Rush News

Envy of None - now available

"Envy of None", the new album by Alex Lifeson, Andy Curran, Alf Annibalini and vocalist Maiah Wynne, is now available.  Click here to order.

“Andy approached me about four years ago, shortly after the last Rush tour, about adding some guitar on some of the things he was doing. I did that. A few months later, he sent another one, and did that. Then we started getting more serious, and then we found a great singer, Maiah Wynne. So we’ve basically done an album’s worth of material. I’m really excited about that.” - Alex Lifeson, GuitarWorld.com

"I'm someone who has a lot of ideas and I love this project because it was challenging to make the guitar sound like it wasn't a guitar. That was a cool concept for me. I'm sure that some Rush fans might be disappointed - maybe not - but if they're expecting me to be Alex Lifeson of Rush rather than Alex Lifeson, songwriter, then they might be disappointed." - Alex Lifeson, Toronto Sun, April 3, 2022

Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson Remember Taylor Hawkins: ‘A True Artist to His Very Core’

Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson remembered Taylor Hawkins in a pair of poignant social media posts Saturday, hours after the Foo Fighters drummer’s death at the age of 50.

Hawkins and Dave Grohl together delivered the induction speech when the prog-rock legends were welcomed into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2013, and the Foo Fighters duo then performed “2112” alongside Rush during the Rock Hall ceremony.

“We are so very shocked and saddened to hear the devastating news of the sudden passing of our musical brother Taylor Hawkins,” Lee and Lifeson wrote Saturday.

“He was such an incredibly positive source of music, energy and love, and a true artist to his very core…there are simply no words to adequately express just how much he will be missed by all – including Alex, myself and the entire Rush family. Our hearts, love and sympathy go out to Taylor’s family as well the Grohls, and the extended Foos family…”

In a separate post on his personal Instagram account, Lee wrote about the time he joined the Foo Fighters onstage during a concert in Rush’s hometown in Toronto. - Rollingstone.com, March 27, 2022

Geddy Lee guest appearing on CBC's Murdoch Mysteries Monday, March 21

Yesterday CBC's Murdoch Mysteries announced that Geddy Lee will be appearing on next week's episode, on Monday, March 21st, on CBC and CBC Gem.  Their Twitter feed included a teaser video which includes a short clip of Geddy in a speaking role. 

Alex Lifeson auctioning off over 60 vintage guitars and other memoribiliia May 20-22

Alex Lifeson is auctioning off "over 60 vintage guitars and other career memorabilia", including his white Gibson ES-355TD, his Hentor Sportscaster, and more, with Julian's Auctions May 20th, 21st and 22nd, live from New York City's Hard Rock Cafe and online at JuliensAuctions.com.  

"Part of our “Music Icons” auction happening on May 20th, 21st and 22nd, “Property From The Archives of Alex Lifeson” will feature over 60 vintage guitars and other career memorabilia from the personal collection Alex Lifeson, the legendary Rock and Roll Hall of Fame guitarist and co-founder of Rush. One of the greatest rock groups of all time, selling more than 40 million records worldwide during the band’s four-decade history" 

Visit Julian's Auctions for details.

The world premiere of the official music video for “YYZ”

Check out the world premiere of the official music video for “YYZ” from Moving Pictures created by Fantoons, and be sure to stay tuned through the very end! 

 

Rush guitarist Alex Lifeson has a new band. Meet their talented singer - AI.com

Today Alex Lifeson's new band Envy of None launched their new single, "Look Inside" which you can view below.  In addition, AI.com published a fantastic new interview with singer Maiah Wynne which you can check out here.

Grapes for Humanity’s ‘Gift of Sight’ RUSH Limited-Edition Curated Deborah Samuel Collection Sale

Grapes for Humanity is pleased to announce the ‘Gift of Sight’ online sale of three alternate front album covers, three alternate back album covers, and twelve alternate interior album art photographs of both Alex Lifeson and Geddy Lee taken from the original ‘Moving Pictures’ photo shoot. Funds raised will support the Genius 100 Himalayan Cataract Project. The collection will offered to the public starting on December 16th, 2021. Click here for details.

Rush Pinball coming via Stern Pinball

Stern Pinball, Inc. proudly announces a new line of pinball machines celebrating the iconic Canadian progressive rock band, Rush. Rush pinball machines are available in Pro, Premium, and Limited Edition (LE) models.

Rush first burst onto the scene when its song, Working Man, crossed the pirate radio airwaves from Toronto, Canada to Cleveland, Ohio and then onto the rest of North America and the world. Their magnum opus, 2112, represents one of progressive rock’s greatest works. Rush’s music remains in constant rotation to this day. Absolutely uncompromising in every conceivable way, the band featured bassist, keyboardist, and lead vocalist Geddy Lee, guitarist Alex Lifeson, and the late drummer, percussionist, and lyricist Neil Peart.

Stern’s Rush pinball machines, reflect the energy, excitement, and experience of a live Rush concert. In this epic music pinball adventure, players will travel with Rush through time.

Immersed in exclusive Rush concert footage and guided by custom speech from Alex Lifeson, Geddy Lee, and fellow Canadian Rock Hall of Famer, Ed Robertson of the Barenaked Ladies, players will experience Rush and their iconic music as never before. This Rush pinball concert under glass features sixteen iconic songs, accentuated by sound and lighting effects. Songs include Headlong Fight, Far Cry, One Little Victory, Working Man, 2112, Tom Sawyer, The Spirit of Radio, Freewill, Cygnus X-1 (Book One: The Voyage and Book Two: Hemispheres), The Big Money, Subdivisions, Limelight, Fly By Night, La Villa Strangiato, Bastille Day, and Red Barchetta.

Rush pinball machines include Stern’s new Insider Connected™ system, which enables players to interact with the game and a global network of players in a variety of ways. Stern Insider Connected provides dynamic entertainment and player engagement features. Insider Connected also provides an operator focused toolset to drive location play and remotely manage every aspect of the machines. Registration for Insider Connected is available at insider.sternpinball.com/.

Travel back in time with Rush by shooting pinballs through a custom sculpted, electromagnetic Time Machine. Players will explore Red Barchetta, Subdivisions, and Fly By Night Multiball action. The Rush Premium and LE model pinball experience includes a motorized ramp with custom lighting effects and a custom sculpted Clockwork Angels Clock, inspired from Neil Peart’s bass drum from their Time Machine Tour. This motorized clock illuminates, and when it strikes midnight players will be transported to a Headlong Fight Multiball frenzy.

Additional features on the Premium and LE models include a custom subway system, locking pinballs to unleash a high energy Far Cry Multiball. The ‘Dead End’ vertical upkicker propels pinballs up an additional wireform ramp return for non-stop pinball action. As an encore, a three-bank of musical drop targets guard a secret ball lock for players to discover an adrenalized Freewill Multiball to continue their musical pinball journey.

Limited to 1,000 LE machines globally, the highly collectible LE version includes the Expression Lighting System™. With 96 intelligent RGB LEDs, the Expression Lighting System enables full color spectrum control. Positioned in pockets cut into the cabinet sides to provide color themed full playfield illumination, this integrated playfield lighting system is synchronized to custom light shows specifically designed for every song and dynamically responsive to game events. The LE version also includes an exclusive full color mirrored backglass inspired by Clockwork Angels, iconic custom cabinet artwork, custom high gloss and powder-coated guitar-shaped pinball armor, a custom designer-autographed bottom arch, exclusive inside art blades, upgraded audio system, anti-reflection pinball playfield glass, shaker motor, a sequentially numbered plaque, and a Certificate of Authenticity signed by Stern Chairman and CEO Gary Stern.

“Partnering with Rush, we created a musical pinball experience that every fan will want to explore. Incredible music, memorable toys, unique mechanical pinball action, and custom speech will make players feel like they are on tour with the band,” said Gary Stern, Chairman and CEO. “In memory of Neil Peart, we have also decided to support the Neil Peart Research Award sponsored by the Glioblastoma Foundation as it researches cures for this deadly brain cancer.”

Rush pinball machines will be showcased virtually to the press and public for the first time at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas from January 5th – 8th.

Rush pinball machines and accessories are available now through authorized Stern Pinball distributors and dealers around the world. - Rush.com, January 4, 2022

Stern Pinball shared some behind the scenes footage from Alex Lifeson, Geddy Lee, and fellow Canadian Rock Hall of Famer, Ed Robertson of the Barenaked Ladies studio session.

Rush to Release Photo Outtakes From ‘Moving Pictures’ Cover Shoot

Rush are cracking open the vaults to unveil previously unreleased pictures from their Moving Pictures cover shoot. Photographer Deborah Samuel captured the iconic album cover image along with the covers for Permanent Waves, Exit … Stage Left and Signals. The outtakes are now available to the public for the first time with the release of the Deborah Samuel Collection.

The collection includes three alternate front covers and three alternate back covers for Moving Pictures, along with 12 interior album art photographs of Alex Lifeson and Geddy Lee. Proceeds from the collection will go to Grapes for Humanity, which has partnered with Definitive Authentic to support the Genius 100 Foundation's Gift of Sight campaign and the Himalayan Cataract Project. The funds will help the organizations perform sight-restoring surgeries in under-resourced regions where HCP operates.

"I clearly remember the day Deborah set up for this cover and especially the interior series of the Moving Pictures photographs," Lifeson said in a statement. "I was jumping around in the dark with a bright strobe flashing away, which was disorienting to say the least, but the results fit so well with the album concept, and I loved the final photos she produced. I’m thrilled to revisit them and make the covers and these interior photos available in support of Grapes For Humanity."

Added Lee: "I'm very thankful to Deborah for generously making these rare photographs available to our fans, the proceeds of which will help bring sight to the sightless."

You can view the collection or make a purchase at the Moving Pictures 40 website.

For more visit UltimateClassicRock.com

Hugh Syme featured in Prog Magazine Issue 125

Hugh Syme discusses his work over the years with Rush in the new issue of Prog Magazine. There's also an Art Of Hugh Syme calendar with the issue too!  Get it in store. Or buy online here

Alex Lifeson To Perform At 'Andy Kim Christmas' Show In Toronto

Blabbermouth has reported that Alex Lifeson is among the guest musicians who will perform at the 17th annual Andy Kim Christmas, set to take place on December 8 at the Massey Hall in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. 

The Andy Kim Christmas has been gathering friends and fans together to celebrate the spirit and generosity of the musical community with all proceeds going to charity. Last year, the concert brought people together from coast to coast on television, raising over $200,000 to bring its cumulative money raised to over $1.8 million. The program is the brainchild of music legend, and one of the evening's performers, Andy Kim.

During this one-of-a-kind charity event, patrons will be treated to a classic variety entertainment show that includes holiday performances by some of the country's most sought-after singer/songwriters and performers. Scheduled guests are BILLY TALENT, THE SHEEPDOGS, Ron Sexsmith, Alex Lifeson, Jully Black, Tyler Shaw, Sloan, William Prince, Mary Margaret O'Hara, Jake Clemons, MEN WITHOUT HATS, PURSUIT OF HAPPINESS, Theo Tams, Beverly Mahood, Georgia Harmer and CHOIR, CHOIR, CHOIR.

Thank you RushFanForever for the headsup, for more visit Blabbermouth.net.

UPDATE 12/9: The highlight of last night's show was an all-star, Led Zeppelin medley featuring Alex Lifeson and others, performing The Battle of Evermore and a portion of Stairway to Heaven.

Rush Gig Poster Book

Coming December 1st, RushBackstageClub have put together a 208 page book drawing together a selection of gig posters from their 45+ year history.  "Within these pages, you’ll learn about the first time Neil Peart ever took the stage with Rush, how Santa Claus (!) opened for Rush, and just how extensive their touring really was. You’ll see ads and gig posters promoting everything from Rush’s first concert in America to the largest crowd they ever played (a benefit show in Toronto) to their final act, at the fabled Forum in Los Angeles. A must for fans of one of the most storied rock acts of all time, Rush."  Click here to order.

Tom Morello's "The Atlas Underground Flood" featuring appearance by Alex Lifeson

Tom Morello has announced the details of his new album The Atlas Underground Flood, which features a variety of guest performers including Alex Lifeson on the track "I Have Seen the Way" (along with Kirk Hammett & Dr. Fresch).  Speaking of the new album, Morello said "The Atlas Underground Flood finishes what The Atlas Underground Fire started. Fire and Flood are my London Calling. Admiring The Clash at their apex moment, I sought to make a double album where artistic intent supersedes genre.  I aimed to forge a central curated vision to tie together a sonically fearless, wild, and wide-ranging musical ambition with a tremendous cast of collaborators. And of course, there are many guitar solos.”  Coming December 3rd, the album is now available for preorder.

Neil Peart's Wife And Daughter Accept 'Lifetime Achievement Award' On His Behalf At PASIC

Blabbermouth announced that Neil Peart was posthumously honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award from Percussive Arts Society (PAS) at this year's Percussive Arts Society International Convention (PASIC) in Indianapolis on Thursday, November 11.  Peart's wife Carrie Nuttall and daughter Olivia accepted the award on his behalf at the event, where they were joined by Chris Stankee, global director of artist relations for Sabian cymbals.

A photo of Nuttall giving her acceptance speech, with Olivia and Chris standing nearby, was shared by fellow drummer Dave Stark on Facebook.  For more info visit Blabbermouth.net.

A Brush Of Hope 2021, Alex Lifeson's donated Charcoal Sketch "1971"

Alex Lifeson has again donated to the annual A Brush of Hope - Celebrity Paintings for The Kidney Foundation of Canada. This year Alex has donated an original charcoal sketch titled "1971": "Drawn in 1971, then 18 year old Alex completed this sketch of a live model while attending an art class during the formative years of Rush. Piece is charcoal on art paper, measures 18"x24" and is hand signed and dated on the front by Alex Lifeson."  Go here to bid.

New Song from Alex Lifeson: "Cherry Lopez Lullaby"

Today Alex Lifeson shared a new song titled "Cherry Lopez Lullaby" to the "music" section of his website:

"This was written during the mix session of Clockwork Angels while in LA for months starting early 2012.  I did an interview with High Times and the interviewer brought along a friend, an esteemed grower who provided a sample of his creation named Cherry Lopez.  Because I was on an EST body clock, I was up most mornings @ 5:00 AM.  I'd order coffee, sit on my hotel room balcony, read the paper and wake and bake then dive into making some fun sounds while the city was waking up.  I had some borrowed acoustic and electric guitars for the duration, thankfully, as sitting around waiting to go to the studio was tedious and certainly, a bowl of Cherry kept my appetite healthy." - Alex Lifeson.com, Oct 29, 2021

Neil Peart's Legacy Honoured with "Spirit of Drumming" Scholarship

Join Modern Drummer magazine in celebrating the life and legacy of Neil Peart by inspiring an up and coming, young drummer with an incredible opportunity!  In memory of Neil, with the support of his family, Modern Drummer is proud to present an up-and-coming drummer with the annual “Neil Peart Spirit of Drumming Scholarship”.

The scholarship, originally announced at the 2020 Modern Drummer Festival by Carrie Nuttall-Peart, provides the recipient with 52 weeks of free drum lessons from world-class drum instructor Dom Famularo, along with a 1 year subscription to Modern Drummer All Access, plus a selection of classic Rush album releases from Universal Music Enterprises.

Potential recipients of the scholarship must be qualified entrants to participate. A “qualified entrant” is defined as someone who is between the ages of 14 and 21, is not a professional musician, and is not a party to any sponsorship or entertainment contract that, in Modern Drummer’s judgment, conflicts with the spirit of the scholarship.

Potential recipients must submit up to a 2-minute video of their playing AND a short essay describing why this scholarship will be significant to both their life and their drumming. The impact on their drumming that has been inspired by Neil’s playing and legacy.

All submissions must be received prior to November 26, 2021.   Click here for more.

Ohio State Marching Band celebrates the music of Rush

Today the Ohio State Marching Band celebrated the music of Rush, and I may be prejudiced as a Rush fan, but it was incredible, and is a must see below!  I'm sure Neil would be proud!

To honor the early 2020 passing of one of the greatest drummers in history, Rush’s Neil Peart, the Ohio State Marching Band added a little more percussion to the mix for the halftime show Saturday.

Peart was a member of the progressive rock band for more than 40 years before he died from cancer. To help recreate Peart’s sonic impact, the percussion section was expanded by 20 toms and 20 extra cymbals mounted on four racks. They were at the front of the formation and played by the band’s five percussion alternates for this week.

The band blistered through some of Rush’s greatest hits, including “Red Barchetta,” “Fly by Night” and “Tom Sawyer.” Formations replicated Peart and Rush guitar player Alex Lifeson, and spelled out “2112” and “YYZ,” titles to Rush songs. - Ohio State News, Oct 9, 2021

Hugh Syme Talks "The Art of Rush: Serving A Life Sentence - Second Edition" And More

Originally published in 2015, The Art of Rush: Serving A Life Sentence, the newly expanded and updated coffee table book will be released next month by IDW Publishing on October 12th. Covering his complete 40 plus year tenure as Rush's art director, the book contains Syme's original illustrations, paintings, photography, and the incredible stories behind each album that he has designed with the band since 1975. The book's narration was written by music journalist Stephen Humphries and includes in-depth interviews with each Rush band member and the artist. The second edition is newly expanded and updated to include content released by the band since 2015.

Last week I spoke to Hugh about The Art of Rush: Serving A Life Sentence and more. During the time we had available, I asked Hugh questions about his Rush art that I had not seen asked before and that took us on a roundabout journey talking about his Life Sentence as the de facto art director for Rush, a title that he never assumed to be set in stone...

Check out my interview here.

RUSH, CONEY HATCH Legends Compose Music For "All Or Nothing Toronto Maple Leafs" Amazon Original

Coney Hatch bassist Andy Curran, who has been working with Rush guitarist Alex Lifeson in a project dubbed Envy Of None, has issued the following update: 'We’re excited to announce that we have composed new music for the upcoming Amazon Original, All Or Nothing Toronto Maple Leafs, available only on Prime Video October 1⁠.'   Click here for more.