Rush 2112 Deluxe Edition Now Available

Rush's all new 5.1 edition of 2112 was released December 18th.  Three versions are available, click to order:
The week after the reissue's release, sales of the new release propelled 2112 back into the Billboard 200 at #138.

All versions include 5.1 surround sound mixes as well as unreleased live tracks – and the super deluxe edition holds the band’s first ever comic book. Three configurations will be available.  The Deluxe Edition can be purchased in CD/DVD and CD/Blu-ray, with the pack including the remastered album and three bonus live tracks. The second disc includes 5.1 surround sound mix and an interactive digital comic book. Original sleeve designer Hugh Syme has created a new cover and the liner notes are accompanied by previously unpublished photos.  The Super Deluxe Edition is sold as a CD/Blu-ray pack, assembled in a hardbound book case including a 40-page comic book which refers to every song on the album.  Click here for a video preview of the new release.

Unreleased bonus live tracks:

Overture (Northland Coliseum, Edmonton, AB – June 25, 1981)
The Temples of Syrinx (Northland Coliseum, Edmonton, AB – June 25, 1981)
A Passage To Bangkok (Manchester Apollo, Manchester, England – June 17, 1980)

Deluxe Edition CD/DVD

Expanded artwork; liner notes by David Fricke; lyrics and unreleased photos.
CD: Digitally remastered plus 3 unreleased bonus live tracks
DVD: 5.1 Surround Sound mix by Richard Chycki in PCM (DVD-Audio players) and 48kHZ / 24-bit Dolby Digital (DVD-Video players); 96kHz / 24-bit PCM Stereo (DVD-Audio players) and 48kHZ / 24-bit Dolby Digital Stereo (DVD-Video players); Digital comic book; gallery: unreleased photos and handwritten lyrics by Neil Peart

Deluxe Edition CD/Blu-ray

Expanded artwork; liner notes by David Fricke; lyrics and unreleased photos.
CD: Digitally remastered plus 3 unreleased bonus live tracks
Blu-Ray: 5.1 Surround Sound mix by Richard Chycki in 96kHz / 24-bit PCM and DTS-HD Master Audio; 96kHz / 24-bit PCM Stereo; Digital comic book; gallery: unreleased photos and handwritten lyrics by Neil Peart

Super Deluxe Edition

Hardbound book case; 40-page comic book by story artist Tom Hodges; 24-page book with expanded artwork, liner notes, lyrics and unreleased photos; new iner notes by David Fricke

CD: Digitally remastered plus 3 unreleased bonus live tracks
Blu-Ray: 5.1 Surround Sound mix by Richard Chycki in 96kHz / 24-bit PCM and DTS-HD Master Audio; 96kHz / 24-bit PCM stereo; digital comic book; gallery of unreleased photos and handwritten lyrics by Neil Peart

iBook

As a companion of the 2112 Deluxe Edition, Rush have released their first ever iBook for 2112. The iBook consists of unpublished pictures, black and white ink art and pencil sketches for every comic book cell, and preview music for the newly remastered Mastered for iTunes (mFit) audio of 2112 with 3 bonus live tracks.

• 40-page comic book by story artist Tom Hodges (“Star Wars -The Clone Wars,” The Simpson’s “Treehouse of Horrors #17″)
• Unpublished pictures
• Black and white ink art and pencil sketches for every comic book cell
• Preview of the remastered audio of 2112
• Expanded artwork, liner notes, lyrics and unreleased photos
• Brand new liner notes by David Fricke, Rolling Stone
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"Clockwork Angels: The Novel" Rare Author VIP Editions Auction Ends Tomorrow

Kevin J. Anderson is auctioning off two rare Author VIP editions of Clockwork Angels.  They are copies #107 and #110 out of 150 created, and were never for sale to the public and are only available from Kevin and Neil.  These have slipcovers, are still sealed in shrink wrap, are signed by both Kevin and Neil Peart, and are coming from Kevin directly.
Kevin is auctioning these copies to raise money for Sean, one of his fans who has Brittle Bone Disease and recently had medical issues.  In addition, his wheelchair equipped van has stopped working, and Kevin wants to raise money to help get Sean a down payment for a van as well as to help with his medical costs.

To bid on the books, visit http://www.onelittlelight.net/auctions/. In addition, if you would like to donate to Sean's cause, Paypal donations are being taken at 1littlelight2112@gmail.com.
UPDATE: Kevin J. Anderson has made the auction more interesting, adding additional items, and extended the auction to 11/27 at 11:59 p.m. MST.
James A. Owen is a writer and illustrator.  His most recent book series is "Here there be Dragons" and he is a close friend to Kevin J. Anderson.  James is illustrating a Neil Peart dragon with 6 arms playing the drums and has the symbols from Clockwork Angels.  13 prints will be made, signed by James and Kevin.  The two winning bids on the Clockwork Angels books will get a print each.  Ten more prints will be available to the first 10 people that pledge to donate at least $100.  Those that want one of those 10 prints, must email 1littlelight2112@gmail.com with Rush Dragon in the title. The final print will be available to the person that pledges the highest amount in a separate auction going live here shortly. It will be hand colored by James A. Owen himself.

There will only be 13 of these, and all will be signed by James and Kevin.  See attached first pencil sketch. - Thanks to Tracy Mangum for the headup!
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Happy Rush Day!

Today is Rush Day, and to celebrate Geddy Lee will be appearing live on the UK's Planet Rock from 9-10am EST.  In addition, Alex Lifeson will be appearing on Eddie Trunk's "Friday Night Rocks" show which starts at 11pm EST on Q104.3 in New York City; Friday's entire show has been dubbed The Holiday Rush and will be dedicated entirely to Rush.

Today the USAToday posted an feature story about Rush Day, including a short interview with Geddy Lee:
As for the International Rush Day Friday, he says, "It sort of took off on Facebook or one of those social-media things, the idea of it being a fan day. We've got amazing fans, and they look for every moment to celebrate their support of us. I am very appreciative of that, I can tell you."
  • UPDATE 2: Click here for Geddy's interview with Planet Rock Radio: Geddy Lee Celebrates Rush Day, Geddy chatted about the reissue of their classic album 2112, entry into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the British tour of "Clockwork Angels" next year and winter safety.- Planet Rock, December 24, 2012
  • UPDATE: Click here for Friday night's "Holiday Rush" special, Eddie Trunk with Mike Portnoy. Alex's interview is halfway through.
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RollingStone.com: "Rush Celebrate '2112' Reissue with iBook Comic"

From today's RollingStone.com:
Recent Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees Rush today released their first-ever iBook for their classic record 2112, complete with previews of the remastered album, a 40-page comic book, sketches for each comic book cell, expanded artwork and new liner notes from Rolling Stone's David Fricke. now you can get an exclusive first look at the comic, written by Tom Hodges. 
The comic is also available in physical form, though the iBook includes previously unpublished photos not available in the physical version. The iBook does not include the album, though it does come with samples of the six original songs and three bonus tracks. You can order the iBook here. - RollingStone.com
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Vote for Rush in Q103.4 New York's "The Year That Rocked" Awards

Q104.3 in New York City have launched their first-annual Q104.3's The Year that Rocked Awards for 2012 and Rush is up for 2 awards - Classic Rock Album of the Year and Best Live Performance!  Voting will be open through the morning of 12/31 and with the winners announced later that day.  VOTE NOW!
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Rush Referenced On Saturday Night Live

During the Weekend Update segment on last night's episode of Saturday Night Live, anchorman Seth Myers announced that Donna Summer, Rush and Public Enemy were all 2013 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees. Showing a photo of the three of them he then joked "'Who are those other two?' said the fans of any one of them." - Thanks to Vincent Sorrentino for the headsup, and RushIsABand for the screencap!
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Neil Peart's "News Weather and Sports" - December 2012

Neil Peart has just updated his website with "Adventures in the Wild West" the latest edition of News, Weather & Sports.  Among other adventures, Neil writes about getting stuck in the Arizona outback, leading to saying some bad words, getting help from other travelers just "because", and eventually "coming out" as a rock star and inviting them to the Rush show the following night.  Check it out now.
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Rolling Stone: "Rockers Who Love 'The Lord of the Rings'"

Celebrating the release of "The Hobbit" in theaters today, Rollingstone.com has posted "Rockers Who Love 'The Lord of the Rings'", which includes the following regarding Rush:
Rush's drummer-lyricist Neil Peart has always been a voracious reader. He must have worked his way towards The Lord of the Rings by the mid-1970s, because 1975's "Rivendell" was named after the great Elven city where Elrond dwelt. The following year, Peart wrote "The Necromancer" – which was Gandalf's name for Sauron in The Hobbit. - RollingStone.com, December 14, 2012
In addition, UltimateClassicRock.com has posted their "Top 10 The Hobbit-Lord of the Rings Songs".
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Rush To Release iBook for 2112

Today Rush announced that as a companion of the 2112 Deluxe Edition, on December 18th they will release their first ever iBook for 2112. The iBook will consist of unpublished pictures, black and white ink art and pencil sketches for every comic book cell, and preview music for the newly remastered Mastered for iTunes (mFit) audio of 2112 with 3 bonus live tracks.

Originally released in 1976, 2112 was the creative and commercial breakthrough album. With lyrics written by Neil Peart, 2112 kicks off with the ambitious seven-suite title track (originally side one), set in a futuristic world run by the “Priests of the Temples of Syrinx” who regulate “every single facet of every life,” which includes books, music, work and play. “2112” conveys the story of humanity’s instinctual, inner need for one’s free will.

iBook content includes:

• 40-page comic book by story artist Tom Hodges (“Star Wars -The Clone Wars,” The Simpson’s “Treehouse of Horrors #17″)
• Unpublished pictures
• Black and white ink art and pencil sketches for every comic book cell
• Preview of the remastered audio of 2112
• Expanded artwork, liner notes, lyrics and unreleased photos
• Brand new liner notes by David Fricke, Rolling Stone
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Rush To Be Inducted Into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame

It's official, the 2013 inductees have been announced and Rush is in! In addition to Rush, the late Donna Summer, Public Enemy, Heart, Randy Newman and Albert King complete the class of 2013 to be inducted this coming April 18th in Los Angeles.
“We are honored to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The 3 of us are especially appreciative of our loyal fans whose support and dedication has gone a long way to making this possible. P.S. And special thanks to our moms for voting 6000 times!” – Alex, Geddy, & Neil, Rush.com, December 11, 2012
"It's a terrific honor and we'll show up smiling," Rush's singer and bassist, Geddy Lee, tells Rolling Stone. "It made my mom happy, so that's worth it." Lee is especially happy for Rush's army of hardcore fans. "It was a cause they championed," he says. "I'm very relieved for them and we share this honor with them, for sure." - RollingStone.com, December 11, 2012
"First of all it's all water under the bridge and it was a ve
ry tiny bridge," the 59-year-old guitarist said in a phone interview from his home in Toronto. "I think our fans are more upset than we were because they feel a real bond to this band and it's been an important part of their lives in some form, and to be snubbed was snubbing them at the same time. ... Perhaps there were times when I thought if this ever happens I'm not going to bother going, or who cares or whatever, but at the end of the day positive karma is an important thing and this is an important thing to a lot of our fans and people we know." - Edmonton Journal, December 12, 2012
Additional News Stories
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Mark Oldman: "Liquid Rush"

Mark Oldman has just published his latest episode of Drink Bravely (no. 70), where he takes the audience back inside Alex Lifeson's personal wine cellar in Toronto, in anticipation of this week's Roll and Roll Hall of Fame announcement. - Thanks to Alf Phillips for the headsup!
Mere days before we learn if legendary rockers RUSH will finally be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Mark provides another exclusive glimpse into the diverse wine cellar of guru guitarist Alex Lifeson. Alex reveals his penchant for Syrah-based reds from Australia and France, Madeira from Portugal, and even Aquavit from Scandinavia.

Featured wines:
  • Penfolds Grange (Australia; 1982, 1983, 1995, 1996, 1998)
  • E. Guigal Côte-Rôtie "La Mouline" (France)
  • E. Guigal Côte-Rôtie "La Landonne" (France; incl. 1978)
  • E. Guigal Côte-Rôtie "La Turque" (France)
  • Clarendon Hills "Astralis" (Australia)
  • Gammal Norrlands Akvavit (Sweden)
  • Madeira - The Royal Wedding of Charles and Diana, 1981 (Island of Madeira, Portugal)
  • Madeira - The Investiture of the Prince of Wales, July, 1969 (Madeira, Portugal)
Song snippets from RUSH at Barclays Center, Brooklyn, New York, October 22, 2012; "The Analog Kid" (from Signals), "2112 - Overture" (2112), "2112 - Grand Finale" (2112).

"Poosh It!"
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Mesa Engineering's Tour Of Alex's Rig With Scott Appleton

Mesa Engineering, makers of the Mesa Boogie Mark V, have posted a new video tour with Alex's guitar tech Scott Appleton. Scott walks us through Alex's amps and effects, explains how he no longer needs an acoustic guitar on stage, and why live guitar cabinets are no longer used on stage. - Thanks to Mark Rosenthal for the headsup!
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Classic Rock's "The Best Of 2012" Now Onsale: Rush On The Cover

The current issue of the UK's Classic Rock magazine features "The Best Of 2012".  The magazine is running with five different cover photos including RUSH, with the headline "Band Of The Year?".  The article is now online , courtesy of John at Cygnus-X1.net.
Led Zeppelin… Rush… the Rolling Stones… Black Country Communion… Rivals Sons… But which is really Band Of The Year?

The greatest albums, bands, gigs, bust-ups and more. This is what rocked our year…

The new issue of Classic Rock is dedicated to The Best Of 2012: the ultimate review of the past 12 months. The Albums Of The Year. The Songs Of The Year. The Stories Of The Year. And, most importantly, The Bands Of The Year!

We’ve produced five different front covers featuring Led Zeppelin, Rush, the Rolling Stones, Black Country Communion and Rival Sons. Each is a worthy candidate for the honour of Band Of The Year. But who will ultimately wear the crown?

Rush – The Canadians have delivered one of the finest albums of their career, but there has been tragedy as well as triumph.
Click here for more. - Thanks to John @ Cygnus-X1.net for the headsup!
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Rush "more dates in the spring and summer of 2013 in North America"

Today Rush posted the following thank you to their website, which includes the first official confirmation that additional North American dates will be added soon for the spring and summer of 2013:
"Thanks to all the fans who came out to see the Clockwork Angels Tour 2012! It was an amazing run – from the Clockwork Angels String Ensemble, the filming in Dallas & Phoenix, and YOU. It proved, once again, how dedicated and loyal the Rush fans are and are such a part of the overall show. Europe, are you ready? Clockwork Angels 2013 in Europe is on sale now. And just because we had such a good time, we are now making plans for more dates in the spring and summer of 2013 in North America – so stay tuned for more announcements. Looking forward to seeing you out on the road again soon!" - Rush.com, December 6, 2012
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Rush For Robe On Clockwork Angels - Tour Lighting Feature

Robe Lighting has published a new news item, Rush For Robe On Clockwork Angels, where they speak with Howard Ungerleider about the lighting used on the current tour.
For this tour, Howard specified Robe’s ROBIN 600 LEDWash for the first time.  Forty-eight LEDWash 600s are an integral part of the show, rigged onto four triangular shaped trusses - two on stage left and two on stage right, flown at different heights - and used for side washes and for beaming into the audience.

He really loves the way that the look of the LEDWash beam can resemble the specific “silky and velvety” textures and light qualities of a PAR 64. “You would never think it was an LED source!” he affirms.

The LEDWash 600s are used heavily during a song called ‘The Garden’ which is highly theatrical. “They are absolutely ideal for this,” states Howard, “Really just like an old style PAR” …but a fraction of the weight and power consumption and much more versatile!
The story also includes this confirmation of the U.S. tour extending into the spring:
The tour continues in the U.S. into Spring 2013 and is then scheduled to visit Europe before returning to North America for the rest of the summer, when it will have been on the road for a year.
For the full story visit robe.cz. - Thanks to Greg Nosek for the headsup!
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Rush's "2112" Heard On "American Dad"

During tonight's episode of "American Dad" ("Error Guitar", Season 9, Ep. 5), Rush's "2112" was heard twice and an apartment number was 2112.

This is the third Rush reference by a Seth MacFarlane property, after Chester The Cheetah and a notation that Rhode Island was 2112 miles from Aspen, both on Family Guy, as well as the recent sighting of a Rush poster in the film "Ted". - Thanks to Dennis Phelps for the headsup!
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Rush's "The Wreckers" Heard On Sunday Night Football

Tonight "The Wreckers" was heard leading into a commercial break during the second half of the Sunday Night football game between the Cowboys and Eagles. - Thanks to everyone for their headsup!
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Jet City Stream Interview With Neil Peart

This morning at 9am Pacific time, Seattle digital radio station Jet City Stream aired a new interview with Neil Peart by Michael Shrieve from his Notes from the Field program.  Michael chats with Neil about music, drums, life, books and more.

The 35 minute interview, which took place backstage at Seattle's Key Arena when Rush played there early last month, is now available on Jet City Stream's Soundcloud; click here to listen.
-Thanks to RushFanForever for the headsup!
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Rush Sighting in Seth MacFarlane's "Ted"

In the film Ted by Seth MacFarlane starring Mark Walberg and Mila Kunis which was released this past June 29th to theaters and is just now being released on home video, at 8:47 into the opening credits, there is a large 2112 starman poster on Mark Walberg's bedroom wall.

This is the second time Seth MacFarlane has inserted a Rush starman poster in one of his properties, the first was when one was seen on the wall of Chester the Cheetah during the Family Guy episode  "Chick Cancer" from 2006.
 - Thanks to Paul Dreyer and Stergios Korfiatis for the headsup!
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Rush Referenced On "The Colbert Report"

On last night's episode of Comedy Central's The Colbert Report, Colbert tells of a 24 year old Canadian "Grinch" who was arrested for harassing children and telling them Santa Claus wasn't real.  (Click here for a video clip).  Colbert goes on to say that due to time constraints there is no Santa Claus in Canada, but that celebrities like Rush pick up the slack for him:
"...but don't worry Canadian kids, you still have a Santa - it's just a Canadian Santa. Every year I believe it rotates to a different Canadian celebrity. Last year it was Nelly Furtado Claus, this year it's Rush. So that jing-jing-jingle you hear on the roof is just Neil Peart (pronounced "Pert") breaking into a 45-minute high hat solo."
- Thanks to RushIsABand for the headsup!
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Sharp Magazine December 2012 - "Rush's Rock Renaissance"

The December issue of Canada's Sharp magazine includes a feature story on Rush titled "Rush's Rock Renaissance: How three nerds from Ontario created a musical empire, and why 2012 was their greatest year yet", and it is available online.
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Rush Inducted into Guitar Center's Historic RockWalk

Rush were inducted into Guitar Center's "RockWalk" at their Hollywood California location on Sunset Boulevard, in an exclusive invite only induction ceremony at noon today, November 20th.  Geddy Lee commented on the induction in a press release announcing the event:
"We are very pleased to have been chosen by our peers and fellow musicians for induction in Guitar Center's RockWalk," said Rush's Geddy Lee.  "It is an honor to have our names added to this illustrious list of great and highly talented musicians."

"Not only is Rush extraordinary as a band, but each member is incredibly talented in their own right," said Dave Weiderman, Chairman of Guitar Center's RockWalk. "With nearly thirty years together, this group has consistently delivered skilled musicianship, experimental-drive and stylistically diverse rock to music fans worldwide. In short – Rush is long-deserving of being honored by Guitar Center's RockWalk." - PR Newswire, November 8, 2012
Related Links:
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Rush "5 Classic Albums" Boxed Set Now Available

As part of their "5 Classic Albums" series which includes bundles by classic rock bands including Styx, KISS, Tom Petty, and others, Mercury records have done it again...another year and another reissue from the Rush back catalog.  Just a year after the release of the newly remastered Rush Sectors boxed sets, Mercury have released another all new low cost Rush boxed set.

Released October 2, Rush 5 Classic Albums is a box of what are arguably 5 of Rush's greatest albums: Fly By Night, 2112, A Farewell To Kings, Moving Pictures and Signals.  You can get all 5 albums for the low price of just $20!  These are the "Rush Remasters" pressings from '97, in standard individual jewelcases, housed in an overall slip-case box.
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Sam Dunn Discusses Rush On This Week's Strombo

Sam Dunn was interviewed on this week's "The Strombo Show" with George Stroumboulopoulos.  The show, which aired on CBC Radio 2 on Sunday night, included a discussion of the impact of RUSH on music and culture from 2:35:00 to 2:45:25.  Click here to hear the episode. - Thanks to RushFanForever for the headsup!
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Rush Miniature Instruments - 15% off for the Holidays

Just in time for the Holiday season, Axe Heaven has revamped their website, including an all new replica of Geddy Lee's '72 Jazz Bass authorized by Fender.  To celebrate, Axe Heaven is offering a 15% discount for Power Windows readers.

Looking for the perfect gift for that special Rush fan (or yourself)?  Check out:

To receive your discount, just enter the coupon code "PWRPROMO15" while checking out at AxeHeaven.com.
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Lorne "Gump" Wheaton's new website now online

Lorne "Gump" Wheaton, drum tech for Neil Peart since 2000, has just launched an all new website at lornewheaton.com. - Thanks to Mark Rosenthal for the headsup!
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Official Rush 2013 Calendar Now Available

The Official 2013 Rush Calendar is now available at  Barnes & Noble.  The calendar features artwork from the Beyond The Lighted Stage documentary film.
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Neil Peart's "News Weather and Sports" - November 2012

Its been just a month since Neil's last update, and he has graciously updated his site with his latest report from the road.  In "Witness To The Fall", Neil chronicles the second leg of the Clockwork Angels tour, including his observations of the U.S. Presidential election, meeting his first drum teacher Don George for the first time in 45 years, as well as how they were affected by hurricane Sandy as well as the untimely death of Ray Danniels' son Shane who passed away of a brain tumor on November 1st.
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"Tom Sawyer" Heard On NBC's "Up All Night"

During last night's episode of "Up All Night" starring Christina Applegate, the Brinkley's flight is canceled and after rushing to the store to buy last minute Thanksgiving dinner supplies, they come home to find Scott and his friends have invaded their house and are doing keg stands while "Tom Sawyer" is blaring out of the stereo. The episode is currently available at NBC.com. - Thanks to Richard Benak for the headsup!
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2112 "Super Deluxe" Edition - Rich Chycki Comments


Rich Chycki shared the following on his blog (November 8, 2012):
"Let's go back in time a bit to late December 2004. I had just finished a 19-hour studio day working with Rush (for the first time) on a Tsunami Relief Charity which was broadcast on CBC in Canada, also late 2004. When I first met with Alex [Lifeson] in early 2005 about the possibility of doing more work together on R30, our first conversation veered off to a coffee laden all out bond-fest about how exciting 2112 would be remixed in 5.1. Our second subject was the mixing of R30 – go figure.

"In a nutshell, this concept has been in stasis for quite some time and it's a pinnacle moment with such a revered artist (and with my gratitude meter completely pinned) that we finally see this project come to light.

"Like the other Rush surround releases to date – Moving Pictures, A Farewell To Kings, Fly By Night, and Signals –  2112 has been remixed at a 96 khz 24 bit high resolution from the original multitrack masters in a 're-creation' direction taking advantage of the 3-dimensional soundscape of surround, rather than a complete re-interpretation of the mix.  I have had quite a few questions about the technical side of the process so time depending, I'll try to get an article put together about it and get it posted here or published."
According to an announcement at Musictap.net, Universal/Mercury will be releasing a "Super Deluxe" CD/Blu-Ray reissue of 2112 this December 18th.

Rich Chycki has confirmed via Twitter, that as a Blu-Ray disk is included, this will include a 5.1 surround sound mix: "Yep, words out. I've been working on the surround remix of Rush's 2112 for months. Queue rear waterfall.”

This release comes just one year after the release of the Sectors boxed set; at the time, it was surprising that the box did NOT include a 5.1 mix of 2112 - now we know why.  One might also assume that 2112 is the first of many 5.1 reissues to be released in the upcoming years... - Thanks to John Patuto at Cygnus-X1.net for the headsup!
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Geddy Lee Interview for Warner Music Poland from May 2012

Warner Music Poland just posted a 21 minute video interview with Geddy Lee recorded last May.  You can watch the video here or on Youtube.
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Fender Squier "Rush Clockwork Angels" Edition Bass

The Rush Backstage Club has just added the Fender Squier "Rush Clockwork Angels" Edition Bass, retailing at $559 US.  This is a customized version of the generic Fender Squier Vintage Jazz Bass which Fender lists on their page for $499.
Get your very own RUSH branded Squire Clockwork Angels Bass. Featuring the Clockwork Angels "Wings" logo on the pick guard and a the "Rush" logo branded into the head of the guitar, this limited edition release is the ultimate addition to your RUSH (or guitar) collection.

Customized Squier Vintage Modified Jazz Bass '77: From the age of Funk and dawn of Punk comes this retro-inspired Vintage Modified Jazz Bass! Features include a gloss Black-finished Agathis body and one-piece maple neck with attractive white binding and white pearl block inlays on the 20-fret maple fingerboard. That soulful sound emanates from a pair of single-coil Duncan Designed? Jazz Bass pickups; other features include chrome hardware and machine heads, black plastic Stratocaster knobs, a three-ply Black/White/Black pickguard, and a four-saddle chrome bridge.
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Rush to film Phoenix & Dallas shows on Clockwork Angels Tour

Rush.com has just posted some big news:
Rush will capture the Clockwork Angels tour by filming in Phoenix and Dallas on Nov 25th and 28th respectively. Be a part of the show – get your tickets here for Phoenix or Dallas.

The shows are being filmed for an upcoming DVD set for release in 2013.
Its no surprise that this tour would be filmed, it was just a question of "where".
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Rush wins Band of the Year and Album of the Year at the 2012 Classic Rock Awards

Classic Rock magazine has announced the winners of the  2012 Classic Rock Awards. Rush walked away with Band of the Year and Album of the Year awards.  As they couldn't attend the ceremony as they were performing in Seattle, they did send out the tweet "Sorry we couldn't be there, playing in Seattle but thanks to @ClassicRockMag readers for the Album of the Year and Band of the Year awards!" For complete details visit ClassicRockMagazine.com.
The winners at the eighth annual Orange Amplification Classic Rock Roll of Honour have been revealed at a gala evening at the Roundhouse in London. The event was hosted by Duff McKagan (Guns n’Roses, Velvet Revolver, Loaded) with Motley Crue bassist Nikki Sixx presenting his Sixx Sense show from the ceremony.

ZZ Top were presented with the coveted Living Legend Award by last year’s winner, Jeff Beck. The Texan three-piece join an exclusive club including Jimmy Page, Alice Cooper and Iggy Pop. Among the other winners were Rush for Album of the Year and Band of the Year, Pink Floyd for Film/DVD of the Year and Reissue of the Year; Status Quo for Classic Album; The Damned for Outstanding Contribution and Rival Sons for Breakthrough. Anthrax were named Metal Gurus and manager Tony Smith was named VIP. The late Jon Lord was given the Tommy Vance Inspiration Award. Lynyrd Skynyrd, who won the Comeback Award, played a 30-minute set for invited guests after a gala dinner.

Classic Rock editor in chief Scott Rowley said: “You would never know it from listening to the radio or watching TV – but while you were all getting excited about Psy and Fun and Nicki Minaj, it’s actually been a great year for new rock music.  We’ve heard brilliant new albums from ZZ Top, Rush, Aerosmith, Kiss, Springsteen, Slash, Lynyrd Skynyrd and Van Halen. Some great new artists are coming in to their own: Rivals Sons, Tracer, Howlin’ Rain, Gary Clark Jr – the list goes on.  Classic Rock is proud to keep on supporting rock music, classic and brand new, and the Roll of Honour has become a office party for the rock industry.”
- Thanks to Frank Ray for the headsup!
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Neil Peart and Kevin J. Anderson's "Drumbeats" Back In Print

Neil Peart's first collaboration with author Kevin J. Anderson, is a short horror story titled "Drumbeats", about drummer on a bicycle trip in Africa who discovers more than he bargained for.
"...Kevin did all the work; I just supplied some African background and French dialogue." - Neil Peart, NeilPeart.net, Fall 2005
Originally published in the long out of print short story collection Shock Rock II in 1994, "Drumbeats" is now available in the new collection Tesseracts Sixteen: Parnassus Unbound, edited by Mark Leslie:
"This anthology features speculative fiction short stories with art, music, literature and culture themes. It is the latest volume of the long-running Tesseracts series and features stories for a new generation of readers. This anthology joins a 26-year legacy which features the writing and editing of more than 250 of Canada's best-known authors." - Thanks to Mark Leslie for the headsup!
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Royal Philharmonic Plays The Music Of Rush - Now Available

The Royal Philharmonic Plays The Music Of Rush, by the world-famous Royal Philharmonic orchestra, is now available (click to purchase).
Tracklist: The Spirit Of Radio, Tom Sawyer, Limelight, Working Man, Fly By Night, 2112 Overture, Closer To The Heart, Subdivisions, Red Barchetta

"From the world-famous orchestra that brought you symphonic interpretations of Queen, Pink Floyd and ABBA comes a brand new set of studio recordings celebrating the music of Canadian Prog Rock legends, Rush!  Includes dramatic reinterpretations of the Rush classics Tom Sawyer, The Spirit Of Radio, Red Barchetta, Limelight and more!  Conducted by BAFTA award winning musician and composer Richard Harvey!"  - Official Press Release
 Bravewords.com has published additional details regarding this release:
Purple Pyramid Records (a division of Cleopatra Records) will release THE ROYAL PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA Plays The Music Of RUSH on November 13. Nearly sixty musicians and thirty vocalists transform nine of Rush’s greatest hits into even more intricate, soaring orchestral works.

The RPO covers the best-known classics, from 'Working Man', the self-titled debut album track that launched Rush’s career in the US to 'Subdivisions' from Signals, the album that proved electronic rock could reside in the top ten. The band’s most successful record, Moving Pictures, is represented by rousing versions of 'Tom Sawyer' and 'Red Barchetta'.

The Canadian trio known as Rush has been recording and touring for more than forty years. Rush has earned 24 gold and 14 platinum (three multi-platinum) records. They are third (behind The Beatles and The Rolling Stones) for the most consecutive gold or platinum studio albums by a rock band, and have sold more than 40 million units worldwide. Rush has won many Juno Awards and was a 1994 inductee to the Canadian Music Hall of Fame. Geddy Lee, Alex Lifeson, and Neil Peart are consistently acknowledged as some of the most proficient musicians in music today.

The RPO, formed in 1946 and based in London, has been called The Nation’s Favourite Orchestra. It has had internationally known maestros like Andre Previn and Louis Clark, and has toured the world. The RPO is a best-selling and adventurous recording entity as well. In 1969, it recorded a concerto for DEEP PURPLE, composed by the band’s organist Jon Lord. It earned a top ten U.S. single in 1982 with Hooked on Classics. Over the years, RPO has orchestrally arranged PINK FLOYD, OASIS, QUEEN, R.E.M., MADONNA and ABBA.

Special guest guitarists include Steve Rothery of MARILLION on 'Working Man' and Adrian Smith of IRON MAIDEN on 'Red Barchetta. The Windrush Choir provides backing vocals and solos.

The Orchestra was recorded at the legendary Abbey Road Studios in London, conducted by BAFTA Award-winning musician and composer Richard Harvey. Harvey performed with the prog rock group Gryphon and as an accomplished multi-instrumentalist (specializing in mediaeval and Renaissance periods), worked with many folk and rock musicians such as Richard and Linda Thompson, Kate Bush, and Sweet. He has toured and recorded with John Williams, and has performed and composed film/TV soundtracks for more than thirty years. The album was produced by James Graydon and Richard Cottle, who also arranged all the music.

Listen to '2112 Overture' at this location
- Thanks to Ed at RushIsABand for the headsup!
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"In The Studio" with Redbeard, Signals 30th Anniversary Special Now Online

Tonight "In The Studio" with Redbeard will be airing a special celebrating the 30th anniversary of Signals, released September 9, 1982.  Both Alex Lifeson and Neil Peart will be part of the radio show as they discuss the album.   The complete interview is now available at  InTheStudio.net. - Thanks to Cygnus-X1.net for the headsup!
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A Rush of Covers from Kiev

UPDATE: George and Timur have put together a fantastic video of their cover of "By-Tor and the Snowdog" which you can view here.

Here is a treat for all you Rush fans out there.  I received an email from George Oransky from Kiev.  George is a life long Rush fan, who tells me he is "a lonely studio player, not such a performer".  He also said that he used to play Rush songs "a time long ago" with some friends who shared an affinity for a band that was virtually unknown in Kiev at the time.

George has been recording Rush songs in his home studio and posting them to his website.  What makes them interesting is that his 11 year old son Timur provides the vocals and the combination is quite stunning.  Be sure to check their cover of By-Tor and the Snowdog, you'll thank me later.
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Clockwork Angels Billboard Charting Hitsory

RUSH's Clockwork Angels debuted at #2 on the Top 200 with 103,000 sold the first week.  In terms of actual detailed numbers, the morning of June 20th SoundScan reported the following: Total: 104,707; LP (Vinyl): 2,361; CD: 72,007; Digital: 30,339. Meanwhile up in the Great White North, Clockwork Angels debuted at #1 with 19,625 copies sold; LP (Vinyl): 367; CD: 14,311; Digital: 4,947.
After eight weeks, Clockwork Angels rose back to #13 on the Billboard Top 200, thanks to a $0.99 MP3 album sale at Amazon.com during week 7; the album previously rested at #70 on the chart, and dropped like a rock all the way back down to #81 for week 9.

Clockwork Angels dropped out of the Billboard Top 200 after spending 20 weeks on the chart.  Weeks 19 and 20 it held on at #163 but finally dropped off after week 20.  For the current chart info visit Billboard.com - November 10, 2012
"At No. 2 on the Billboard 200, rock band Rush clocks its best sales week in 10 years as "Clockwork Angels" debuts with 103,000. The group last sold more when 2002's "Vapor Trails" bowed at No. 6 with 110,000. "Clockwork Angels" is Rush's second album to hit No. 2, following 1993's "Counterparts." A No. 1 album continues to elude the act" - Billboard.com, June 20, 2012
"Legendary rock band Rush has made a remarkable U.S. chart debut with their 20th studio album "CLOCKWORK ANGELS." The renowned trio's first new collection of original material in over five years and their first studio release via Anthem/Roadrunner Records has entered the SoundScan/Billboard 200 at #2 with sales in excess of 104,000 units, matching the highest chart debut of their illustrious 38-year career.  "CLOCKWORK ANGELS" has also debuted at #1 in the band's native Canada. In other international news, the album has already achieved the band's highest chart debuts in over a decade from Japan - #2, Norway - #10, Germany, Holland - #11, and Switzerland - #21. In addition to the commercial success, "CLOCKWORK ANGELS" has also received a raft of critical acclaim, including Rolling Stone and USA Today who heralded the release as "an ambitious, sophisticated effort by a band that sounds surprisingly vital after 20 studio albums." In the UK -- where the album was also released as an exclusive non-chart eligible fan pack format which included a 132 page booklet covering the entire history of the band -- "CLOCKWORK ANGELS" garnered a 5 out of 5 review in The Sun, Britain's largest newspaper. Had the 40,000 fanpacks sold been chart eligible, the album would have debuted at #1 in the UK as well." - MarketWatch.com, June 20, 2012
"The legendary Toronto prog-rockers' 20th studio album debuted at No. 1 with sales of 20,000, according to data provided by Nielsen SoundScan.  'Angels' is the Holy Trinity’s first studio album since 'Snakes & Arrows,' which went gold in Canada back in 2007." - Toronto Sun, June 20, 2012
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Alex Lifeson Tops CBC's "25 Greatest Canadian Guitar Players"

Alex Lifeson tops CBC's list of the "25 Greatest Canadian Guitar Players" ever:
"The most impressive thing about Rush guitarist Lifeson may be his ability to keep up with his virtuoso bandmates Neil Peart and Geddy Lee. For over 4 decades, Lifeson has been seamlessly transitioning from complicated rhythm patterns to searing solos. His influence on shredders is undeniable, though his own playing borrows from jazz, reggae and funk. Guitar nerds love him for heady prog finger exercises like '2112' and 'YYZ.' Everyone else loves him for timeless rock riffs like 'Working Man' and 'The Spirit of Radio.'" - CBC, November 7, 2012 
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Rush Covered On Nektar's "A Spoonful Of Time"

As announced back in December of last year, the long awaited collection of covers by veteran English progressive rock band Nektar is set for release in North America November 27th (preorder here).  Included in this collection of classic prog rock tracks is a cover of Rush's "The Spirit Of Radio". 
  • The first ever covers album from Prog Rock legends, Nektar, finds the band joined by an incredible gathering of musical heroes from a wide variety of genres!
  • Artful, energetic twists on The Doors’ “Riders On The Storm,” Pink Floyd’s “Wish You Were Here,” Rush’s “Sprit Of The Radio,” Roxy Music’s “Out Of The Blue” and more!
  • Features performances by members of Yes, King Crimson, Symphony X, Opeth, Marillion, Asia, The Moody Blues, Dream Theater, Tangerine Dream, and more!
Although the Rush cover was originally rumored to include ELP's Keith Emerson on keys, the guest musician is Marillion's Mark Kelly. For more info visit Nektarsmusic.com. - Thanks to Ton Jansens for the headsup!
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"Clockwork Angels: The Novel" - Kevin J. Anderson

RockCellarMagazine.com has published a new interview with author Kevin J. Anderson where he discusses the novel Clockwork Angels: The Novel.

Clockwork Angels: The Novel, by Kevin J. Anderson, from a story and lyrics by Neil Peart, is now available.  The novel is available in hardback from ECW Press, and on audiobook available from Brilliance Audio - read by Neil Peart.  The Novel premiered at #18 on the New York Times bestseller list.

Here is a collection of related news and interviews:
"In an innovative combination of music and literature, the new album Clockwork Angels by legendary rock band Rush has been converted into a full-length 'steampunk' science fiction novel by international bestselling SF author Kevin J. Anderson and Rush drummer and lyricist Neil Peart.

"The music throughout the Clockwork Angels album-the band's 20th studio album-forms the backbone of a colorful adventure story, which is now fully realized in Clockwork Angels: The Novel (ECW Press, hardcover, September 2012). The story tells of a young man caught between the grandiose forces of order and chaos. On a quest to follow his dreams, he travels across a lavish and colorful world of steampunk and alchemy, with lost cities, pirates, anarchists, exotic carnivals, airships and steam engines, and a rigid Watchmaker who imposes precision on every aspect of daily life.

"...'For something like 20 years, Kevin and I discussed working on a project together that would marry music, lyrics, and prose fiction,' he says. 'The right idea and timing eluded us for a long time, but at last, both converged perfectly.' Clockwork Angels: The Novel seemed a natural.

"Peart approached Anderson with the idea several years ago, when Rush was in the early stages of creating the album. As the lyrics and music were completed, the two brainstormed the story, characters, setting, adventures, and ideas, sometimes with a flurry of a dozen e-mails per day. The artist Hugh Syme-who created eight illustrations for the CD booklet and original works for the novel-also provided inspiration.

"'This is a dream project for me,' Anderson says. 'I have always envisioned epic stories when listening to Rush music, and now working with Neil, it's possible to translate those stories to the printed page. Clockwork Angels: The Novel turned out even better than we had hoped. I think it's one of my very best books.'

"'As my 38 years with Rush will attest, I very much enjoy collaboration with like-minded artists,' Peart says. 'Working up this story with Kevin was one of the easiest, yet most satisfying projects I have ever shared-easiest, because we almost always simply agreed with each other's ideas, and most satisfying because I am so proud of the result.'" - ECW Press
For more on Kevin J. Anderson, visit his entry on this website's "Rush Inspired Literature, Film, And Pop Culture References" page here. You might also be interested in Neil's introduction to Landscapes, Anderson's short story collection. Lastly, check out Anderson's blog post from 2010 telling of his spending time with Neil during Rush's visit to Colorado on the Time Machine Tour.
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Macrograph's "Snow Dog" Now Available

Snow Dog, the third release by digital artist Graham Whieldon is now available.  The digital print is 41" x 22" and is a limited edition of 100.  For more information visit Macrographs.com. - Thanks to Ed at RushIsABand for the headsup!
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Neil Peart Clockwork Angels Collector’s Edition Stick Six-Pack

A new six-pack collection of Neil Peart Clockwork Angels Collector's Edition drumsticks will be hitting stores soon.  According to the press release:
ProMark is excited to announce the release of the highly anticipated Neil Peart Clockwork Angels Collector’s Edition Stick Six-Pack. The one-of-a-kind collection commemorates RUSH’s current worldwide tour.

The top selling ProMark Shira Kashi™ oak drumsticks have been given the golden touch, autographed by drummer Neil Peart and copper-ink branded with six RUSH tour logos. Each brick contains six pairs of sticks and Collector’s Edition labels to satisfy any die-hard RUSH fan.

Dealers now have a chance to get their hands on these legendary collections, however, only a limited amount will be produced. The offer is valid through December 2012.

“The Neil Peart Model has been a consistent top seller for ProMark, and the demand to commemorate the current tour from our dealer and consumer base has been exceptional,” said Dick Markus, ProMark Product Manager.
- Thanks to Mark Rosenthal for the headsup!
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Neil Peart's "Taking Center Stage" Instructional Video 50% Off Promotion

Hudson Music is holding a special promotion until Wednesday at Midnight, where you can get a 50% discount on the purchase of Neil Peart's latest instructional video Taking Center Stage: A Lifetime of Live Performance. This promotion relates to the Instant Download version of the video which costs just $20 with the discount.  This is a group participation discount. Full details on the promotion and ordering instructions can be found here. - Thanks to Joe Bergamini for the headsup!
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Professional Lighting and Production Fall 2012 - Interview with Howard Ungerleider

The fall issue of Professional Lighting and Production includes an interview with Rush's lighting engineer Howard Ungerleider. The full issue of the magazine is now online. - Thanks to RushFanForever for the headsup!
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RUSH Nominated for Induction Into The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame - Alex Lifeson Comments

UPDATE: In an interview with the New Jersey Star-Ledger, Geddy lee comments on the Hall of Fame nomination:
"It’s an honor, and any time somebody wants to honor you, you should be gracious. But it’s never been something that’s been super-important to us. Awards are outside of you. We’re aware that it means so much to the fans, and since it does, it has to mean something to me. I almost feel like they’re vindicated more than we are.
"It’s hard to put into words what it means to us that our fans have been so passionate. It makes us want to play all the better. They’ve invested so much — we try very hard to make the shows worth it for them." - Geddy Lee
In a new interview with NorthJersey.com, Alex Lifeson comments on Rush's nomination for induction into the Rock Hall of Fame:
"I'm really happy for the Rush fans who feel that it is really important, and I hope we're inducted for their sake. Personally it never really mattered to me, but at the same time it's nice to be nominated.  The acknowledgement we got from the Canadian government, and by extension Canadians, is very dear to us. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is more a popularity contest." - Alex Lifeson
It's official, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame has announced 15 artists nominated for induction into in 2013, including RUSH!   Rush has been eligible for induction since 1999, 25 years after the release of their first record in the US, but this is their first nomination.
"Nominees for The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Class of 2013 have been announced. Rush, Deep Purple, Heart, Procol Harum, The Paul Butterfield Blues Band and Randy Newman are among the names being submitted to voters for next year's induction honors.  Also on the list are Donna Summer, Chic, Joan Jett, Albert King, Kraftwerk, The Meters, N.W.A. and Public Enemy.  Other than Heart, Joan Jett and Chic, this is the first time any of the other artists has been nominated.  In order to be eligible for induction, an artist had to release their first record at least 25 years prior. The ballots will now be sent out to members of the music industry with the results announced in early December.  The 28th annual Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will be held in at the Nokia Theater in Los Angeles on April 18th, 2013." RockHall.com
The band has already issued the following statement on Rush.com:
“We are honored to be among the nominees for this year’s Rock ‘N Roll Hall of Fame. We are especially thrilled for the many, many dedicated RUSH fans to whom this nomination is so very important.” – Geddy Lee, Alex Lifeson, Neil Peart
Being nominated is just the first step, however.  We won't know until April if they will be among the 2013 inductees, but you can help.  The Rock Hall has also announced "for the first time ever, fans get to vote alongside the artists, historians and music industry insiders of the Rock Hall voting body. From now until December 5th, you can vote for the nominees you'd like to see inducted. Pick up to five acts – the top five vote-getters will comprise a 'fan's ballot' that will count as one of the more than 600 ballots that determine the Class of 2013. The results will be announced in mid-December." Click here to vote.

With cumulative worldwide sales of over 35 million, Rush were inducted into the Juno Awards Hall of Fame in 1994, received the esteemed Order of Canada in 1997, were given their own star on the Canadian Walk of Fame on May 27th, 1999 and received a star on the Hollywood Walk Of Fame on June 25th, 2010.  This is their first nomination for the US Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame.
- Thanks to Squintyt4e for the headsup!

UPDATE/RELATED NEWS:
Click here for more on RUSH and the Rock Hall Hall Of Fame
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Contest to celebrate the release of Joe Bergamini's "Neil Peart: Taking Center Stage" Book

Thanks to everyone who entered the contest celebrating the release of Joe Bergamini's new book, Taking Center Stage which was officially released yesterday.  The questions were a bit tricky - in all, only 20% of the entries received were correct!  Most frequently, people forgot to take into account the bass drum on the electronic kit while the second biggest error were entries that gave the color of Neil's Roll The Bones kit, when we were asking for the color of the Counterparts kit!  The winners are:

  • Ray Kolek - One autographed Bubbas coffee mug
  • Martin Wade - One autographed copy of Far & Away
  • Nathan Wlazelek - One signed closing statement Neil wrote for the Taking Center Stage DVD, printed on parchment paper, framed
  • Charles Friedel - One large autographed poster of the Anatomy of a Drum Solo DVD cover
  • Christopher Muller - One large autographed poster of the Anatomy of a Drum Solo DVD cover

Here's a message from Joe where he reviews the correct answers:
Thanks to everyone who entered the contest and I hope you all enjoy the book. Here are the correct answers to the questions:

1. What percussion instrument did Neil use only on the Counterparts tour, and then remove from his kit (The acoustic instrument; not including digital samples of its sound)?
Answer: A tambourine

2. How many bass drums did Neil use on the Roll the Bones tour?
Answer: 2 (Although there's only 1 on the front kit, the rear kit had one as well!) I know this may have seemed like a trick question because I wrote about Neil going from two bass drums on the front kit to one, but from the diagram you can clearly see there was a total of two bass drums: one for the front kit and one for the rear. It seems that some folks answered "3," counting the Gong Bass Drum, so we are accepting that answer, although despite its name, drummers consider this basically a huge tom, and wouldn't count it as a bass drum. But because of this confusion, we accepted 2 or 3 as correct answers here.

3. What was the color of Neil's drumset for the Counterparts tour?
Answer: Dark Cherry or Black Cherry are both correct answers.

Congratulations to the winners!
Joe Bergamini
Thanks again to Joe Bergamini and Hudson Music for putting on this fantastic contest, and thanks to all those who entered!
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New Neil Peart Book: "Taking Center Stage: A Lifetime of Live Performance" by Joe Bergamini

Now available, Joe Bergamini, who worked with Neil on the Taking Center Stage DVD, has written a companion book with Neil's supervision officially released online October 15th.  At 208 pages, this full color coffee table book covers Neil's live performances with Rush documenting every tour since 1974, including drum transcriptions, dozens of photos, magazine covers, rare advertisements, etc.  From the press release:
Hudson Music has announced the upcoming release of a new book about drumming legend Neil Peart, written by well-known drummer and writer Joe Bergamini. Neil Peart not only wrote the foreword for the book, but also supervised the project and provided additional factual editing. This book is the most complete retrospective on Neil’s career available in print today. Originally conceived as a companion to the groundbreaking 2011 three-disc DVD set of the same name, this book combines astonishingly detailed musical transcriptions, historical writing, instructional text, and a beautiful collection of photographs to create a book that every drummer and every fan of Neil and Rush will want to add to their collection.

At the heart of the book are note-for-note musical transcriptions of 17 songs that are included on the Taking Center Stage DVD. These transcriptions are exclusive to this book, since they are taken from the performances on the DVD, documenting how Neil currently approaches the songs. Songs include, “Tom Sawyer,” “YYZ,” “The Spirit of Radio,” “Free Will,” “Subdivisions,” “Time Stand Still,” “Marathon,”  “La Villa Strangiato,” “The Trees,” “Caravan,” “BU2B,” “Far Cry,” and many others.

The book is divided into chapters corresponding to each and every Rush tour from the time Neil joined the band in 1975, up to the present. Each of these chapters contains extensive text discussing the musical approach of the band at the time, the construction of the drum parts, and Neil’s setup. Accompanying this are exquisitely detailed diagrams of each of Neil’s drum sets, produced after extensive research into the exact instruments that were used on every tour. Tying everything together are stunning photos taken over the past 30 years and color reproductions of just about every drum company advertisement that has featured Neil during his career.

“Working with Neil on the Taking Center Stage DVD was a dream come true, and this book, to me, is the true completion of the project,” says author (and Hudson Music Senior Drum Editor) Joe Bergamini. “I always wanted to do a coffee-table style book that would not only include drum transcriptions, but also include colorful photos, interesting text, and historical magazine covers and ads that documented Neil’s career. I designed the book with all Rush fans in mind (not just drummers), and I think they will enjoy reading and looking it at as much as I enjoyed working on it.”

Includes:
• Fifteen chapters devoted to Neil’s musical approach and equipment on every Rush tour since 1975.
• Note-for-note drum transcriptions of 17 songs taken from the Taking Center Stage: A Lifetime of Live Performance DVD, including Rush classics like “Tom Sawyer,” “YYZ,” “The Spirit of Radio,” “Free Will,” “Subdivisions,” “Time Stand Still,” “Marathon,”  “La Villa Strangiato,” and many others.
• Detailed text from both Neil and author Joe Bergamini, explaining his equipment and his approach to the songs.
• Exclusive photos, some never before published, showing Neil and his drums in vibrant detail.
• Detailed diagrams and explanations of all of Neil’s drum sets.
• Other interesting images, such as Neil’s Modern Drummer® magazine covers and print advertisements from DW, Tama, Sabian, Ludwig, Pro-Mark, and Zildjian.
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Neil Peart's "News Weather and Sports" - October 2012

Neil Peart has just published his latest "News Weather and Sports" update, with "The Better Angels".  Neil shares with us the details of the motorcycle tours spent on the first leg of the Clockwork Angels tour, the setlist variations of the tour and the addition of the "Clockwork Angels String Ensemble".
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Interview: Rush's Alex Lifeson and Geddy Lee - Premiere Guitar November 2012

The November issue of Premiere Guitar magazine features Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson on the cover (see those little guys at the bottom?), and includes an extensive interview with Geddy and Alex where they talk about the recording of Clockwork Angels, the writing process, and their gear.  And the best part?  PG has made the full interview available on their website. - Thanks to RushFanForever for the headsup!
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"Rush As Food" - The Cookbook

Back in July, Toronto chef Matt Kantor hosted the "Rush As Food" benefit dinner in Toronto with proceeds going to Andrew MacNaughtan's "Art Gives Hope" charity.  Kantor has just published a cookbook of the event, Rush As Food - The Cookbook, currently available exclusively on iTunes:
"Rush as Food: The cookbook" documents the dinner series by Matt Kantor, who deconstructed nine rush songs into food for a charity event.  This event was held in Toronto in July of 2012, proceeds of this dinner to benefit "Art Gives Hope", the WorldVision project stated by Andrew MacNaughtan, long time Rush photographer who passed away earlier in the year.  Each dish contains background, recipes, photographs and in some cases videos and interactive components, making this a must have cookbook for any home enthusiast or die-hard Rush fan."
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The Andrew MacNaughtan Art Store - First Editions While Supplies Last

"Before his death in January 2012, MacNaughtan had been the principal photographer for rock icons Rush, photographing all their tours, promotional materials and album art.  A long and storied relationship that began in the early 80's, Andrew a life long Rush fan, approached the band with a unique request, could he photograph them for his fledgling Music Magazine and Fan Club? For some reason the band saw something in young Andrew and slowly allowed him to be immersed in their world, first as an assistant in their offices then as the band assistant on the road. Eventually they allowed him to take that picture - and the rest is history.

"Andrew never lost the joy of being a Rush Fan, he was always excited to hear new music or see the latest concert and the fact that he got to take part in the creative process was a privilege he never took for granted.

"This was the inspiration for The Andrew MacNaughtan Art Store; to give back to the fans and to share his experiences with those he knew would truly appreciate it. He enjoyed meeting other fans who shared in his excitement, and he was extremely touched with the amazing reaction to his work.
So although difficult, with full cooperation of the band and Andrew's estate, we are pleased to be able to continue sharing his work. We will continue the important work of his foundation "Art Gives Hope" and look forward to expanding on his vision and goals.

"A small inventory of Andrew's work with Rush will be made available. Although it's still a difficult time for all involved, everyone felt sharing these prints was the best way to continue to honor Andrew's work. There is a limited supply of these first edition, autographed prints so check them out now while they last." - AndrewMacNaughtan.net
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