"Rush - The Rise Of Kings" Documentary Coming May 6th - Now Available

The unauthorized documentary film Rush - The Rise of Kings, was released May 6th from Sexy Intellectual studios.  Apparently covering the years from the band's beginnings in 1968 through the release of Moving Pictures in 1981, you can get your copy here.

"The most successful band to emerge from the Canadian rock explosion of the early 1970s, Rush would go on to become one of that nation's biggest entertainment exports. A trio of musical polymaths who cut a fiercely independent, sometimes controversial path through various musical styles to forge a distinctive, evolving sound that was incomparable to that of any of their contemporaries, this hugely influential group have flourished across a forty-plus year career. This film traces the history of Rush from the bar rooms of Toronto in the late 1960s to the world's largest arenas in the late 70s and early 1980s, by which time they were amongst the biggest bands on the planet. Through a stunning combination of rare and classic footage, the testimony of friends, colleagues and those who worked with the group across the years, plus exclusive and archive interviews and a host of other features, this programme makes the very unique history of Rush come alive in a manner previously undocumented."

- Thanks to Ed Stenger for the headsup!

Rush On Jeopardy - May 5, 2014

During yesterday's episode of Jeopardy, the $400 question was "This trio sang 'Today's Tom Sawyer, he gets high on you, & the space he invades, he gets by on you".  Click here for a video. - Thanks to Jamey Reynolds and Elden Driver for the headsup!

“Clockwork Angels” Comic Book #2 of 6 now available

The second part of the six part Clockwork Angels comic book series was released on Wednesday.  The standard comic store cover series can be ordered directly from Boom! Studios at this link. In addition, the exclusive limited cover set features key lyrics from Rush songs that are tied to the comic, as pictured in the cover attached to this post. These overs also feature character design concept art by artist Nick Robles, and can be ordered from Boom! Studios at this alternate link.

Geddy Lee one of Wine Enthusiasts' "Six Celebrity Wine Makers"

The June, 2014 issue of Wine Enthusiast magazine contains the article "Six Celebrity Wine Makers", which includes Geddy Lee.   Geddy discusses about the connection between music and wine-making, how he and Alex Lifeson became interested in wine, and names his desert island bottle.

"During the late ’70s and early ’80s, while on tour, we would receive gifts from concert promoters of fine wine. Mostly Bordeaux, as our guitarist Alex Lifeson had a keen interest in wine and had a modest collection. I kept my share of the bottles in a wine fridge for years and then in the late ’80s I decided to do an inventory. I was amazed at what I was tasting and it quickly turned into an obsession."

- Thanks to Ed at RushIsABand for the headsup!

Neil Peart's "News Weather and Sports" - April 2014

Today Neil Peart updated his website with the latest edition of News, Weather & Sports titled "Telescope Peak Revisited".  Neil recounts returning to Death Valley and climbing Telescope Peak for the first time since the Ghost Rider trip 15 years ago.

Rush On The Colbert Report - Again

Last night on The Colbert Report, Stephen opened the show with a report on how the Canadian middle class has exceeded the Americans as the richest middle class in the world.  Stephen goes on to state that "no longer will people around the world aspire to the American dream of 2.5 kids...now it's the Canadian dream of a beaver dam, a maple syrup moat and 2.5 members of Rush; I don't know about you but I don't want to teach Geddy Lee to catch" and a photo of the band, showing 2.5 members is shown. Check out last night's episode here. - Thanks to BP for the headsup!

Dearly Beloved's Rob Higgins Talks New Album and Uncle Geddy Lee

Rush fans may remember Rob Higgins, Geddy's nephew and member of the now defunct group Rocketscience; Geddy produced and sang on their track "Space Suit" from their now out of print album Foolscap (hear it on Youtube).

Higgins is currently bass player and front man of the group Dearly Beloved, and in a new interview with MusicRadar.com, Higgins talks about his relationship with his uncle, touring with Rush and being present for recording sessions.

"My mom is Geddy's older sister, so he would get stuck babysitting me. So for me, I was lucky! I was sitting in the corner of rehearsals. He'd have to look after me for the afternoon, so if he was going to rehearsal I was going to rehearsal. I would sit in the corner and watch the band for six hours without saying a word. I was always a quiet observer. They maybe thought I was tuned out, but I was absorbing every interaction, evert attempt at a song, every beat, every note. I was so enthralled with all of it.

"Growing up, he was my cool uncle. My mom would take me over there and we would have family visits. He was the uncle who always had the instruments in a sound proof room in the basement. My mom would visit with the family and I would spend the whole afternoon just bashing around on drums and guitars and basses. I can't ever really remember a time not playing music. I think since I was born I've had proximity to it. I guess I've got Geddy to thank for that. I don't think I would have had it otherwise."

When I was a teenager I was able to go to London with them, and I was living with them in a house while they were recording an album in England. I was fortunate enough to go on tour with them, live on a tour bus with them and spend time like that. I've always studied how they operate as a band, and it's certainly influenced the bands I've been involved with. They're all about work ethic but maintaining an incredible sense of humour."

In terms of the music it's always pushed me to push myself. I was afforded some opportunities to see them pushing themselves in the studio. There was one opportunity when I was 12, where I went and stayed with them in Quebec up in the mountains, this little studio called Le Studio just outside of Montreal. It was fascinating to just be in the studio for hours and have nothing to do, just to see their work ethic. Whether laying down a part on a song or figuring out an overdub or working with a producer to get the most out of a piece of music, it was fascinating to be a fly on the wall"

- Thanks to RushIsABand for the headsup!

"'You Can't Have Freedom for Free:' On Rush, Ayn Rand, and Not Compromising" - Reason.com

Today Reason.com published "'You Can't Have Freedom for Free:' On Rush, Ayn Rand, and Not Compromising", an essay on 2112, Rand's Anthem, the band's struggle to succeed on their own terms, and the lessons learned. - Thanks to Paul Wimberley for the headsup!

Alex Lifeson visits Ishibashi Music in Tokyo

Ishibashi Music in Tokyo has posted a new video featuring an impromptu visit by Alex Lifeson. Alex signs his both his signature Gibson and new acoustic PRS guitars. - Thanks to RushFanForever for the headasup!

Consequence Of Sound Asks "Who’s the Greatest Drummer of All Time? You Suggest!"

Consequence Of Sound has asked "Who’s the Greatest Drummer of All Time? You Suggest!"   Click here to enter your three favorite drummers of all time. - Thanks B-man for the headsup!

Record Store Day 2014 - 7" Single with Rush's Cover of "7 & 7 Is"

Saturday, April 19th, is Record Store Day 2014, and we have just learned that there will be a Rush release. Yesterday a photo was tweeted by Encore Records showing a 7" vinyl single of "7 And 7 Is" by Rush, their cover released of Feedback of Love's classic from their album Da Capo which is found on the flip side.  To find a participating store in your area click here. - Thanks to RushIsABand for the headsup!

Paul Northfield talks Le Studio and Rush in new interview

As a follow up to part one of the documentary "Le Studio: Temple of Sound", yesterday the Le Studio Channel posted a "Bonus Feature" featuring a 45 minute interview with Paul Northfield, who served as engineer on the albums Permanent Waves through Grace Under Pressure, recorded at Le Studio.  Paul has many great stories, and discusses his friendship with Neil Peart and his role in the recording of Vapor Trails. - Thanks to RushIsABand for the headsup!

Neil Peart writes foreword for Gavin Harrison & Terry Branam's "Rhythmic Composition" - Now Available

Gavin Harrison, best known as the drummer of Porcupine Tree, has announced the upcoming publication of his latest book Rhythmic Composition: Featuring The Music of Porcupine Tree.  Co-written with Terry Branham, the book includes a 20 note-for-note transcriptions of Porcupine Tree songs, and it will also feature a foreword by Neil Peart.

Although advertised with a May 2nd publication date, copies are now shipping.  Order yours here.

"Coming soon....'Rhythmic Composition' (on Hudson Limited) - myself and Terry Branam have been hard at work transcribing and writing stories about 20 Porcupine Tree songs. More than 40 great photos too. Release date to be announced here. There will be a limited amount of signed copies for sale at burningshed.com in the near future." - Gavin Harrison, Facebook, February 20, 2014

Le Studio - Temple Of Sound - Episode One

LeStudio was a world class recording studio in the Laurentian Mountains of Canada. It was the private retreat of Rush for the writing and recording of eight of their albums, as well as hundreds of other artists over the years. It closed in 2003 and now sits stripped of all it's furnishings & equipment, abandoned in the forest.

Check out episode one of "Le Studio - Temple of Sound", a new Youtube documentary which covers the LeStudio backstory from inception to current state. This episode gives viewers a strong foundation for future episodes to come later. - Thanks to Ed at RushIsABand for the headsup!

Rush Sighting In "The Both"'s New Video "Milwaukee"

Check out the new video for "Milwaukee" launched Wednesday by "The Both", a new collaboration by Aimee Mann and Ted Leo.  Their self tiled album will be released on Tuesday and can be preordered on iTunes.

In the video, they hire a drummer (Ted's uncle, also played by Leo) who has Rush and the star on his jean jacket, and the 4:32 mark it shows "Ed's" list of top drummers including you know who...  

Aimee Mann of course would agree; she appeared as a guest vocalist on Hold Your Fire. - Thanks J'Po for the headsup!

"Red Hot Rock" US #1 Now Available Featuring Rush Cover

Sweden's "Red Hot Rock" magazine has just published their first issue for the U.S. market.  According to their website, "Red Hot Rock" U.S.A. hit all Barnes & Noble locations on April 8 (yesterday).  U.S. Issue #1 is available in two covers, one of which is Rush, and includes the tagline "Time traveling with Alex Lifeson: Two Interviews!". - Thanks to John Patuto with Cygnus-X1.net for the headsup!

Instru-Metal Symphony: The 20 Greatest Heavy Metal & Hard Rock Instrumental Songs - VH1.com

On Saturday VH1.com posted their list "Instru-Metal Symphony: The 20 Greatest Heavy Metal & Hard Rock Instrumental Songs".

"Some artists build careers around it. Some use it as another weapon in their arsenal. Some simply use it as a bridge between songs. But whatever the reason for employing it, the instrumental track has proven to be an essential element in a hard rock band’s legacy. Because even though lyrics can add a massive layer of emotion to a song, sometimes the story and message can be conveyed with absolutely no words at all. Just a combination of pummeling guitars and drums, heavy atmosphere and a big emphasis on texture and dynamics. And when there’s no concern about matching lyrics to music, the artist can feel free to stretch out, let loose and experiment purely with sound."

Coming in at #1 is Rush with "La Villa Strangiato (An Exercise in Self-Indulgence)":

"The final track on the progressive rock band’s 1978 album Hemispheres clocks in at 9:34 and was the band’s first fully-instrumental release. Drummer Neil Peart has said that they spent more time recording this track than the entire Fly by Night album, but it was worth it – the complex track is considered by fans and critics to be a technical and creative masterpiece."

- Thanks to RushFanForever for the headsup!

Classic album covers in Google Street View in pictures - Guardian Online

Today the UK's Guardian newspaper posted a story online featuring classic album covers in Google Street View – in pictures.  Included is Moving Pictures. - Thanks to Reed Lover for the headsup!

Official Rush Lighters In 2014 Zippo Lighter catalog

The 2014 Zippo lighter catalog includes two official Rush lighters found on page 71 with a retail price of $30.95 each.  One lighter has the album cover from Vapor Trails, the other was a group shot of the band from the Hemispheres era.

Unfortunately, the lighters are unavailable!  According to Zippo's headquarters in Bradford Pennsylvania, the licensing agreement fell through before going into production but after the catalog had gone to print. - Thanks to Tod O'Donnell for the headsup!

Walmart To Become Exclusive Retailer of Rush - April Fools!

I hope you all enjoyed our April Fool's joke!

Back in Februay Rush caused quite a stir when their 1974 classic "Working Man" was used in a commercial for Walmart as part of an advertising campaign announcing the superstore's pledge to invest $250 billion in products that support American jobs over the next 10 years.

In a surprise move similar to recent deals between Walmart and classic rock acts such as Journey and The Eagles, Rush has entered into a similar deal with the mega-retailer.  According to a new report at HollywoodStar.com, Walmart will become the exclusive retailer of Rush, and in turn, Rush will become an exclusive sponsor of the retail chain, as part of a multi-year contract between Rush and the retail giant.  For more info visit HollywoodStar.com.

Alex Lifeson guest appearance on John Wesley's "Disconnect" - Now Available

Guitarist John Wesley, best known by many as touring guitarist for Porcupine Tree, announced back in February that Alex Lifeson has recorded a "mind-blowing" solo for the track "Once a Warrior" on his album Disconnect which was released UK today, March 31st, and in the U.S. on April 1st. You can order your copy here.

"7 years ago I was fortunate enough to meet and spend some time with one of my early guitar heroes, Alex Lifeson of RUSH. He's been a HUGE influence on my guitar playing throughout the years, and he's also one of the kindest human beings you'll ever meet. Now, 7 years later, he's performed a MIND-BLOWING guitar solo on my song, 'Once a Warrior.'  I'm so happy to have Alex on my new album, 'Disconnect,' and I can't wait for you to hear it!" - John Wesley, February 6, 2014

ProgReport.com posted a video interview with John Wesley where he gave credit to Alex Lifeson as a large inspiration behind the "heavy guitar sound" emulated by Porcupine Tree, and also talked about how Alex came to record on his solo album.  You can tune in here, he first discusses Lifeson and Rush at the 8:55 mark, and again at the 16:50 mark.

HuffingtonPost has posted another new video interview with John Wesley where he expands on how Alex Lifeson became involved with Disconnect. You can check it out online here.

Vote "Working Man" for Cleveland Indians pitcher John Axford's entry song

Cleveland Indians pitcher John Axford has asked the fans to vote to choose the music he uses before entering games this season. Working Man is one of the choices, vote here!

UPDATE March 25th:  Working Man has made it to Round Two in the voting for Cleveland Indians' John Axford’s entrance song. Round two ends tomorrow with round three beginning on March 26th. Keep voting, currently “Working Man” is in the lead for round two at 28% of the vote.

UPDATE March 31st: "Working Man" is in the finals against the Beastie Boys' "Sabotage", and today is the final day to vote.  Vote now!

"Not Fade Away: Rush’s Simple, Straight-Ahead Debut Turns 40" - Radio.com

Today Radio.com posted a new article where they look back on Rush's debut album released 40 years ago this month.  Geddy Lee talks about the album, the inspiration behind "Working Man", and how the album was "saved" thanks to Terry Brown:

"The first version of our first record was really crappy, and that’s when we met the guy who really changed our lives, which was Terry Brown. And he became our producer for the next 10 years and taught us so much about making records.  He saved that album, when I think of that album, I think of him, I think of that first session, when we took those poorly recorded versions of those songs, and he decided what was salvageable and what we should just re-record."

Click here for the full story.

Rush 2015 Wall Calendar Now Available For Preorder

The 2015 Rush wall calendar is now available for preorder.  Tentatively scheduled for release July 28th, you can preorder your copy here.

"Rush Plotting 41st Anniversary Tour for 2015" - Rolling Stone.com

It's finally official.  After previously squashing any plans for an R40 tour with comments that it wouldn't be until at least 2016 before the band tour again, Rush has finally announced that there are now plans in the works for a 2015 spring tour, or as Alex Lifeson put it "It's going to be a 41st anniversary tour, or whatever they're going to call it."

Today Rollingstone.com posted an interview with Alex where he explained:

"We haven't really talked seriously about what we want to do," says Lifeson. "But I think we're probably going to lean towards making it a real sort of fan event, and really try to put something together that's very pleasing for the fans across the board. That's always been difficult, for us to sort of balance things."

I would say that is great news indeed!

Neil Peart's "News Weather and Sports" - March 2014

Today Neil Peart updated his website with the latest edition of News, Weather & Sports titled "Not All Days Are Sundays".  Neil regales us of his latest winter adventures in Quebec, and shares his grief over the passing of his brother-in-law, Steven Taylor. 

Clockwork Angels graphic novel preview from Boom! Studios Comics

Yesterday Boom! Studios posted an extensive preview of the Clockwork Angels graphic novel.  Check it out here.

Rush comes in at #35 on Billboard's List of "The 40 Highest Earning Musicians in 2013"

On Monday Billboard posted their list of "The 40 Highest Earning Musicians in 2013", and coming in at #35 was Rush at $9,050,583.42.  Topping the list was pop star Taylor Swift $39,699,575.60 (yeah, a whopping $30.5 million more than Rush's total!). Thanks to the B-man for the headsup!

Alex Lifeson helping raise awareness for The Kidney Foundation of Canada

The Kidney Foundation of Canada has posted a new press release announcing the launching of a free Online Risk Assessment tool.  The PR reminds us that March is Kidney Health month, and that Alex Lifeson has been instrumental in raising awareness:

"Thanks to celebrity spokesperson Alex Lifeson's participation in a new public service announcement, we are able to help raise awareness of the risk factors for kidney disease. Canadians will also have a health information e-tool at their fingertips and a printed risk assessment they can share with their healthcare provider - crucial resources for their kidney health management."

Read more: http://www.digitaljournal.com/pr/1786247#ixzz2vlE1t5Gg

John Wesley discusses influence of Alex Lifeson on Porcupine Tree's "sound"

Yesterday ProgReport.com posted a new interview with John Wesley.  During the interview, Wesley credits Alex Lifeson as a large inspiration behind the "heavy guitar sound" emulated by Porcupine Tree.  In addition, he talks about how Alex came to record on his solo album.  You can tune in here, he first discusses Lifeson and Rush at the 8:55 mark, and again at the 16:50 mark. - Thanks to Brad P for the headsup!

Clockwork Angels graphic novel update from Kevin J. Anderson

Last night author Kevin J. Anderson posted an update to his blog explaining the different cover versions available to you for the Clockwork Angels comic book series coming on March 19th:

"BOOM! Studios will release the first issue (of six) of CLOCKWORK ANGELS: The Graphic Novel, scripted by me and with art by Nick Robles in a few weeks. The comic will debut at Emerald City Comic Con in Seattle on March 28, with a special exclusive cover for ECCC. There will be three variant covers in comic stores, an exclusive cover for the rush.com and BOOM! websites, and a limited cover for distribution with the Larry’s Comics chain.  All copies are about $4 retail."

The standard comic store cover series can be preordered for $29.99 for all six issues directly from Boom! Studios at this link. In addition, the exclusive limited cover set features key lyrics from Rush songs that are tied to the comic, as pictured in the cover attached to this post. These overs also feature character design concept art by artist Nick Robles, and can be preordered from Boom! Studios for $49.99 for all six issues at this alternate link.

American Idol Caleb Johnson Performs "Working Man"

UPDATE:  Check out Caleb's comments last night following his performance of "Working Man", where he reacts to Harry Connick Jr's comment and shares more of his love of Rush.


Last week on American Idol, performer Caleb Johnson informed us that his favorite band was Rush.  And tonight, Caleb performed "Working Man".  You can check out the performance below; to vote for Caleb, click here. - Thanks to Brad P for the headsup!

Caleb Johnson - Working Man - American Idol 13... by IdolxMuzic

Neil Peart featured in BMW Owners News March 2014 issue

Neil Peart is featured in the March issue of BMW Owners News, the official magazine of the BMW Motorcycle Owners of America.  The eight page feature Backroads & Backbeats: Neil Peart takes the Scenic Way to Work is an interview with Neil about his motorcycle trips while on tour with Rush. - Thanks to Ed at Rush Is A Band for the headsup!

RushCon 14 Coming To Toronto August 22-24, 2014

Today RushCon announced plans for this year's annual North American convention of Rush fans.  The 14th annual convention will take place in Rush’s hometown of Toronto, August 22nd - 24th, 2014. 

"We are very excited to announce that our 14th annual convention will take place in Rush’s hometown of Toronto, August 22nd - 24th, 2014.

"Enjoy 3 days of Rush-filled festivities, including games, prizes, trivia, a memorabilia charity auction, special guest speakers, a tribute band concert and much, much more. Full convention details will be announced later this spring, but we wanted to make sure folks saved the date!

"This is the year! Don’t be kicking yourself for missing yet another RushCon. From the friends you will make, to the music you will sing along with, RushCon 14 will be an unforgettable experience.

"You belong at RushCon 14. http://www.rushcon.org/"

Dan Burn's "No Turning Back" featuring cover by Hugh Syme

No Turning Back is a new collection of original short fiction by Dan Burns. This beautifully crafted hardcover edition includes story illustrations by Chicago artist Kelly Maryanski and an original cover design by world-renowned graphic artist Hugh Syme (best known for album covers for Rush). Additionally, the author accompanies each story with his personal notes regarding the thoughts and ideas that inspired him to write the story, adding a unique behind-the-scenes perspective of the writing process. 

The hardcover first edition will be published May 1st from Chicago Arts Press; click here to preorder directly from the author. - Thanks Dan for the headsup!

Rush And BOOM! Studios Think Big With Clockwork Angels’ Comic - Coming March 19th

In a new press release, today Boom! Studios confirmed the March release of the Clockwork Angels comic book series, as well as sharing the first three covers.

February 21,  2014 – Los Angeles, CA - Award-winning publisher BOOM! Studios is pleased to announce the March debut of CLOCKWORK ANGELS, a new limited series based on author Kevin J. Anderson’s New York Times bestselling novel and legendary rock band Rush’s concept album of the same name. Rush lyricist and drummer Neil Peart and Anderson, along with interior artist Nick Robles and cover artist Hugh Syme, create the steampunk world of Albion in comic book form for the first time.

“Rush is one of our all-time favorite rock bands here in the office, so we immediately jumped at the chance to work on CLOCKWORK ANGELS,” said BOOM! Studios Editor-in-Chief Matt Gagnon. “The icing on the cake is that author Kevin J. Anderson is somebody we’ve always wanted to work with, so this is an all-around thrill. Mr. Anderson and Mr. Peart have brought us a breathtaking story that illustrator Nick Robles has beautifully visualized.”

WHY WE LOVE IT: Rush’s CLOCKWORK ANGELS is a testament to the band’s creative versatility—it has been successful as a concept album, novel, and international tour. Now, Rush drummer and lyricist Neil Peart and New York Times bestselling author Kevin J. Anderson are bringing the story of CLOCKWORK ANGELS to comics, where newcomer artist Nick Robles will bring the journey of Owen Hardy to visual life!

WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT: Die-hard Rush fans have longed for Peart’s narrative songwriting to be adapted into comic book form for decades, but fans of steampunk fantasy will enjoy journeying into the world of Albion thanks to Anderson’s skilled storytelling.

WHAT IT’S ABOUT: Owen Hardy, like all the people of Albion, has lived his whole life under the rule of The Watchmaker. His entire life has been planned down to the exact second. But what happens when a young boy decides that things should not always goes as planned?

CLOCKWORK ANGELS #1 arrives in comic shops on March 19th, the four-year anniversary of the album’s initial announcement by the band members, with a cover price of $3.99 under Diamond order code JAN140981. The first issue will ship with two variant covers including a subscription cover and a retailer incentive. Not sure where to find your nearest comic retailer? Use comicshoplocator.com or findacomicshop.com to find one! It’s also available for order directly from boom-studios.com.

ECW Press will release the paperback version of Kevin J. Anderson’s bestselling CLOCKWORK ANGELS novel (ISBN: 978-1-77041-156-2, $14.95) in May.

Alex Lifeson Speaks to Grade 5 Students At Toronto's The York School

Check out this photo tweeted this morning of Alex Lifeson speaking to the Grade 5 students at Toronto's The York School regarding multi-track recording. 

"KISS Slam The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame", mention John Rutsey snub - Classic Rock

Today Classic Rock posted an interview with KISS' Paul Stanley where he discusses their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.  In it, when discussing whether more that the original four members of KISS would be inducted, he points out the fact that worthy musicians including John Rutsey have been snubbed by the hall...

"It was interesting to me, or offensive to me, that when the question was broached with the hierarchy about inducting additional members it was shut down immediately as ‘a non starter,’ which to me is arrogant. People who sit behind desks need to respect the people who are actually either inductees or possible inductees into this so-called hallowed organization. So the fact that there are 30 or 40 or 50 or some absurd number of Grateful Dead members all inducted, the fact that all of the Chili Peppers, including people who played on early albums that never amounted to very much are not inducted, the fact that John Rutsey, the drummer on the first Rush album is not inducted, the fact that Rob Trujillo, who’s a great guy but didn’t play on any of the classic Metallica albums, was inducted after being in the band six years makes me wonder exactly what are the rules? If the rules don’t apply to everybody then they’re not rules.  Of course it goes without saying that Ace and Peter deserve this moment in the spotlight. We wouldn’t be here without them. We couldn’t have built what we did without them at the foundation. That being said, we couldn’t have built what we built without a lot of people who followed them. We couldn’t have been here without them and we couldn’t be here today with them. So absolutely, of course they deserve and belong up there." - ClassicRock.com, February 14, 2014

- Thanks to RushFanForever for the headsup!

Montréal Guitare Trio cover Tom Sawyer on "Der Prinz" - Coming February 18th

Coming February 18th, Canada's Montréal Guitare Trio will be releasing their latest album, "Der Prinz", which will include a fantastic acoustic cover of "Tom Sawyer". Although now available for preorder on iTunes for release on February 18th, the cd is currently scheduled for U.S. release on March 18.

You can see the trio perform the track live here.

"Live Sound Engineering Techniques: On Tour with Rush with Brent Carpenter" - Lynda.com

This past December 13th, the subscription based education website Lynda.com posted a 78 minute course video with Rush's Sound Engineer Brent Carpenter on tour with Rush on the Clockwork Angels tour.  From their website:

"Follow along with Brent Carpenter on tour with Rush, as he demonstrates what it is like to be a live sound engineer for a major rock show. We shadow Brent and the Rush sound crew as they prepare for the Denver, Colorado, show on their Clockwork Angels tour, where the band is set to perform for 12,000 fans. After the gear is loaded into the venue, Brent explains how he and the crew set up the rigging, amp racks, and fly the speaker arrays to make sure well-balanced stereo sound reaches every seat in the arena. He also shows how he sets up his console to mix the onstage sound for Geddy Lee, Alex Lifeson, and Neil Peart and configures the in-ear monitor system and balance of audience mics for each member of the band. Then we get to sit backstage with Brent and watch what he does during line check, sound check, and the actual show. After the fans file out, see how all the equipment comes back down and is packed away so the cycle can start all over in the next city."

Topics include: Choosing the PA for the venue; Setting up points, motors and cables, and trusses; Getting the best use of both analog and digital signal paths; How Rush gets that Geddy, Alex, and Neil live sound; Setting up the digital monitor mix console; Doing the line check and sound check; Using audience microphones to connect the band to their fans; Getting even coverage in a large arena; Working the monitor console and the power of snapshots; Loading out of the venue.

For a video introduction see below. - Thanks to Rand Stringer for the headsup!

Neil Peart's "News Weather and Sports" - February 2014

Neil Peart has just updated his website with the latest edition of News, Weather & Sports titled "Bubba And The Professor".  Neil begins by contrasting his two selves...:"Can’t you just picture the ’60s sitcom, or wacky road movie, that would follow that title? Why, I can hear the theme music. The story would hinge on the classic “odd couple” setup, where a methodical, high-minded, would-be aesthete and intellectual is handcuffed to an easygoing neanderthal everythingaholic drummer.  You know, like the two polar sides of one character are tricked into sharing a long, difficult journey?  Oh wait-that’s my life.  What tales our nicknames can tell. The two in this title have been conferred upon one individual-your reporter-at different times in his life. You may imagine they come with a story or two."  Check it out in full here!

Rush Crew Winners at the Tourlink Top Dog Awards

Rush's Front of House sound engineer Brad Madix and video designer David Davidian both won their respective categories last night at the Tourlink Top Dog Awards ceremony in Scottsdale, Arizona.  Howard Ungerleider accepted the awards on their behalf.  The Top Dog Awards are bestowed upon the very best of the best in the touring community as voted by their peers. - Thanks to Greg Nosek for the headsup!

Walmart "Creating American Jobs" Commercial Featuring "Working Man"

On Thursday Walmart kicked off a new advertising campaign announcing their pledge to invest $250 billion in products that support American jobs over the next 10 years.  One of the television commercials used in the campaign features Rush's "Working Man".  Check it out here. - Thanks to Tim Murphy for the headsup!

Signals Feature in new issue of Prog magazine

The new issue of the UK's Prog magazine, featuring Genesis' Mike Rutherford on the cover, includes a feature on Signals.  From the cover teaser, "RUSH, on creating Signals, a synth rock opus." - Thanks RushFanForever for the headsup!

Neil Peart writes foreword for David Phillips' "From The Riser, A Drummer's Perspective II"

In 2010, photographer David Phillips published A Drummer's Perspective: A Photographic Insight into the World of Drummers, a collection of photographs of the world's greatest drummers.  Three years in the making, the followup (part II) is tentatively set for publication later this spring.  The book features Neil Peart on the cover, and in addition Neil also wrote the foreword.

For more info visit http://www.music-images.co.uk/ or https://www.facebook.com/ADrummersPerspective - Thanks David Phillips for the headsup!

Alex Lifeson guest appearance on Keram Malicki-Sanchez album Come to Life

Canadian actor and musician Keram Malicki-Sanchez has started an online campaign via IndieGogo to raise the funds for his album titled Come to Life.  Seven years in the making, the album has been completed and boasts the work of 20 supporting musicians, including Alex Lifeson. Malicki-Sanchez met Lifeson while working on the film Irvine Welsh's Ecstasy, where Lifeson played the role of Dr. Figg.  Lifeson also serves as executive producer on the album.

"Alex did more than just play on the record, he became a mentor and executive producer, and in turn brought mixer Rich Chycki (RUSH, Aerosmith, Jonny Lang, Pink) on to mix 'Mary Magdalene' which set a new standard for the rest of our mixes and mastering engineer Andy Vandette (Metric, David Bowie, Porcupine Tree) to master the the songs, thus some of the most important people responsible for making Rush records sound like they do." - Indiegogo.com

You can read more about the project and the fund raising campaign here. - Thanks to Ed at RushIsABand for the headsup!

Peart & Anderson Tinker With Rush's "Clockwork Angels" at BOOM! - Comicbookresources.com

Comicbookresources.com just published a new article regarding the upcoming "Clockwork Angels" comic book series including a short interview with Neil Peart and Kevin J. Anderson, as well as an exclusive look at the artwork.

Peart took a few moments out of his busy schedule to talk with Comic Book Resources about his history with comics before Anderson went into more detail about the series. "When I was growing up in the '50s and '60s, comic books were a very important part of my life. I devoured hundreds of them, I realize now -- all of the superheroes, and everything else from Archie and Veronica to 'Classics Illustrated,'" Peart told CBR News. "On a family car trip, I might be allowed to select two new comic books from a drugstore rack, and that was about as thrilling as could be for a suburban Canadian boy. Over the years, I shared all the typical flashlight-under-the-blankets experiences. Comic books entertained me, delighted me, inspired me, and definitely taught me a few things, too," Peart continued. "In Grade 8 I won a public-speaking medal for a speech about General Douglas McArthur that was 'researched' in one of the World War II comics that were also popular in that era."  Peart then analyzed his relationship with comics and how that led to this latest adaptation of "Clockwork Angels." "It occurs to me now that not only have I grown up with comic books, but comic books have grown up with me," he explained. "The rise of the graphic novel has been a wonderful evolution, and I am very pleased that 'Clockwork Angels' will be appearing in that genre. Kevin's words and Nick's art are making my visions live and breathe -- a phenomenon I call 'artificial reality' -- and it is exciting to be a part of it."

Kevin J. Anderson also added his comments, and it is confirmed that it will be a 6-issue series with the first issue coming out on March 19th.  For more click here.

Rush album cover featured in iTunes Radio developer preview

Yesterday the website macrumors.com posted a review of the latest Macintosh iOS 7.1 Beta 5 upgrades. One of the items mentioned is that iTunes Radio will now includes a "Buy Album" button; as seen here the album which they used to demonstrate this option is Rush's "The Spirit of Radio Greatest Hits". - Thanks to Blake Willis for the headsup!

Dream Theater discuss Rush Influence on their latest, "The Looking Glass"

Prog-metal group Dream Theater's recent self titled album was released back in September and is available on both CD and iTunes. Music Radar interviewed guitarist John Petrucci where he discussed the Rush influence on the album's track "The Looking Glass":

"The song is definitely a tip of the hat to RUSH. We're such fans - they've been a huge influence on us, and we continue to admire and look up to them. One of the great things about them is how they write really uplifting songs with positive messages, but they always sound cool. It's really interesting. 'The Spirit Of Radio', 'Limelight' - those are big, big songs with big arena-rock riffs in a major key. Even 'Free Will' has that. The songs aren't dark, but they're tough. It's really hard to write something that can cut both ways like that, but that was my goal. 'The Looking Glass' has a few different stylistic changes: There's the RUSH arena-rock major riff, but the verses are tricky as far as time signatures, and the style is a little darker. The pre-choruses are very pretty and flowing - they're in half-time - and the choruses open up and get really hooky. From verse to pre-chorus to chorus to riff, you've got a lot of musical styles, and that helps to keep things interesting."

Click here for more, including the new video for "The Looking Glass". - Thanks to Frank Ray for the headsup!

Power Windows Website turns 16!

Today is the 16th Anniversary of the launch of the Power Windows website at 2112.net.  We went live on February 1st, 1998!

Thanks to everyone who have contributed to this site over the years both in terms of content and Paypal contributions to make it what it is, and thanks again to Blake Willis of 2112.net!