Hemispheres is truly an all out assault on the senses. It challenges you to absorb the multi-layered progressions with wild swings of emotions and cerebral lyrics. It is truly mesmerizing.
I Adore this band. Hey, these are people who can do this LIVE, without backing tracks, auto-tune, etc,. Effing talented people who worked really, really Hard to get to this level of proficiency.
You FINALLY did it Ruben! This is without a doubt one of Rush's greatest masterpieces and Hemispheres is imho their greatest album (which makes it one of the greatest albums of all time as far as I'm concerned). I will suggest once again a reaction video to 'The Weapon' - I have no doubt you will love it (especially the hilarious intro)! - /watch?v=11mYrDIDDHE
Just started watching his channel, has he done Fountain of Lamneth or Necromancer yet? those two are probably in my top3 favorites of the epic tracks along with this one. Its a hard choice but Lamneth has to be my fav.
Yes Ruben, you got it right on the lyrics. My ALL TIME FAVORITE long form Rush song! This is a masterpiece! Glad you got to check it out Ruben. I spent hours and hours back in 83 trying to learn this piece in it's intirety on bass ( I was 15). While my friends listened to Duran Duran , I cut my teeth on Rush.🤘🏼🤘🏼🤘🏼🤘🏼🤘🏼🤘🏼🤘🏼🤘🏼🤘🏼🤘🏼🤘🏼🤘🏼🤘🏼🤘🏼
When I first heard this I was completely speechless. I didn't know what to say. My first experience was All the Worlds a Stage, I was gobsmacked. the I heard Moving pictures and once again knocked off my chair. The a musician friend play this for me. I just sat there staring. I'd only been playing drums for about a year and a half. I didn't know you could play like that. I've never looked back. It took me a long time to learn that LP. Cheers brother,
Hemispheres is an amazing album, but it was also a turning point for the band, after which they decided, "ENOUGH!" One song on the album, "La Villa Strangiato" became a staple of their live shows, but recording it took an incredibly long time, because they had to record it in sections. Eventually (after the record was finished,) they were able to play it all the way through. To this day, it's considered one of the more difficult Rush songs to play. Mike Portnoy (Dream Theater) said if you can play THAT, you've really accomplished something. Even if you don't review it, be sure to listen to it. It's an incredible instrumental that will take you on a journey, and some guitarists have called the solo in that song "the perfect guitar solo." The way the solo builds is incredible, and I recall Kirk Hammet of Metallica saying it was one of his favorite guitar solos of all time.
I can't begin to tell you how huge this album was in 1978 for those in the know! Nothing like it at the time, a masterpiece. The fact it resonates today is a testament to the genius of this album! Put that in context of 40 years ago. C'mon, to us fans who were few at the time, this was a life changing masterpiece!
I agree completely you need to listen to it a few more times to fully evaluate the embodiment of this epic story. Then give us a follow up reaction please. I’ll eagerly await your thoughts. Like, fine wine it must be savored.
I’ve listened to the entire RUSH catalog, hundreds of times over the last 40 years & it never gets boring or repetitive!! Rush’s catalog covers so much awesome material that I very rarely listen to anything else. But that’s just me!
This is awesome! As a kid, Moving Pictures was one of the first albums I listened to all the way through, thanks to my dad. That was the 90s but wow to this day, it's interesting to read about ppls experiences with them throughout the years.
In your Rush journey Ruben you'll notice that they won't necessarily push the boundaries of progressive rock, but they push the boundaries of Rush. They sound wildly different in later years, but they always progressed, kind of like their own mini-genre!
But through every phase and era, even though different and experimental, it sounded like Rush. Very hard to pull off, but they did it for 40 years. Amazing.
Is this the Omar we all know and loved in the front row? Sat by you many a shows my friend. I didn't see you at the final show in LA? Were you there? Meet a buddy road trip to the last four starting in Vegas. I don't think I saw you at any of them??? Hope you're doing well if you're who I think you are :-) Kurt in Chicago
@@Snowdogkh Snowdog! I am not that Omar, but sounds like that guy had some fun! I went to the Atlanta show - Geddy's voice that night was on point. The show of course was EPIC.
This one holds a special place in my heart. This was the first album to come out after I'd become a fan of the band and the subsequent tour was my first Rush show.
I was 16 when this came out, and after 2112 and Caress of Steel I was thrilled to hear another 'opera.' This was the style of music I looked to Rush to provide ... something I could listen to with my eyes closed and see the story unfold. I enjoyed all of their music over the years, initiating all 3 of my sons into their sound, but it was something special for me when their final album, Clockwork Angels, returned to this type of storytelling. It was a cherry on top of a wonderfully satisfying sundae. I am so enjoying watching you awaken to Rush - - your expressions remind me of my own response to them. Please keep exploring, and allowing me to relive the ride!!
Likewise. Growing up in a rural area smoking pot, riding dirt bikes, swimming in rice wells, having a different girlfriend every month and listening to this. Good times! I went to this concert as well
It has been wonderful watching your journey into the music of Rush. Welcome to the Rush Fan Club my friend, it doesn't matter when you arrive, only that you do. This was always one of my favorite albums. In my opinion Cygnus X1 parts 1 and 2 are about the human experience and the need for balance between all things - logical thought and emotion, science and nature, etcetera. Another GREAT song by Rush is the Fountain of Lamneth; to me the song is about growing up from the innocence of a child to a wise old man. I look forward to watching you enjoy more Rush, it's like watching myself through a time machine back to when I was just getting into the band.
This was the first studio album by Rush that I ever listened to and owned. First heard it about 11-12 years after it came out so maybe 1989-90? I was 15 at the time. I had heard Tom Sawyer before and had listened to their live album from 1988 prior to hearing this. It was so different. I couldn’t understand how it was the same band as the 80s songs. That really intrigued me and soon I owned their entire catalogue. I always come back to this one though. It has the unique flavor of their prog style and hints of the radio friendly style that was to come. Keep listening to them. You’ll notice that as they change style they still sound like Rush... like no one else can.
Agree - - When Test For Echo came out, I first heard one of the new songs on the radio. I wasn't aware a new Rush album was out (kind of had a disconnect at the time), but immediately knew it was Rush just by the sound, although it was different than earlier work.
Got to hear “BTW” several times before RUSH retired in 2015. Saw it 7 times on the “Snakes & Arrows “ tour & at several shows on the last tour, “R40”!! It’s an amazing song but it IS Rush, so it’s all amazing to this fan. 😃
Yes Ruben, as a life-long Rush fan (who bought 2112 when it was their newest album) I highly recommend this song, "Between the Wheels" is an excellent suggestion. One of my favorites!
I knew that this would be a serious undertaking to take in 1 shot, but it's the only way to give a proper, unbiased reaction, which is what your fans want. I know that it seems like forever for Alex to get into a guitar solo, but when he does the sounds that he makes is just so haunting! No other guitarist comes close to so many of his unique riffs & sounds. As with all Rush I find that the more you hear a song, the more that your brain hears. Subtle little notes, a drum sound. a chime, a guitar echo, to bass, etc. The way that they end a chapter to the next note of the next chapter is a great hook for them. I knew that the day that I bought this LP & placed it on my turntable with 2 other Rush super fans at my house, we didn't know what to expect. We were pleasantly surprised. I will also agree that as I've said before, you really need to do The Necromancer. Since there's no great live version out there, I believe that there's an animated version with lyrics kind of like Cygnus X-1. Thanks for your reactions! Bill
Always great to see someone hear this song for the first time as I did almost 40 years ago when I slipped that record out of the sleeve and lowered the needle on it. A true classic in every sense of the word.
I have probably listened to this only about 15 times in the last month LOL. Hundreds of times since I first heard it in 1978. It is about the Logical side of the brain / humanity vs the Emotional side of the brain / humanity. This is all about the constant battle within each of us to find the balance of the mind vs the heart. You need to give a listen to Headlong Flight from their last album
their songs are like watching a long emotional, intricate movie with a profound ending and you sit in the theatre afterword just staring at the screen for minutes with your mouth open and not having words to describe it.....
Anything live you can find throughout their career you will not be disappointed. Try Clockwork Angels tour, first time they played with other musicians onstage, fantastic
Tree's is short but sweet,from the same album. Great guitar piece in the middle and the lyric's. Ruben,Trees was the first song that got me into Rush! Worth a review!
The true expression of the this long 'piece' (for me) after that previous on-slot attack of what ONLY Rush did with THEIR sound is the last acoustic finally, a summation of the previous story/lyrics, 'we can walk our road together if our goals are all the same, we can run alone and free if we pursue a different aim, let the truth of love be lighted . . . with the heart and mind united in a single, perfect, sphere. Wow. So eloquently said, so poignant in its meaning.
Hard song to listen to and I believe they say it was their most difficult to record musically but my all time favorite Rush song! and IMO Geddy's all around best recorded bass tone.
Rubin, takes 3-4 listens to decipher the parts, and acquire the feel, because it is a “purists” prog song! Great progressive music like this requires a special listener! The average joe just can’t relate, as they are looking for the pop music vibe!
The production on Hemispheres is SUPERB--the mix is pristine--Geddy's vocals are perfectly audible and all instruments are at ideal relative levels. Alex's melodies, arpeggios and double stops on this track are, to my ears, unmatched anywhere in the prog rock canon. His arpeggio that begins at 4:45 and persists through the song constitutes, BY FAR, my favorite guitar arpeggio of all time.
It's definitely a lot to take in with just your first listen. The music drives the vision, feelings of the lyrics. After a few listens you begin to understand why there are all the time changes. To see how much they've changed over the decades. I say give Vapor Trails or Snakes and Arrows a look. Just a thought? Anyway, always a joy! Peace!
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I would have been around 19 when this album came out, and I can recall being in the passenger seat of my buddy‘s car on the 30 minute drive home from our favorite record store. I remember peeling the plastic off the album, opening it up, hungrily reading the liner notes, itching to get home and put it on the turntable. And then being blown away by how Rush has upped their game yet again. :) Rueben, if/when you do give this another listen, I’d suggest listening to Cygnus Book 1 again first, then go right into Hemispheres. You’ll hear echos in Hemispheres from Cygnus 1 that will help tie it all together. And as for a future suggestion, try Far Cry from Snakes and Arrows. It’s a simpler, shorter song, but a good example of how much energy they still brought later in their career.
Man, for those who loves rock, you simply can't die without listen to Rush. Is one of the biggest bands that still exists in this planet (may be in others). Unfortunately they came to Brazil just 2 times but fortunately I attended to both of than, of course. Greettings from Brazil my friend. PS: Of course, I love Metallica, Iron and the others greats as well...
Thank you for this video! Ged's bass line is just sick through this whole song. Saw your Metallica shirt, watch Rush Beyond the Lighted Stage. Kirk Hamett is interviewed and raves over Alex's guitar part in La Villa Strangiato. Very underrated guitar player. By the way I was 4 years old. Lol
I've been listening to rush for 35+ years. These are simply life tools..the lyrics of Neil Peart have reduced categories of information into simple truths and simple sayings. Example, "we can walk a road together if our goals are the same...we can run alone and free if we pursue a different dream". Show me don't tell me. So so so many others. This story also spans across 2 other albums.
This album...and especially what you listened to, was probably their best musicianship ever. So much going on, so passionate, in perfectly timed and syncopated perfection. I get emotional too listening to it....in fact while you were tearing up...so was I. Yeah. Rush does that to me!
"We will call you Cynus the God of balance you shall BE!! "..........One of the greates musical moments of all time ....with that chorused suspended guitar chord........followed by the joyous sounding guitar chord progression....
Awesomeness to the maximinity even ,My best friends words after enjoying rush hemispheres live what a night that was changed my life.Thanks for the memory
Thank you Ruben. The fact that you can’t get it in the one listen means you actually do get it ! Wonderful to see your reaction. Thanks for listening to this. Try “By Tor and the Snowdog”. “ Fountain of Lambeth”. “Necromancer”. Older songs but no less wonderful. Thank you once again 😀🏴😀
Was super excited to watch you react to this song! A loss for words seems to be the common reaction after listening for the first time. There is a lot to take in on one listen. I've been playing this song most of my life and am still hearing new things that I missed in the past. The Hemispheres album is made up of 4 amazing songs. Hope you are able to react to the others sometime. Hard to believe that the album is 40 years old!
@@shtroizn Yup, watched it back when he posted it. When he listens to Circumstance, I suspect he will want to continue with side 2 of the album and experience it again 🙂
I found this cassette tape..in 9th grade. Put it on and said Who is this..and have been life long fan. Have seen then 4 times. Top of my all time favorite bands.
Yes... someone else suggested and I will too. You need to react to a synth era Rush song. Between The Wheels would be ideal. Please do it. Its a shorter song, unfortunately, but your reaction would be amazing.
Yes, I've suggested it to almost all of his videos ;) Rush is great no matter what, but you can't truly appreciate how great they are until you hear them actually progress and mature through the years. That synth era, perhaps, has some of Alex's toughest yet most melodic playing (speaking as a 26 year Rush-cover guitarist) that flies totally under the radar - his solo in Red Sector A alone, is award-worthy!
Cygnus X-1 is also a real black hole, and one of the first discovered, I found that out through this song, lol. Hemispheres is my favorite Rush album, and Hemispheres is one of my favorite Rush songs, and yes the parts you heard sounding like their going in and out during the slow section, is actually parts of Cygnus X-1: Book I. Ruben, your reactions to Rush are great to watch.
Just gotta say I love how loud your channel is. It's nice to be able to crank the volume up past the point of comfort and into the territory hearing-damage. Thanks for the freedom!
VI. The Sphere A Kind of Dream We can walk our road together If our goals are all the same We can run alone and free If we pursue a different aim Let the truth of Love be lighted Let the love of truth shine clear Sensibility Armed with sense and liberty With the Heart and Mind united In a single perfect sphere >>>I love this part...it can be about a human's experience, or humanity at large...
Overload indeed. At least 10 listens are needed for it to make sense. One listen isn’t nearly enough. Don’t read the lyrics or watch videos- just enjoy the audio in it’s purity. It’s great watching you experience this music - You’re a real member of the Rush family, it just took you a bit longer to get here!
I was 16 when I first heard Hemispheres. Like 2112 before it, it made quite an impression on me. I understood Hemisphere's main themes though I had no real background in Greek mythology at the time. Rush made me think more about these things and influenced what I read in high school and beyond. The more cerebral (no pun intended) songs by Rush were always my favorites even when Moving Pictures came out. Caress of Steel was another world in a way that really took you to a place reminiscent of Tolkien's epics.
Hot damn!! Great reaction...great music...great story...This is the best of the best for many of us hardcore Rush fans. The theme is essentially keeping a balance between work and play , to put it simply.
You obviously appreciate the 70's era of Rush. Such long and progressive masterpieces were created in this early phase of their career. I hope you continue the journey into the next phase, the 80's when they started to incorporate more keyboards and sounds. I think the music is just as good, it's still sounds like Rush, but it's a new sound. They said they pushed the boundaries of long epic, songs and it was a new challenge to incorporate the sounds and influences of the time in the 80's, but the amazing thing is they still kept complex arrangements, thought provoking lyrics, and their unique sound that is Rush. Enjoy.
Hey man. Enjoying the journey of a new Rush fan. It brings back some of the excitement from when I was first discovering them so long ago. After all the songs you have covered, I highly recommend The Trees. It's a shorter song, but definitely classic RUSH.
I saw them on their 2112 album tour back in 1976 or 1977? and became an instant fan. Their six pre-1980 albums are their Golden Age IMO. Listen to Caress of Steel, A Farewell to Kings, 2112, and Hemispheres in that order all at one go -- takes you from the Dark Ages, into Renaissance, to the Space Age and beyond into the depths of the mind. Use a a fine set of headphones or a pair of vintage stereo speakers like Infinity Quantum line Source. Also, add some mushroom tea in that cup of yours while listening if you want to understand their songs instantaneously on the fly. :) I'm glad the younger kids are starting to discover them.
You can listen this song for the rest of your life, and it just gets better. You listen something else for a year and think this is the shit and get back to this, and you realize that this is a better song.
Rush Necromancer. ...probably their most over looked and underrated songs....they were so ahead of their time....it’s a kind of a mini hemispheres but a little more aggressive and intense....Dream theater has played it live on occasion...I just played it...40 some years later ..it still gives me goose bumps...I was 11 when I first played it...it’s aged like a fine wine
Imagine how you were when you were younger. How hard would it have been to listen to this whole song? For me it wasn't too bad because I'd already had exposure to Rush and their longer songs, but for a new fan this was a tough one to get through. I had to tell some people to go back and listen to the previous albums to really put this all into context musically for them. I also had been listening to classical music for some years so longer pieces that had repeat sections and variations were not so odd sounding as compared to a 2 minute and 30 second song on the radio. Early Rush is played more than later Rush, but I still like it all. I'm sure I'd not have stayed as interested in them musically had they not gone through their explorations. So many good songs remain to hear. Keep at it @Ruben Buijs :)
Ruben, it's great to see your reaction when hearing these for the first time... It's like reliving my own first time back on release day... You really must do The Necromancer and/or The Fountain of Lamneth from Caress of Steel... Rush on my friend 😉 😉
You appreciate Rush more and more over a lifetime of listening.
Hemispheres is truly an all out assault on the senses. It challenges you to absorb the multi-layered progressions with wild swings of emotions and cerebral lyrics. It is truly mesmerizing.
The Most Epic combination of Bass, Drums, Guitar and Lyrics ever conceived...Classical music included....
I Adore this band. Hey, these are people who can do this LIVE, without backing tracks, auto-tune, etc,. Effing talented people who worked really, really Hard to get to this level of proficiency.
'Hemispheres' is a masterpiece! Incredible musicianship and creativity! TIMELESS!
Absolutely, RUSH forever!
My favourite album. Get goosebumps every time I listen to it.
You FINALLY did it Ruben! This is without a doubt one of Rush's greatest masterpieces and Hemispheres is imho their greatest album (which makes it one of the greatest albums of all time as far as I'm concerned). I will suggest once again a reaction video to 'The Weapon' - I have no doubt you will love it (especially the hilarious intro)! - /watch?v=11mYrDIDDHE
Agree this is my fave
Just started watching his channel, has he done Fountain of Lamneth or Necromancer yet? those two are probably in my top3 favorites of the epic tracks along with this one. Its a hard choice but Lamneth has to be my fav.
My fave as well. This album hooked me.
Hemispheres is my fav too. Actually I think they peaked with Farewell, Hemispheres, and Perm.Waves.
Hemispheres and Farewell to Kings my two favs.
This is Rush at their most creative IMHO a masterpiece !!!
I believe this is the last album Neil played Slingerland drums on...
Hemispheres is an absolute masterpiece! It one of my favorite Rush tracks to jam the bass line as I'm a bass player of 34 years.
The whole album is perfection.
Yes Ruben, you got it right on the lyrics. My ALL TIME FAVORITE long form Rush song! This is a masterpiece! Glad you got to check it out Ruben.
I spent hours and hours back in 83 trying to learn this piece in it's intirety on bass ( I was 15). While my friends listened to Duran Duran , I cut my teeth on Rush.🤘🏼🤘🏼🤘🏼🤘🏼🤘🏼🤘🏼🤘🏼🤘🏼🤘🏼🤘🏼🤘🏼🤘🏼🤘🏼🤘🏼
When I first heard this I was completely speechless. I didn't know what to say. My first experience was All the Worlds a Stage, I was gobsmacked. the I heard Moving pictures and once again knocked off my chair. The a musician friend play this for me. I just sat there staring. I'd only been playing drums for about a year and a half. I didn't know you could play like that. I've never looked back. It took me a long time to learn that LP. Cheers brother,
Hemispheres is an amazing album, but it was also a turning point for the band, after which they decided, "ENOUGH!" One song on the album, "La Villa Strangiato" became a staple of their live shows, but recording it took an incredibly long time, because they had to record it in sections. Eventually (after the record was finished,) they were able to play it all the way through. To this day, it's considered one of the more difficult Rush songs to play. Mike Portnoy (Dream Theater) said if you can play THAT, you've really accomplished something. Even if you don't review it, be sure to listen to it. It's an incredible instrumental that will take you on a journey, and some guitarists have called the solo in that song "the perfect guitar solo." The way the solo builds is incredible, and I recall Kirk Hammet of Metallica saying it was one of his favorite guitar solos of all time.
I can't begin to tell you how huge this album was in 1978 for those in the know! Nothing like it at the time, a masterpiece. The fact it resonates today is a testament to the genius of this album! Put that in context of 40 years ago. C'mon, to us fans who were few at the time, this was a life changing masterpiece!
...Oh and most of us were stoned on grass too! LOL
I was only 11 at the time was it really huge, that’s very to know 🙏
I agree completely you need to listen to it a few more times to fully evaluate the embodiment of this epic story. Then give us a follow up reaction please. I’ll eagerly await your thoughts. Like, fine wine it must be savored.
Well said Leida! This stellar piece just gets better and better with repeated listens. Cheers!
I’ve listened to the entire RUSH catalog, hundreds of times over the last 40 years & it never gets boring or repetitive!! Rush’s catalog covers so much awesome material that I very rarely listen to anything else. But that’s just me!
This is awesome! As a kid, Moving Pictures was one of the first albums I listened to all the way through, thanks to my dad. That was the 90s but wow to this day, it's interesting to read about ppls experiences with them throughout the years.
In your Rush journey Ruben you'll notice that they won't necessarily push the boundaries of progressive rock, but they push the boundaries of Rush. They sound wildly different in later years, but they always progressed, kind of like their own mini-genre!
But through every phase and era, even though different and experimental, it sounded like Rush. Very hard to pull off, but they did it for 40 years. Amazing.
Is this the Omar we all know and loved in the front row? Sat by you many a shows my friend. I didn't see you at the final show in LA? Were you there? Meet a buddy road trip to the last four starting in Vegas. I don't think I saw you at any of them???
Hope you're doing well if you're who I think you are :-)
Kurt in Chicago
@@Snowdogkh Snowdog! I am not that Omar, but sounds like that guy had some fun! I went to the Atlanta show - Geddy's voice that night was on point. The show of course was EPIC.
Neil’s drumming is so good on this.
Matthew Kelley the hihat work is insane
Neil's drumming is good on everything.
And Alex’s guitar and Geddy’s bass and vocals are flawless.
They’re so tight on this song
This one holds a special place in my heart. This was the first album to come out after I'd become a fan of the band and the subsequent tour was my first Rush show.
same here Deeside Leasure Centre - in NWales - saw them aslo outside backstage when they arrived for the show
Music in feeds your heart and soul... Music by Rush feeds your, heart, soul And brain.
I was 16 when this came out, and after 2112 and Caress of Steel I was thrilled to hear another 'opera.' This was the style of music I looked to Rush to provide ... something I could listen to with my eyes closed and see the story unfold. I enjoyed all of their music over the years, initiating all 3 of my sons into their sound, but it was something special for me when their final album, Clockwork Angels, returned to this type of storytelling. It was a cherry on top of a wonderfully satisfying sundae.
I am so enjoying watching you awaken to Rush - - your expressions remind me of my own response to them. Please keep exploring, and allowing me to relive the ride!!
Favorite Rush album. The bass work is second to none on the whole thing
Circumstances is just sick AF!
I was 14 in 1978 and clearly recall being blown away by this EPIC masterpiece. . . Hard to believe that was 40 years ago.
I was 15 ditto
13
Likewise. Growing up in a rural area smoking pot, riding dirt bikes, swimming in rice wells, having a different girlfriend every month and listening to this. Good times!
I went to this concert as well
It has been wonderful watching your journey into the music of Rush. Welcome to the Rush Fan Club my friend, it doesn't matter when you arrive, only that you do. This was always one of my favorite albums. In my opinion Cygnus X1 parts 1 and 2 are about the human experience and the need for balance between all things - logical thought and emotion, science and nature, etcetera. Another GREAT song by Rush is the Fountain of Lamneth; to me the song is about growing up from the innocence of a child to a wise old man. I look forward to watching you enjoy more Rush, it's like watching myself through a time machine back to when I was just getting into the band.
And THAT is why I love RUSH
I love when you hear his accent on “doubt and fear”
This was the first studio album by Rush that I ever listened to and owned. First heard it about 11-12 years after it came out so maybe 1989-90? I was 15 at the time. I had heard Tom Sawyer before and had listened to their live album from 1988 prior to hearing this. It was so different. I couldn’t understand how it was the same band as the 80s songs. That really intrigued me and soon I owned their entire catalogue. I always come back to this one though. It has the unique flavor of their prog style and hints of the radio friendly style that was to come. Keep listening to them. You’ll notice that as they change style they still sound like Rush... like no one else can.
Agree - - When Test For Echo came out, I first heard one of the new songs on the radio. I wasn't aware a new Rush album was out (kind of had a disconnect at the time), but immediately knew it was Rush just by the sound, although it was different than earlier work.
Well said
It's like they pasted and blended a dozen 'pop' melodies inside Book II and LA Villa
I’m still taking it in after over 30 years
Just thank you. The whole journey of Rush will be epic. I'm enjoying it very much. Suggestion; Between the Wheels (Studio version)
I would rather suggest the life version, cuz the lightshow of Between the Wheels is awesome too!
Got to hear “BTW” several times before RUSH retired in 2015. Saw it 7 times on the “Snakes & Arrows “ tour & at several shows on the last tour, “R40”!! It’s an amazing song but it IS Rush, so it’s all amazing to this fan. 😃
Yes Ruben, as a life-long Rush fan (who bought 2112 when it was their newest album) I highly recommend this song, "Between the Wheels" is an excellent suggestion. One of my favorites!
Great song! Those words and that song ... :)
I loved this -thank you for brightening my evening!!! 🌛
I knew that this would be a serious undertaking to take in 1 shot, but it's the only way to give a proper, unbiased reaction, which is what your fans want. I know that it seems like forever for Alex to get into a guitar solo, but when he does the sounds that he makes is just so haunting! No other guitarist comes close to so many of his unique riffs & sounds. As with all Rush I find that the more you hear a song, the more that your brain hears. Subtle little notes, a drum sound. a chime, a guitar echo, to bass, etc.
The way that they end a chapter to the next note of the next chapter is a great hook for them. I knew that the day that I bought this LP & placed it on my turntable with 2 other Rush super fans at my house, we didn't know what to expect. We were pleasantly surprised.
I will also agree that as I've said before, you really need to do The Necromancer. Since there's no great live version out there, I believe that there's an animated version with lyrics kind of like Cygnus X-1. Thanks for your reactions! Bill
This album and Moving Pictures are absolutely flawless from start to finish. True masterpieces. And this song is one of their very best.
Don't forget most of Rush's other albums
MASTERPIECE BEYOND COMPARE! MY EFFING GOD... WHAT IS THIS?!
Man, youre lucky to have the lyrics right there......we had to listen over and over to figure that shit out!
I played this album over and over again and again until the grooves were worn out
Always great to see someone hear this song for the first time as I did almost 40 years ago when I slipped that record out of the sleeve and lowered the needle on it. A true classic in every sense of the word.
I have probably listened to this only about 15 times in the last month LOL. Hundreds of times since I first heard it in 1978.
It is about the Logical side of the brain / humanity vs the Emotional side of the brain / humanity.
This is all about the constant battle within each of us to find the balance of the mind vs the heart.
You need to give a listen to Headlong Flight from their last album
Hey Jeff, have you seen this video? Still kickin is a Rush fan too.. ua-cam.com/video/esFmUaz55VA/v-deo.html
@@mattmascarelli Yes this is slick video. And a SICK song. Love Headlong Flight. This is one of their best songs ever
their songs are like watching a long emotional, intricate movie with a profound ending and you sit in the theatre afterword just staring at the screen for minutes with your mouth open and not having words to describe it.....
I became a Rush freak in 1980 and Hemispheres did not disappoint!!
Anything live you can find throughout their career you will not be disappointed. Try Clockwork Angels tour, first time they played with other musicians onstage, fantastic
The Masterpiece Of RUSH!!
In one word Epic!!!
One word...Agreed!
Word.....RUSH!! 😃😃
Tree's is short but sweet,from the same album. Great guitar piece in the middle and the lyric's. Ruben,Trees was the first song that got me into Rush! Worth a review!
The true expression of the this long 'piece' (for me) after that previous on-slot attack of what ONLY Rush did with THEIR sound is the last acoustic finally, a summation of the previous story/lyrics, 'we can walk our road together if our goals are all the same, we can run alone and free if we pursue a different aim, let the truth of love be lighted . . . with the heart and mind united in a single, perfect, sphere. Wow. So eloquently said, so poignant in its meaning.
I need a vacation he says. Ha ha.
You need to do the rest of the album!
Hard song to listen to and I believe they say it was their most difficult to record musically but my all time favorite Rush song! and IMO Geddy's all around best recorded bass tone.
Rubin, takes 3-4 listens to decipher the parts, and acquire the feel, because it is a “purists” prog song! Great progressive music like this requires a special listener! The average joe just can’t relate, as they are looking for the pop music vibe!
David Roberts ..No...you are saying - that I am saying, but I’m not saying what you say I am!
The production on Hemispheres is SUPERB--the mix is pristine--Geddy's vocals are perfectly audible and all instruments are at ideal relative levels. Alex's melodies, arpeggios and double stops on this track are, to my ears, unmatched anywhere in the prog rock canon. His arpeggio that begins at 4:45 and persists through the song constitutes, BY FAR, my favorite guitar arpeggio of all time.
This is definetly my favorite Rush song!!
It's definitely a lot to take in with just your first listen. The music drives the vision, feelings of the lyrics. After a few listens you begin to understand why there are all the time changes.
To see how much they've changed over the decades. I say give Vapor Trails or Snakes and Arrows a look. Just a thought?
Anyway, always a joy!
Peace!
Please make sure the Vapor Trails listen is the remixed version.
I would like to thank my patrons for supporting me:
Matthew Richards Music , Christian Simon, Mikael Mäkitalo, Erik Revier, Matt Hansen,Marcin Hostynski, Trattwald, Shady_gamer, Lorenzo Molino, Giancarlo Oprins, Kameron Griffis, Iver Halse, Stavor, Shnoogleheimer, Pete Howard,
Weverton Oliveira, Joshua Straight, Franco Schröter, Lars Comstock, Tim Meynberg, Christian Kerlen, Ryan Brooks and John Horn
I would have been around 19 when this album came out, and I can recall being in the passenger seat of my buddy‘s car on the 30 minute drive home from our favorite record store. I remember peeling the plastic off the album, opening it up, hungrily reading the liner notes, itching to get home and put it on the turntable. And then being blown away by how Rush has upped their game yet again. :) Rueben, if/when you do give this another listen, I’d suggest listening to Cygnus Book 1 again first, then go right into Hemispheres. You’ll hear echos in Hemispheres from Cygnus 1 that will help tie it all together. And as for a future suggestion, try Far Cry from Snakes and Arrows. It’s a simpler, shorter song, but a good example of how much energy they still brought later in their career.
Man, for those who loves rock, you simply can't die without listen to Rush. Is one of the biggest bands that still exists in this planet (may be in others).
Unfortunately they came to Brazil just 2 times but fortunately I attended to both of than, of course.
Greettings from Brazil my friend.
PS: Of course, I love Metallica, Iron and the others greats as well...
Thank you for this video! Ged's bass line is just sick through this whole song. Saw your Metallica shirt, watch Rush Beyond the Lighted Stage. Kirk Hamett is interviewed and raves over Alex's guitar part in La Villa Strangiato. Very underrated guitar player. By the way I was 4 years old. Lol
At 17:01, I feel the same...I start crying. It's too overwhelming.
I've been listening to rush for 35+ years. These are simply life tools..the lyrics of Neil Peart have reduced categories of information into simple truths and simple sayings. Example, "we can walk a road together if our goals are the same...we can run alone and free if we pursue a different dream".
Show me don't tell me.
So so so many others. This story also spans across 2 other albums.
The masterpiece.
This album...and especially what you listened to, was probably their best musicianship ever. So much going on, so passionate, in perfectly timed and syncopated perfection. I get emotional too listening to it....in fact while you were tearing up...so was I. Yeah. Rush does that to me!
Having listened to this hundreds of times, I'm really enjoying this...
Expect a great evening of exciting musik, from this double album.Thanx , Ruben for having a nostalgic feeling.
"We will call you Cynus the God of balance you shall BE!! "..........One of the greates musical moments of all time ....with that chorused suspended guitar chord........followed by the joyous sounding guitar chord progression....
Awesomeness to the maximinity even ,My best friends words after enjoying rush hemispheres live what a night that was changed my life.Thanks for the memory
Thank you Ruben. The fact that you can’t get it in the one listen means you actually do get it ! Wonderful to see your reaction. Thanks for listening to this.
Try “By Tor and the Snowdog”. “ Fountain of Lambeth”. “Necromancer”.
Older songs but no less wonderful.
Thank you once again 😀🏴😀
This song is the pinnacle of '70s Rush musicianship.
Neil, the eternal poet and timekeeper of my generation........Lord we miss you, sir
Was super excited to watch you react to this song! A loss for words seems to be the common reaction after listening for the first time. There is a lot to take in on one listen. I've been playing this song most of my life and am still hearing new things that I missed in the past. The Hemispheres album is made up of 4 amazing songs. Hope you are able to react to the others sometime. Hard to believe that the album is 40 years old!
He already reacted to La Villa Strangiato. Check it out
@@shtroizn Yup, watched it back when he posted it. When he listens to Circumstance, I suspect he will want to continue with side 2 of the album and experience it again 🙂
@@trailchasing5081 No doubt. The trees is another great song. This whole album is sheer perfection.
@@shtroizn Completely agree. A perfect album in my eyes. Definitely would be one of my desert island albums.
One of my Favorite tunes is Circumstances. Add the Trees Ruben and you will get your fix
I found this cassette tape..in 9th grade. Put it on and said Who is this..and have been life long fan. Have seen then 4 times.
Top of my all time favorite bands.
Yes... someone else suggested and I will too. You need to react to a synth era Rush song. Between The Wheels would be ideal. Please do it. Its a shorter song, unfortunately, but your reaction would be amazing.
GREAT suggestion! BTW is such a fantastic song, on so many levels!
That and Red Sector A.
Yes, I've suggested it to almost all of his videos ;) Rush is great no matter what, but you can't truly appreciate how great they are until you hear them actually progress and mature through the years. That synth era, perhaps, has some of Alex's toughest yet most melodic playing (speaking as a 26 year Rush-cover guitarist) that flies totally under the radar - his solo in Red Sector A alone, is award-worthy!
The RED album was sadly so often underestimated-it's a great one too!
Alright Ruben, it's time to stop mucking around and react to Rush's "The Camera Eye" off of Moving Pictures. Get on it!
Camera eye is incredible.
Been waiting all week for this one let's go !!!! : D
Cygnus X-1 is also a real black hole, and one of the first discovered, I found that out through this song, lol. Hemispheres is my favorite Rush album, and Hemispheres is one of my favorite Rush songs, and yes the parts you heard sounding like their going in and out during the slow section, is actually parts of Cygnus X-1: Book I. Ruben, your reactions to Rush are great to watch.
Just gotta say I love how loud your channel is. It's nice to be able to crank the volume up past the point of comfort and into the territory hearing-damage. Thanks for the freedom!
VI. The Sphere A Kind of Dream
We can walk our road together
If our goals are all the same
We can run alone and free
If we pursue a different aim
Let the truth of Love be lighted
Let the love of truth shine clear
Sensibility
Armed with sense and liberty
With the Heart and Mind united
In a single perfect sphere
>>>I love this part...it can be about a human's experience, or humanity at large...
Overload indeed. At least 10 listens are needed for it to make sense. One listen isn’t nearly enough. Don’t read the lyrics or watch videos- just enjoy the audio in it’s purity.
It’s great watching you experience this music - You’re a real member of the Rush family, it just took you a bit longer to get here!
I was 16 when I first heard Hemispheres. Like 2112 before it, it made quite an impression on me. I understood Hemisphere's main themes though I had no real background in Greek mythology at the time. Rush made me think more about these things and influenced what I read in high school and beyond. The more cerebral (no pun intended) songs by Rush were always my favorites even when Moving Pictures came out. Caress of Steel was another world in a way that really took you to a place reminiscent of Tolkien's epics.
Hot damn!! Great reaction...great music...great story...This is the best of the best for many of us hardcore Rush fans. The theme is essentially keeping a balance between work and play , to put it simply.
Very cool album.... Probably my favorite..... Really cool music....
i love it when that choked tripelet thing moves from the triangle to the hats
You obviously appreciate the 70's era of Rush. Such long and progressive masterpieces were created in this early phase of their career. I hope you continue the journey into the next phase, the 80's when they started to incorporate more keyboards and sounds. I think the music is just as good, it's still sounds like Rush, but it's a new sound. They said they pushed the boundaries of long epic, songs and it was a new challenge to incorporate the sounds and influences of the time in the 80's, but the amazing thing is they still kept complex arrangements, thought provoking lyrics, and their unique sound that is Rush. Enjoy.
Throw off those chains of reason and your prison disappears
Love watching your channel, hello from the u.s.!
Hey man. Enjoying the journey of a new Rush fan. It brings back some of the excitement from when I was first discovering them so long ago.
After all the songs you have covered, I highly recommend The Trees. It's a shorter song, but definitely classic RUSH.
I saw them on their 2112 album tour back in 1976 or 1977? and became an instant fan. Their six pre-1980 albums are their Golden Age IMO. Listen to Caress of Steel, A Farewell to Kings, 2112, and Hemispheres in that order all at one go -- takes you from the Dark Ages, into Renaissance, to the Space Age and beyond into the depths of the mind. Use a a fine set of headphones or a pair of vintage stereo speakers like Infinity Quantum line Source. Also, add some mushroom tea in that cup of yours while listening if you want to understand their songs instantaneously on the fly. :)
I'm glad the younger kids are starting to discover them.
You can listen this song for the rest of your life, and it just gets better. You listen something else for a year and think this is the shit and get back to this, and you realize that this is a better song.
Rush - Natural Science
I use that p/g logo bc Grace Under Pressure is an awesome album and it's also my initials
Another classic.
Your Rush reactions are spot on!
Started buying their albums in the mid 70's. Such an amazing band. Canada's best!
It took me years and many, many listens to digest and appreciate Hemispheres. I had to delve deep to expand from the radio tracks.
Rush Necromancer. ...probably their most over looked and underrated songs....they were so ahead of their time....it’s a kind of a mini hemispheres but a little more aggressive and intense....Dream theater has played it live on occasion...I just played it...40 some years later ..it still gives me goose bumps...I was 11 when I first played it...it’s aged like a fine wine
Best album since they retired annuel salute , they can come back with more potential.I can feel the Temple Of Xeres prophesy.
Imagine how you were when you were younger. How hard would it have been to listen to this whole song? For me it wasn't too bad because I'd already had exposure to Rush and their longer songs, but for a new fan this was a tough one to get through. I had to tell some people to go back and listen to the previous albums to really put this all into context musically for them.
I also had been listening to classical music for some years so longer pieces that had repeat sections and variations were not so odd sounding as compared to a 2 minute and 30 second song on the radio.
Early Rush is played more than later Rush, but I still like it all. I'm sure I'd not have stayed as interested in them musically had they not gone through their explorations.
So many good songs remain to hear. Keep at it @Ruben Buijs :)
I love Rush
SAW THEM WITH KISS IN 1975 WENT TO SEE KISS STAYED WITH THE RUSH
Ruben, it's great to see your reaction when hearing these for the first time... It's like reliving my own first time back on release day... You really must do The Necromancer and/or The Fountain of Lamneth from Caress of Steel... Rush on my friend 😉 😉
And side 2 please!
THE ABSOLUTE BEST EVER
Hemispheres represents, in my opinion, RUSH's artistic peak
"Losing It" from the 1982 album "Signals"
ua-cam.com/video/scFykNMqaws/v-deo.html
A wonderfully sad song by Rush
The guy is an astronaut who passed through the black hole, Cygnus X1 and landed amongst the gods of Olympus
Rush, the masters of pregnant pauses - keeping you on tenderhooks every step of the way - awesome