vito Bratta
Agreed! He never gets enough credit! All people talk about are his band mates.
Perfect for rush thats for sure
@@maddgun thank God!
@@maddgun I don't think Alex cares.
I was there and this was the highlight of the evening for me ! I dreamt it for years !!!
+Liz Vargas right on liz{ditto)
+Liz Vargas Me too Liz! I was at the Philly show and had not seen/heard Jacob's Ladder since the '81 Tour. Truly stunning.....
+Liz Vargas ''''I HAVE BEEN TO EVERY TOUR SINCE 1984 WOW BEST OF TIMES
+Liz Vargas Saw them three times on the west coast this summer and heard this each time...loved it!
+Liz Vargas Last time i heard them played that live was on their "Moving Pictures" tour and they were announcing recording for a upcoming "live" album which later that year was "Exit Stage Left".
These guys can still hit every cue . Unbelievable how they can correct and continue like the ultimate professional music group. They instinctively know where each other are in a song. WONDERFUL !BLOODY WONDERFUL !
low and ominous. RUSH MADE THIS A MASTERPIECE!
6:15 Back in high school in the early 80s, I used to play these notes on my bass guitar over and over and over again until my left hand fingers couldn't move anymore. Good memories...
I'm surprised your principal didn't toss you out of there
my favorite track off of "Permanent Waves"... the 2nd being "Natural Science"...
dude no way natural science is #1! lol
This for me is one of those that underwhealms on the recording but comes alive when live. Absolutely love it. Always feels too short!
@@flatfifth5876 no, he had it right. jacob's ladder is Rush's best song because it is the coolest song in the universe so far
SΨM SΩLVΔΠIΔ Nothing tops Natural science imo, quintessential Rush song
I can agree with your song ranking. Very true.
The solo always gives me chills.
If that doesn't put a big ole smile on your face, nothing will.
Best band ever...💕
I agree.
4:50 is worth the price of admission alone -- Neil actually playing the chimes instead of using a triggered drum pad sound or something.
P Jet - And he played a real glockenspiel. Old school.
Tubular bells LOL
@@jamesweldon9726 yupp
Sad that i'll never see rush, how much was admission, always wondered
@@Mcrclerk I was lucky to buy 4th row center in 1979 at the los angles forum for 75 dollars
So rare for them to play this live, a welcome addition to any show ...
Such gravitas
this is my favourite piece from rush and this absolutely marvelous, it gives me chills
I got super high last night on my front porch with this beauty of a song, breathing rhythmically to this song and climbing the ladder. I've never felt so good.
It's very eerie watching this here in 2022 knowing that there was only a few shows left for these guys. What a run these guys had , what a lifetime of memories we will never forget .THANK YOU NEIL , ALEX AND GEDDY FOR 40 YEARS OF GREAT TIMES .🙏✌❤ from the 🇺🇸 .
Good is good. 70's ROCK will never be out-done, EVER...
The album this is from came out in 1980. Get with the program dude. And no, good music can be found from any era...you just have to open your mind.
Garner Brown
Technically, Permanent Waves was recorded in late 1979 and was officially released on 14 January 1980.
@@garnerbrown1077 he is entitled to his opinion just like you. Get with the program. Dude.
I prefer 80's, especially 80's Rush.
But all decades have their strong points.
You will be missed, Bubba. I mean, Mr. Pratt. Thank you for the memories, and thank for speaking things that other people felt but no one said.
I love this song. I always thought it was very under-rated and should've been done live much more often than it was.
I was thinking it was WAAAY over rated , because of the repetition. Don't get me wrong it is a Legendary Song by the MASTERS !!!!
Alex said he had wanted to do a rewrite of this song, but they decided to do it as originally recorded for the R40 tour, because they had thousands of requests for it.
Thank goodness they did play this as originally intended, I think a re-write would have totally ruined it, you can't improve this song.
Geddy resisted playing this song as he said he felt lyrics were not his favorite and awkward to sing (same reason for absence of Caress of Steel in concert). Alex and Neil, in contrast, were not thrilled to play "Closer to the Heart" again in later years but played it out of "retirement" for Mexico and Brazil for Vapor Trails tour at Geddy's insistence because of the overwhelming popularity and requests live in those markets.
One of the greatest rock bands of all time. Kids today (2018) have no idea what real music is all about. So glad I saw RUSH 3 times in concert to experience the magic.
I agree. Their live shows were outstanding and indeed magical. I saw them in concert three times with floor seats (Snakes & Ladders 2007, Clockwork Angels 2013, and R40 in 2015)...and consider myself very lucky to have had the opportunity. I tell you, when those stadiums lights go off at the beginning of the concert, I can still remember the choked up feeling you get when the crowd roars and you are about to see these three guys hop on stage for three hours. Something I can barely put into words. If you didn't get a chance to see them in concert, their DVD's are very nicely put together.
I personally own Rush in Rio (highly recommended), Snakes & Arrows, Clockwork Angels, and R40 tour blu rays to re-live the experience.
Don't worry, there are still plenty of young rush fans out there.
LOVE this song. I was lucky enough to see it live at R40 tour in Toronto. Sadly many people don't know of this Jacob's Ladder because it has probably never been played on the radio. It is outstanding and incorporates some of their best musicianship. It's kind of like three songs in one! Freewill, Subdivisions and Xanadu all in one. Some hard rocking rhythm, beautiful and phat 80's synths along with some 70's progressive rock. The album version is really worth a listen on some good headphones to pick up all the nuances.
NOOOOO I can't believe they played this! Can't believe I missed this tour!!
You missed the last show of RUSH.
ISTJohnny Thanks for making Jeremy feel so much better, haha!
They played Hemispheres on this tour for crying out loud. Hemispheres!
Also, Geddy played a whole bunch of different basses he never uses live.
Awesome show it was indeed.
Me tooooo😭
I flew out from Chicago to see this show. What a great time, great memories. "I wish that I could live it all again."
My favourite Rush song. Just wonderful. The best band EVER. I have lived my life listening to Rush. The best.
I saw R40 in Portland, Oregon only a month before their final ever show. I had seen Rush 5 times before that in 1986, 90, 94, 96, & 97, but I had never seen them do this AWESOME song, or ANY of the songs from 'Caress of Steel'. So this and 'Lakeside Park' were highlights of the show for me. I'm DEVASTATED that NEIL didn't get a longer retirement to be with his 2nd DAUGHTER after the tragedy in the 1990's! R.I.P. NEIL! Long Live RUSH!!!
R.I.P. NEIL no one will ever be close one amazing drummer
Geddy Lee has such the funniest singing face of all musicians. A true master of the gurn, I've not seen someone pull face-shapes like that for a long time. Kudos sir, the enthusiastic emotional output always makes my day and makes me chuckle.
Man, this really kicks ass. There will never be another band like this. They have been instrumental in shaping my taste in music from the beginning. I can remember discovering them in my youth in 1974. RIP Mr professor. You will be missed by many
Was at the Las Vegas show, after this song felt like I had just witness one of the greatest rush performance ever! Please keep R40 tour going...
I was at this show as well. From this song through 2112 was just one eargasm after another!
FePyroMaiden I was very lucky to see them play Jacob’s Ladder live in Austin at the beginning of the R40 tour. It was an incredible sight. I’ll never forget the way Geddy introduced the song. He said something along the lines of: “I haven’t played this song in over 30 years, this is called Jacob’s Ladder.”
RIP Neil, you will be missed!
My fondest memories of when i was young , this band is and always will be a part of me. Thankyou Rush.
For being a part of my life.
Amen
I was there!!! I finally heard this one live!
Watchmaker Fs This song was a huge highlight for me. It literally brought tears to my eyes when I saw it live.
You guys are lucky
Greatest Song from Rush...i wish i could have been there..thanx for the record TapeHeadToo!!!
Neil.........What a wonderful performance. RIP
Took my 20yr old stepson to see them. My 3rd rush concert . Love them. They never cease to amaze.
Incredible sound. Thank you for posting. This was my 82nd Rush Concert.
Only?
one word: Masterpiece
This song is unbelievable .I close my eyes and imagine watching a storm front build up up up .....remember watching these shelf clouds when i was a kid. I guess this was the theme song to those times. What else could it be ..👍😊🇺🇸
Song is loosely bases on Genesis 28; give it a read and you will see what Neil did with that chapter.
God i love this song. The ending is perfect.😌
I have been to four Rush concerts starting with Roll the Bones on Memorial Day weekend May 1992 and ending with the Time Machine tour 2010 and have never heard them play this song live! I love the Permanent Waves album version and even more the Exit Stage Left version in 1981. What I would give to hear this live one more time! What's amazing is this band can play this song flawlessly 35 years after it was produced!
Another masterpiece from these guys. Still cannot believe Neil is no longer withus and that we will never be able to hear this played live. Godspeed Neil.
You may appreciate this.
ua-cam.com/video/ZCMh4feIYG0/v-deo.html
In 1980 my Mother remarried and I gained an older step brother. I only had a bunch of KISS records at the time, and he had a huge collection of everything. Thumbing through his records, one caught my eye and mind. It was beautiful blue with a brain on the cover. When I pulled out the vinyl it was pink. I had to play it, and of coarse read the lyrics. I was hooked for life that day at barely 13 years old. Luckily, my step bro had all their records, and the following year in 81 took me to my first concert May 9th 1981. Moving Pictures Tour which was immortalized on the cover of Exit Stage Left. Thank You Rush!!! RIP Neil, we miss you so much.
Jacobs ladder was the track that sold me to following Rush ❤❤❤
Lifeson solo's and the build up had me hooked 😊😊😊
First began listening and appreciating their uniqueness, style and heart in high school during the ‘70’s ....& STILL LISTEN in the 2020’s ~ THX Guys for the 50+ YEARS of MAGIC! This and The Trees are my absolute favorites..!!!🇺🇸
If they don't play this at my funeral I'm not coming!
Wow! To think that I was at the fourth to last Rush show ever is a moment in life that I will cherish forever. Had a great seat in front of Geddy row I. You can hear me yell Yes! at 5:00 . After the show It was quickly agreed upon that Jacob's Ladder was the best song of the night. Wicked swing!
One of the hidden gems on every album. The trees, passage to Bangkok, analog kid ect.
Rush has gems...my ears hear all...cheers bro
Wow,BEST "live" version of Jacob's Ladder on UA-cam!!! Bravo!!!
Gonna miss rush.hold on to the memories and albums forever
Had no idea of the MGM layout show I showed up 4 hours early to ensure I didn't miss anything , at the time I had no idea that was the end, glad I was able to enjoy this awesome Show....Long Live RUSH......
My last of so many RUSH shows! How I will miss these epic events! My heart is still heavy!
Wow , excellent live version still find it hard to believe Neil is gone RIP Neil you still live on in your music and our hearts
I was there and I memorable every single second looking this fantastic band .... Neil , Alex and Geddy are incredible....
I wish I were there. Great to see Lifeson doing those guitar parts after 35 years, so steady as always.
Per Spellman Alex is one of the most underrated guitarists in rock history. He is so awesome!
Traveled with my daughter from Ohio to Vegas for her 22nd birthday to see the boys jam one last time. Thanks for the video. And thank you Ged, Alex and Neil. You will be missed :(
I was at this show, and a year later embarked on a 10,000 mile solo road trip around the country. It was 2 mos before the election. Some will look back and perhaps say it was before everything as we knew it changed. Catalytic. I was driving just after the sun came up, and Jacob’s Ladder came on. I’d always loved it, and never given much thought to it’s origins. I didn’t know at that time that it’s a biblical reference, and I don’t think it was the bands intent to call attention to that. It invoked an awesome visual, and sounded amazing. I came around a bend, blasting this song, and the road opened up to a wide expanse of endless flatland with plateaus, dusted in a pale green. It was just outside the Grand Canyon. I’d never seen anything like it. Pulled off and walked a few hundred feet. It was the definition of soundless. The quietest moments I’d ever experienced. Not a rustle. I didn’t even hear the normal ringing in my ears. And then I felt it. Everything became infinite. Larger than life, but all connected, and I was in it. I was aware of something on a level I’d never experienced before and since, to that degree. Words don’t do the feeling justice, but if you’ve read this far, you either know what I mean or you will someday. Don’t lose faith, no matter your belief. Life is...what we make it.
One of my all time favorites!........RIP Mr.Peart , I use to sit in my room and air drum trying to mimic every move he made.
Dear God how I miss this band
Thank you Rush for the memories and for creating so many masterpieces that are still relevant today. I've listened to Rush since 1978, I was 14 years old.
the guitar intro solo is one of the best guitar part I have ever heard in my life...
He can play bass on three fingers better than I can hold my life together with all limbs
Mc Swuggins.. You can get your life together.. I have faith in you..
@@ernienettles5225 thank you :)
I saw R40 in Portland, Oregon, and was SHOCKED when they played this. It was a song I had never seen them do live at the other 5 times I saw them, and I never thought I'd get to see it live. Really, REALLY COOL!! Cygnus X-2112
So crazy, the fact that this band was around for 40 years, yet their last tour was their biggest one. long live Rush!
My GOD they Sound almost like the Studio Version. WELL DONE !!! 👏 PROFESSIONALS
All RUSH music is mystical, in-depth meanings and passages..
True masters in their Art 🤙😎
I've always loved this song and wanted to see the live version to find out I don't play it like Alex (as usual ) but from my daughter saying "is that Tom Hanks?" When I was watching "Beyond the lighted stage" and seeing this and knowing that the guys have a wicked sence of humor. But have Tom Hanks, William Shatner and Larry David do a Old man Rush spoof. Yeah I know, silly idea, but I got a little chuckle 😊
There, true Magic :-)
Just watched Natural Science live too. How is Alex Lifeson not considered the most amazing guitarist EVER!
I wonder what the odds are for a rock band to make it big, and then stay together for as long as Rush has. Its probably around a billion to one
They actually split up for a few years after Neil's first wife and daughter passed away in a car crash back in 2001 or 2002 then they came back almost 10 years later and have been reunited since.
Rest in peace Neil.
@@robertadiaz5522 1997 was when that happened, and they came back with Vapor Trails in 2002.
@@robertadiaz5522 they didn't split up.
@@roberteifler71 exactly, they went on hiatus.
So happy to have been at this show. Being a bassist that was heavily influenced by Geddy Lee, I grew up on these guys, yet never saw them....40 years a Rush fan and I never got to see them. They played only 3 more shows after this one, talk about cutting it close! R.I.P Neil and R.I.P Rush...and Thank you!
I saw last show at the Inglewood Forum and still can't explain myself why I didn't go to the one at Irvine Meadows,I saw them at the Universal amphitheater,Glen Helen wathever was called at the time.
Grace under pressure tour was first time I saw them live.
I am a lucky rocker!
Sadly I never got to see them play this one live. RIP NEIL!!!
I was so lucky to have been at this exact show in Vegas. Clearly remember getting goose-flesh during Alex's solo... Still cannot fathom all that has happened sincethen but it is what it is. RIP Neil, legends live forever.
What a great band.
Phenomenal Job!!! Thanks for posting!!! The 'Timeless Timber' drumset is sounding the best of any set he has had.
The time odd measured time signatures are something I always loved about Rush starting out as a drummer and pianist. i.e. 5:20 . An alternating 6/8. 7/8 feel with "the master" Neil bending and twisting time like like a triple meter or 7/8 is not quite enough. At 41, I've been a Rush fan since like 1989. Saw the "Presto " tour twice. Let me tell you, there isn't a band out there that worked harder and for the duration of time that they did. We miss you Neil! musicians around the world will take the three of their spirits into the future and beyond.
Isn't it actually 13 as in 6-4-3? Alex is playing a steady but repeating 6-4-3 for 13. I guess it all depends on how you count it but to me the repeat happens after the 13th note but I guess it could be 6-7, 6-7, 6-7 too.
Sound better than those Rush professional dvd's...
I agree. And the picture quality is quite excellent too.
The viewer wants to see the band, not the audience, which is something the professionals who release the official DVDs don’t seem to understand. (And yes, the sound quality in this video is far superior to the DVD.)
One thing I've always found with Rush is that their live performances are frequently much better than their recorded material. This and the Album Exit Stage Left clearly show this to be the case.
Really? The R40 Live DVD sounded great! I purchased it, and I have no problems with the audio or picture quality!
This is the R40 DVD.
What’s sad is that Neil was in a lot of pain. He didn’t want to tour but was basically guilted by Alex. Geddy also wanted to tour one last time. Imo they probably told Neil it was the last time and he agreed to a shortened North American tour. The time stand still documentary was hard to watch bc I felt like I didn’t need an apology from Neil. I had always thought of you are hurting and can’t do it anymore don’t. I was born 20 years too late so I didn’t get to see Rush a lot but they were still 3 of the best shows I’ve ever seen. Thanks for bringing so much joy to the world Neil.
The world lost a very important person with the loss of Neil Peart. Not only being one of the top three best drummers, he was also gifted in seeing the world in a way most of us would desire. His writing and lyrics show he was a person of deep thought about the way humanity has become. His concerns of the way a few people dictate what humanity does or isn't doing is troubling. It would have been nice to have had his views in a book. The desire for peace in the world today seems like a hopeless dream. "You will see what man chose one of these days" Look around, you can already see it! Im not trying to be Mr. Negative but, we need to change for the better. Peace and love are better than what we are funding today with our tax dollars.
Posted with the hopeful idea of a better world......
Putting this song on repeat for the rest of my life!
Goose bumps for the ten thousandth time. The boys always delivered live, a winner every time.
They never disappoint. Right on guys. Bravo!
This song is seriously underrated! Neil’s lyrics and Geddy’s and Alex’s playing perfectly capture the image and feeling of storm clouds and the sun peaking through. I wish I could have seen these guys in concert again. Best band ever!
There is nothing left to be said simply one of the best studio to stage execution bands ever
Rush is baddass as hell. I saw them in 80 and in 81. I love those motherfuckers dammit they kick ass. Sorry: this was the first thought rolling off of my head after seeing this video. I will now return to my normally civlized self.
You said what everyone is thinking, don't be sorry. Kick ass words!!!
One of the main reasons I love Rush is that when you go to a concert....no matter what year... They always played the song just like it was recorded on the album! This is a great example. RIP Neil Peart, and thanks for all the years of amazing lyrics like Jacobs Ladder.
I'm glad I got to se them on four different tours: Signals, Hold Your Fire, Test for Echo, Vapor Trails, and Time Machine. Three times in Ohio and last in Florida.
That was 2nd and last Rush concert. 1st was a few days before at MSG in NY. I've always wanted to see my favorite band playing. It was a dream I had for more than 25 years.
I was there for this....one of the best songs I have ever seen performed live by any band.
The finest of all.