So here we go, decent set this. Aimee Mann looks like a well kept surprise. So is starting with Xanadu...
Set 1:
Intro video (featuring Gershon, Paul Rudd and Jason Segal, Lil' Rush from South Park and a LOT of weirdness)
1) Xanadu
2) Limelight (Geddy introduced Anika Nilles and Loren Gold following the song)
3) Far Cry
4) Subdivisions
5) Freewill
(Neil Peart video tribute with Neil voiceover)
6) Bravado (Neil tribute video playing in background)
7) Caravan
8) La Villa Strangiato
9) Vital Signs
10) The Spirit of Radio
Intermission
Set 2:
11) 2112 (Overture, The Temples of Syrinx, Finale)
12) Distant Early Warning
13) Red Barchetta (Alex Lifeson said a few "words" before the song)
14) Dreamline
15) Natural Science
(2nd Neil Peart tribute video with Neil voiceover)
16) Time Stand Still (with Aimee Mann!!)
17) Red Sector A
18) YYZ
19) The Garden
20) Tom Sawyer (with Lil' Rush intro)
Encore:
21) By-tor and the Snow Dog
22) Working Man
Outro video (featuring Jason Segal and Paul Rudd reprising their I Love You Man roles)
I'm most interested go know if they were any good, or cheated.
Looked a belter!
Quote from: Slim on June 08, 2026, 07:12:54 AMI'm most interested go know if they were any good, or cheated.
There is some YouTube footage, judging by Geddy's voice there was not much cheating..
Nice set list...
Quote from: Thenop on June 08, 2026, 07:52:33 AMQuote from: Slim on June 08, 2026, 07:12:54 AMI'm most interested go know if they were any good, or cheated.
There is some YouTube footage, judging by Geddy's voice there was not much cheating..
Musically they sound great, but yeah Ged needs to stop trying to sing things they released before 1980...
Decent set overall though!
Nice to hear the crowd reaction to Anika smashing Tom Sawyer :)
https://youtu.be/ik4_ffkU25o?si=BkZVWiHHGqeaeOos&t=170
Wow..Aimee Mann doing Time Stands Still.
Quote from: captainkurtz on June 08, 2026, 11:46:26 AMWow..Aimee Mann doing Time Stands Still.
Looked pretty uncomfortable, I thought, stood centre stage until her three words came around :-\
I like the setlist, so just checking with my lad about going to Manc/Glasgow now.
Quote from: pxr5 on June 08, 2026, 12:06:25 PMI like the setlist, so just checking with my lad about going to Manc/Glasgow now.
Remember it has 3 iterations
Great to hear the entire audience cheering Anika during Tom Sawyer. I think that's going to be a regular "thing" now at each show.
And then there are people that buy a ticket and do nothing but film the new drummer - and post the entire show
Quote from: Thenop on June 08, 2026, 04:30:41 PMAnd then there are people that buy a ticket and do nothing but film the new drummer - and post the entire show
I watched LVS from this. Great sound quality, but I just can't imagine going to a show and filming the drummer for two hours.
Did Geddy use the new (blue) Rickenbacker last night?
Quote from: The Picnic Wasp on June 08, 2026, 04:34:21 PMDid Geddy use the new (blue) Rickenbacker last night?
The seafoam thing? Yes.
Quote from: The Picnic Wasp on June 08, 2026, 04:34:21 PMDid Geddy use the new (blue) Rickenbacker last night?
The big surprise, equipment-wise, was Alex playing an Explorer for Caravan :o
Quote from: Thenop on June 08, 2026, 04:58:37 PMQuote from: The Picnic Wasp on June 08, 2026, 04:34:21 PMDid Geddy use the new (blue) Rickenbacker last night?
The seafoam thing? Yes.
I think the Jazz bass he had on The Rick Beato interview is seafoam. The Rickenbacker was built for him for this tour and is kind of a turquoise blue colour, with a gold scratch plate and hardware. Different, but quite nice. I just wondered which song(s) he would use it for. Maybe it has still to appear on another setlist.
Quote from: Thenop on June 08, 2026, 04:30:41 PMAnd then there are people that buy a ticket and do nothing but film the new drummer - and post the entire show
She did a great job, I noticed a stick fumble in the first few mins of Xanadu which could possibly have been a shocker of a start but she recovered well. Certainly has a longer pony tail than NP had,
I think, from what I have seen, she did an amazing job. Not only did she nail the 'Neil' moments, she brings a lot of energy to the stage. It can only get better.
Superimpressed with La Villa, when I play with people and they want to do covers, the alway ask: "so what do you play?", and I say "I play everyting except Hot for Teacher". I am glad no one ever asked me to do La Villa though..
Review of the gig from USA Today:
https://eu.usatoday.com/story/entertainment/music/2026/06/08/rush-concert-review-fifty-something-tour-anika-nilles/90454075007/
I'd never heard the phrase sui generis before. Very apt.
The nice thing about this for me is that they're playing it on the same day I was at YYZ myself.
Wonder if they'll stick with Xanners as the opener..or if they mix it up a bit
I expect for continuity they will keep the opening and Working Man the same, as they do the staples, but change out 8 songs per eve to get 3 different setlists. They practiced 38 tracks, played 22, so 16 left.
TS, tSoR, YYZ, WM, Xanadu, 2112, Limelight, Subdivisions, The Garden and the ones with the Neil tributes attached will remain I suspect.
Vital Signs, Far Cry, Freewill maybe, Caravan, Dreamline, Time Stand Still (I don't think Ms. Mann will travel with them..), By-Tor, maybe they will change those out.
I expect CttH to make an appearance, (god forbid) Roll the Bones, Anthem maybe. Who knows?
If I think about what might be considered the "must have" tunes - what are they?
Spirit of Radio, Tom Sawyer, Limelight, Closer to the Heart, Xanadu?
None of them had been recorded when they toured the UK for the first time. Odd thought now. I was most hoping to hear 2112, Anthem, What You're Doing and Something for Nothing.
Quote from: Slim on June 09, 2026, 12:44:21 PMIf I think about what might be considered the "must have" tunes - what are they?
Spirit of Radio, Tom Sawyer, Limelight, Closer to the Heart, Xanadu?
None of them had been recorded when they toured the UK for the first time. Odd thought now. I was most hoping to hear 2112, Anthem, What You're Doing and Something for Nothing.
Anthem should always be played IMHO.
Probably the first track that really knocked me out when I was just two tracks into my first Rush LP, ATWAS. I think it was the complexity of the intro, the thought-provoking lyrics and the dynamic shifts that got me, I'd never heard anything like it!
Quote from: David L on June 09, 2026, 01:43:17 PMQuote from: Slim on June 09, 2026, 12:44:21 PMIf I think about what might be considered the "must have" tunes - what are they?
Spirit of Radio, Tom Sawyer, Limelight, Closer to the Heart, Xanadu?
None of them had been recorded when they toured the UK for the first time. Odd thought now. I was most hoping to hear 2112, Anthem, What You're Doing and Something for Nothing.
Anthem should always be played IMHO.
Probably the first track that really knocked me out when I was just two tracks into my first Rush LP, ATWAS. I think it was the complexity of the intro, the thought-provoking lyrics and the dynamic shifts that got me, I'd never heard anything like it!
Always loved Anthem but think it would be a vocal disaster these days. I'd hate to hear wurraaaaaaalld become a feeble wurrrlld.😁
It is fun picking all this apart, I have just seen Annika absolutely nail By-Tor, and especially the ending is very challenging there. It really is, especially when you have not written it yourself, to make it your own like that, impressive.
Just hoping Meinl has send her away with enough cymbals for the tour, oh my she hits them hard ;D
Anyway - as you were.
Is it all by-tor or the short version.. the ATWAS version is just the best..
Quote from: Fishy on June 09, 2026, 07:55:28 PMIs it all by-tor or the short version.. the ATWAS version is just the best..
Short 5 minute something
Quote from: Thenop on June 09, 2026, 08:47:14 PMQuote from: Fishy on June 09, 2026, 07:55:28 PMIs it all by-tor or the short version.. the ATWAS version is just the best..
Short 5 minute something
Goddam.....
Quote from: Fishy on June 09, 2026, 07:55:28 PMIs it all by-tor or the short version.. the ATWAS version is just the best..
I'd rather hear a full version of By-Tor than Overture/Temples tbh. They've been done to death IMHO.
The Necromancer in full - now that would be special! Might even look for a ticket if they were playing that!
NIGHT 02
So.. 11 changes - counting 2112. But they played 2112 before? Yes, but this time they played the whole thing!
Anthem? YES
Bangkok? YES
Anyway, lloks like Xanadu is the tour opener, and WM the closer. No By-Tor this time, replaced by Finding My Way.
I won't list all changes, you can figure that out yourself..
Set 1:
Intro video (Xanadudes)
1) Xanadu
2) The Spirit of Radio (Band Introductions)
3) The Analog Kid
4) Freewill
5) Subdivisions
6) Bravado (Neil tribute 1 - Neil video lead in with voiceover)
7) Leave That Thing Alone
8) The Trees
9) Headlong Flight
10) Limelight
Intermission
Set 2:
11) 2112 (all 7 parts)
12) Animate
13) Closer to the Heart
14) A Passage to Bangkok
15) Time Stand Still - with Aimee Mann (Neil tribute 2 - Neil video lead in with voiceover)
16) YYZ
17) Anthem
18) Red Barchetta
19) Witch Hunt
20) Tom Sawyer (with Lil' Rush intro)
Encore:
21) Finding My Way
22) Working Man
Outro video (featuring Jason Segal and Paul Rudd reprising their I Love You Man roles)
Unheard of and still 6 songs to come allegedly.
Wow they really are shaking things up, very happy with Witch Hunt :)
Setlist #2 > setlist #1
Quote from: Ace2112 on June 10, 2026, 08:20:54 AMWow they really are shaking things up, very happy with Witch Hunt :)
Except for Camera Eye they now did all of MP
| NIGHT #01 | NIGHT #02 |
| Xanadu | Xanadu |
| Limelight | The Spirit of Radio |
| Far Cry | The Analog Kid |
| Subdivisions | Freewill |
| Freewill | Subdivisions |
| Bravado | Bravado |
| Caravan | Leave That Thing Alone |
| La Villa Strangiato | The Trees |
| Vital Signs | Headlong Flight |
| The Spirit of Radio | Limelight |
| Intermission | Intermission |
| 2112 (Overture, The Temples of Syrinx, Finale) | 2112 (full) |
| Distant Early Warning | Animate |
| Red Barchetta | Closer to the Heart |
| Dreamline | A Passage to Bangkok |
| Natural Science | Time Stand Still |
| Time Stand Still | YYZ |
| Red Sector A | Anthem |
| YYZ | Red Barchetta |
| The Garden | Witch Hunt |
| Tom Sawyer | Tom Sawyer |
| Encore | Encore |
| By-tor and the Snow Dog | Finding My Way |
| Working Man | Working Man |
https://youtu.be/5uQzsyvI5t4
Quote from: Nick on June 10, 2026, 06:56:25 AMUnheard of and still 6 songs to come allegedly.
C'mon Marathon....
Quote from: Thenop on June 10, 2026, 10:36:48 AMQuote from: Ace2112 on June 10, 2026, 10:13:31 AMQuote from: Nick on June 10, 2026, 06:56:25 AMUnheard of and still 6 songs to come allegedly.
C'mon Marathon....
yes nothing from PoW yet :(
Bet we'll just get Mystic Rhythms just to annoy me, specifically :P
Territories😀
Quote from: David L on June 10, 2026, 08:31:46 AMSetlist #2 > setlist #1
Yes, prefer #2. Maybe #3 will be the winner. I suppose running orders have to be in set patterns to suit work which happens in the background, so the set lists can't be further randomly shuffled.
Annika doing her take on Anthem, less angular, more fluent, especially in the intro. Very tight musically though.
OK, so there are 4 songs left to play to reach all rehearsed songs. A photo f the rehearsal sheet was posted elsewhere and even though this is a spoiler topic, I still thought not to spoil it. So you can see it, if you want.
If not, don't look and find out from the next setlist.
EDIT: It is 5 songs, so one more
Sorry but you are not allowed to view spoiler contents.
I sense also the songs are back to their correct tempo, TAK was really driven whereas the last few tours the songs seemed slower, or maybe it's just me.
Quote from: Nick on June 10, 2026, 06:10:22 PMI sense also the songs are back to their correct tempo, TAK was really driven whereas the last few tours the songs seemed slower, or maybe it's just me.
It's not you, they pushed some of them up. They sound a bit less 'bulky', but also less heavy because of that. A different drumstyle will do that. Technique vs hard hitting.
I wish they'd drop YYZ. I'm just tired of it. All the YouTube bass wannabes have worn it out and I only tolerate it now for Geddy's brief solo snippets.
Alex playing an Epiphone. By the way Geddy's voice is awful on this.
But why's he got the neck pickup installed the wrong way round? Has a 'Greeny' mod been applied to it?
(https://i.ibb.co/zhfPNCSW/wrongway.avif)
Quote from: Slim on June 11, 2026, 03:45:36 PMBut why's he got the neck pickup installed the wrong way round? Has a 'Greeny' mod been applied to it?
(https://i.ibb.co/zhfPNCSW/wrongway.avif)
Don't know why on the pickup but I suppose this is just promotion for his new Epiphone ES-355 1976 Reissue Signature released this week. Going for £1199 at the moment. I'll hold off just now but might weaken if the price drops later. If I do then I'll move on my Epiphone Dot Royale which was the only white lookalike I could find at the time at a reasonable price.
Quote from: Slim on June 11, 2026, 03:41:43 PM
Alex playing an Epiphone. By the way Geddy's voice is awful on this.
I thought Geddy might have used his new Rickenbacker for this. I haven't seen it yet.
I thought Geddy's voice was poor on Bravado too, first night anyway.
I was watching a mobile recording of the first night and I realise that's not the best way in which to judge these things but I thought the vocals were a little high in the mix and so didn't flatter Geddy. The backing vocals from Loren Gold sound a little odd too. However, the level of the vocals may well have been due to the video being recorded high up on Geddy's side, may be more balanced elsewhere in the arena(?).
It's a sign of the times that the whole show is available to watch more or less immediately after the house lights go up - mixed feelings on that.
Quote from: The Picnic Wasp on June 11, 2026, 02:36:33 PMI wish they'd drop YYZ. I'm just tired of it. All the YouTube bass wannabes have worn it out and I only tolerate it now for Geddy's brief solo snippets.
wish they'd drop tracks from MP .. it's just been beaten to death really..
Night 3 is The Fishers special
And still we have songs unplayed :-) They are really mixing it up
Set 1:
Intro video (Xanadudes)
1) Xanadu
2) Dreamline
3) Subdivisions
4) Headlong Flight
5) Bravado (Neil Peart tribute)
6) Red Sector A
7) La Villa Strangiato
8) Anthem
9) New World Man
10) The Spirit of Radio
Intermission
Set 2:
11) Tom Sawyer (with Lil' Rush intro)
12) Red Barchetta
13) YYZ
14) Limelight
15) The Camera Eye
16) Witch Hunt
17) Vital Signs
18) Time Stand Still - with Aimee Mann (Neil Peart tribute)
19) Closer to the Heart
20) 2112 (Overture, The Temples of Syrinx, Finale)
Encore:
21) By-tor and the Snow Dog
22) Working Man
Outro video (featuring Jason Segal and Paul Rudd reprising their I Love You Man roles)
Killer setlists...
No I wouldn't thank you for setlist 2 tbh
| NIGHT #01 | NIGHT #02 | NIGHT #03 |
| Xanadu | Xanadu | Xanadu |
| Limelight | The Spirit of Radio | Dreamline |
| Far Cry | The Analog Kid | Subdivisions |
| Subdivisions | Freewill | Headlong Flight |
| Freewill | Subdivisions | Bravado (Neil Peart tribute) |
| Bravado | Bravado | Red Sector A |
| Caravan | Leave That Thing Alone | La Villa Strangiato |
| La Villa Strangiato | The Trees | Anthem |
| Vital Signs | Headlong Flight | New World Man |
| The Spirit of Radio | Limelight | The Spirit of Radio |
| Intermission | Intermission | Intermission |
| 2112 (Overture, The Temples of Syrinx, Finale) | 2112 (full) | Tom Sawyer |
| Distant Early Warning | Animate | Red Barchetta |
| Red Barchetta | Closer to the Heart | YYZ |
| Dreamline | A Passage to Bangkok | Limelight |
| Natural Science | Time Stand Still | The Camera Eye |
| Time Stand Still | YYZ | Witch Hunt |
| Red Sector A | Anthem | Vital Signs |
| YYZ | Red Barchetta | Time Stand Still |
| The Garden | Witch Hunt | Closer to the Heart |
| Tom Sawyer | Tom Sawyer | 2112 (Overture, The Temples of Syrinx, Finale) |
| Encore | Encore | Encore |
| By-tor and the Snow Dog | Finding My Way | By-tor and the Snow Dog |
| Working Man | Working Man | Working Man |
Quote from: Thenop on June 12, 2026, 06:46:31 AMAnd still we have songs unplayed :-)
I assume one of those is The Pass
Noppers you're going to need a bigger spreadsheet..
Quote from: Fishy on June 12, 2026, 09:15:14 AMNoppers you're going to need a bigger spreadsheet..
Yeah.. at some point I'll stop or go offsite
Nice wee bass failure last night at start of 2112. I love that sort of thing. Makes it more real.
Edit: Watched it again. Geddy looks a bit miffed that Alex didn't seem to notice the bass was missing. He's standing stage left with his bass in his hand gesturing towards Lerxst who keeps playing. 😂🤣
https://m.facebook.com/groups/cygnusx1net/permalink/27365447333084975/?
Personally disappointed that my favourite album, Power Windows, doesn't get a look in.
The nightly shake up of the set list seems to suggest that Neil was the one who insisted on keeping changes to a minimum
Anything from VT.. not that I'm complaining
Yes, so without wanting to spoil, even in a spoiler topic, not all albums are represented. MIA are:
Caress of Steel
Power Windows
T4E
(Feedback EP)
Vapor Trails, and from what I have read no tracks from these albums will be played. Or better: they were not rehearsed.
If all goes well I expect Presto to make an appearance (the album, not the song unfortunately - a personal favourite).
They just chose to emphasize the 4 most popular ones, and 2112. I am happy to see the debut get 2 in, FBN as well. I really like FBN.
On the other hand, I really like Power Windows and we see nothing there, and the GUP and HYF are not the most inspired ones for me either.
That they chose to represent the latter day albums quite poorly, well, what would they have played off of S&A apart from Far Cry then?
CA is represented quite well so far and that is no surprise given that the boys have stated they love that album.
Not that it matters, but if they had represented all albums I would have liked to hear the Necromancer (it has been mentioned before), Marathon or Manhattan Project, and the title tracks for T4E and VT. I would have given Feedback a miss entirely, never liked the thing.
Oh well, if they feel rejuvenated, and Ged's voice can sort of keep up (Loren Gold could back it up for instance) who knows what can happen?
Quote from: Thenop on June 12, 2026, 04:06:10 PMYes, so without wanting to spoil, even in a spoiler topic, not all albums are represented. MIA are:
Caress of Steel
Power Windows
T4E
(Feedback EP)
Vapor Trails, and from what I have read no tracks from these albums will be played. Or better: they were not rehearsed.
If all goes well I expect Presto to make an appearance (the album, not the song unfortunately - a personal favourite).
They just chose to emphasize the 4 most popular ones, and 2112. I am happy to see the debut get 2 in, FBN as well. I really like FBN.
On the other hand, I really like Power Windows and we see nothing there, and the GUP and HYF are not the most inspired ones for me either.
That they chose to represent the latter day albums quite poorly, well, what would they have played off of S&A apart from Far Cry then?
CA is represented quite well so far and that is no surprise given that the boys have stated they love that album.
Not that it matters, but if they had represented all albums I would have liked to hear the Necromancer (it has been mentioned before), Marathon or Manhattan Project, and the title tracks for T4E and VT. I would have given Feedback a miss entirely, never liked the thing.
Oh well, if they feel rejuvenated, and Ged's voice can sort of keep up (Loren Gold could back it up for instance) who knows what can happen?
Thanks for the ongoing analysis, Nop, very interesting. I've a feeling MP is being hit heavily for those with very few Rush albums in their collection but feel they must attend this probably last event.
No PW still. And maybe not at all. Would love anything apart from The Big Money which has been done to death. Grand Designs would be incredible.
Middletown Dreams would be amazing. And not too much of a strain on those vocal chords
I really thought Alex was dropping a strong hint for Marathon during his Rick Beato interview. Can only hope.
Absolute disgrace that MP is over represented.. just pandering to the lip service
fans ....shame on you.. def not getting a ticket now
Alex playing an SG. He's such a guitar tart, I find it a bit disappointing.
(https://i.ibb.co/pvJGDK0H/alexsg.avif)
https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-live-reviews/rush-tour-night-three-review-setlist-moving-pictures-1235576697/
There is a photo of Geddy playing the new Rickenbacker but which night or song wasn't indicated.
Quote from: Slim on June 13, 2026, 11:42:34 AMAlex playing an SG. He's such a guitar tart, I find it a bit disappointing.
(https://i.ibb.co/pvJGDK0H/alexsg.avif)
https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-live-reviews/rush-tour-night-three-review-setlist-moving-pictures-1235576697/
Yes, I wish they would stick to their iconic image guitars. Am I correct in thinking his original white ES-355 went to auction? I find it difficult to understand why he would let that go.
Quote from: The Picnic Wasp on June 13, 2026, 11:50:01 AMYes, I wish they would stick to their iconic image guitars. Am I correct in thinking his original white ES-355 went to auction? I find it difficult to understand why he would let that go.
Yes, it did. When I first saw them he played that guitar all night, I think .. might have had the 335 as well. I was disappointed, I really wanted to see the Les Paul from the ATWAS album photos.
I wonder if Alex still has the 335?
This has been posted by Loren Gold, excellent sound and presumably the screen feed.
https://youtu.be/tlTIMMAPZws?is=aR0IMZJ5uTlrexw4
Quote from: The Picnic Wasp on June 13, 2026, 11:46:07 AMThere is a photo of Geddy playing the new Rickenbacker but which night or song wasn't indicated.
Subdivisions and By-Tor is where he uses it so far.
If you want to know what was actually rehearsed and which guitars Alex uses for what song:
(https://i.ibb.co/hRpJT50p/5259-f.jpg)
This is great, Nop. I saw this elsewhere but this is much clearer and easy to read. Odd names he gives his guitars.
I know "Zlata" is the gold 355, "Jenny" is the white Epi 355, "Princess" is the white LP Custom.
The Pass and The Anarchist make tour debuts tonight...
And those are all the songs rehearsed played:
Night #4
Set 1:
Intro video (Xanadudes)
1) Xanadu
2) Limelight
3) Subdivisions
4) The Pass
5) Freewill
6) Bravado (Neil Peart tribute)
7) The Camera Eye
8) The Trees
9) The Anarchist
10) The Spirit of Radio
Intermission
Set 2:
11) 2112 (Full song)
12) Far Cry
13) Distant Early Warning
14) New World Man
15) Vital Signs
16) Time Stand Still - with Aimee Mann (Neil Peart tribute)
17) YYZ
18) A Farewell to Kings
19) The Garden
20) Tom Sawyer (with Lil' Rush intro)
Encore:
21) Finding My Way
22) Working Man
Outro video (featuring Jason Segal and Paul Rudd reprising their I Love You Man roles)
Wow. AFTK. :(
:o Wow, AFTK!
Absolutely worth mentioning twice ;D First time since 1979.
No VT/PoW or Tfe.
I wonder if they will add to the mix during the tour?
So now that we have all songs played:
Rush (1974)
Total songs: 2
Finding My Way
Working Man
Fly by Night (1975)
Total songs: 2
Anthem
By-Tor & The Snow Dog
2112 (1976)
Total songs: 2
2112 (Played as a truncated suite or in full on alternating nights)
A Passage to Bangkok
A Farewell to Kings (1977)
Total songs: 3
A Farewell to Kings
Xanadu
Closer to the Heart
Hemispheres (1978)
Total songs: 2
La Villa Strangiato
The Trees
Permanent Waves (1980)
Total songs: 3
The Spirit of Radio
Freewill
Natural Science
Moving Pictures (1981)
Total songs: 7
Tom Sawyer
Red Barchetta
YYZ""Limelight
The Camera Eye
Witch Hunt
Vital Signs
Signals (1982)
Total songs: 3
Subdivisions
The Analog Kid
New World Man
Grace Under Pressure (1984)
Total songs: 2
Distant Early Warning
Red Sector A
Hold Your Fire (1987)
Total songs: 1
Time Stand Still
Presto (1989)
Total songs: 1
The Pass
Roll the Bones (1991)
Total songs:2
Bravado
Dreamline
Counterparts (1993)
Total songs: 2
Animate
Leave That Thing Alone
Snakes & Arrows (2007)
Total songs: 1
Far Cry
Clockwork Angels (2012)
Total songs: 4
Caravan
Headlong Flight
The Garden
The Anarchist
Quote from: Nick on June 14, 2026, 10:19:10 AMNo VT/PoW or Tfe.
I wonder if they will add to the mix during the tour?
No CoS either.
Personally, I think Caravan is a bit of a stinker :-\
Agreed, always struggled with it.
Quote from: David L on June 14, 2026, 11:37:01 AMPersonally, I think Caravan is a bit of a stinker :-\
Definitely one of those Logic computer sessions where Geddy has cobbled together a series of bits from their jams. Has no natural flow. Shame as it has some decent lyrics here and there, but they don't seem to fit the music which is just too angular and irritating.
Replace it with BTW and everybody's happy
Quote from: Nick on June 14, 2026, 01:04:57 PMReplace it with BTW and everybody's happy
Yes, don't understand that been missed. A real fan favourite which hasn't been worn out. Not too hard on the voice either.
No VT or TfE. No loss.
No Power Windows is just, well, it saddens me.
No CoS (for me) is no biggy. Although they usually slip something in even if only in a medley.
No Power Windows.
Assuming Aimee Mann doesn't travel outside US/Canada, can we expect Time Stand Still to be dropped and replaced?
Ho hum. Only time will tell (different band I know).
Quote from: R6GYY on June 14, 2026, 06:27:50 PMAssuming Aimee Mann doesn't travel outside US/Canada, can we expect Time Stand Still to be dropped and replaced?
Ho hum. Only time will tell (different band I know).
I expect these were the sole 4 performances of Aimee Mann. And nothing from PoW has been rehearsed, it is simply not part of the setlist currently.
But who knows? Maybe at some point its Time Again to make your Wildest Dreams come One Step Closer?
It seems mad in light of the fact they have an extra keyboard player and POW is full of excellent keyboards.
Drop Caravan for BTW
Drop Headlong for Marathon
Drop New World Man for Earthshine
Drop Caravan for Middletown Dreams
Drop Headlong for Show Don't Tell
Drop New World Man for Kid Gloves
Drop Time Stands Still for Prime Mover!
Drop everything from MP to anything else..
Quote from: Fishy on June 15, 2026, 08:19:00 AMDrop everything from MP to anything else..
You can't upset the casuals. Them's the rules.
Quote from: David L on June 15, 2026, 08:46:58 AMQuote from: Fishy on June 15, 2026, 08:19:00 AMDrop everything from MP to anything else..
You can't upset the casuals. Them's the rules.
Sod the casuals.
I remember not so long ago I was just hoping they'd tour again, even if they only played mostly instrumentals and easy on the vocal cords acoustic stuff.
Now I'm frustrated they're not performing CoS and Hemispheres in their entirety, (and moaning about ticket prices and £100 hoodies).
Is anyone else getting tired of the use of the effin' word?
Just seems like perpetual promotion.
I noticed Alex's language was much more civilised during the Rick Beato interview.
Quote from: The Picnic Wasp on June 16, 2026, 02:10:59 PMIs anyone else getting tired of the use of the effin' word?
Just seems like perpetual promotion.
I noticed Alex's language was much more civilised during the Rick Beato interview.
I don't think it's particularly clever to use that word in the films accompanying the live shows given that there are now lots of aged fans that delight in introducing their young kids to the band by taking them to the shows.
How do you explain that the band you consider to be the coolest on the planet and whose lyrics have meant so much to you seem obsessed with using that profanity? Awkward conversations ensue, no doubt :-\
Quote from: David L on June 16, 2026, 05:17:27 PMQuote from: The Picnic Wasp on June 16, 2026, 02:10:59 PMIs anyone else getting tired of the use of the effin' word?
Just seems like perpetual promotion.
I noticed Alex's language was much more civilised during the Rick Beato interview.
I don't think it's particularly clever to use that word in the films accompanying the live shows given that there are now lots of aged fans that delight in introducing their young kids to the band by taking them to the shows.
How do you explain that the band you consider to be the coolest on the planet and whose lyrics have meant so much to you seem obsessed with using that profanity? Awkward conversations ensue, no doubt :-\
Ever since his book title, Geddy has used that sanitized version of the F word whenever he can fit it in somewhere. When it appeared in their thank you to the fans for the early shows, it just made me think that Geddy seems to control all the narrative for stuff the band put out.
I don't think that statement would represent the expression of gratitude by the rest of the band. Strange to write rest of the band, there being four of them now.
It's difficult to be offended by expletives these days when it's everywhere and all the time, but it does taint the image when it's people you otherwise respect. Leave it to David Grohl. It's his thing.
Quote from: The Picnic Wasp on June 16, 2026, 08:18:06 PMStrange to write rest of the band, there being four of them now.
No, the 'band' are 2, the other 2 are hired hands.
They have no say in any substantial matters, they are not 'members' or 'partners' in any way.
The whole band notion, as a concept, is nowadays largely a business venture.
The 2 hired hands get a fixed sum per show (Annika most likely a bigger sum than the man in the shadows).
Quote from: Thenop on June 16, 2026, 08:44:36 PMQuote from: The Picnic Wasp on June 16, 2026, 08:18:06 PMStrange to write rest of the band, there being four of them now.
No, the 'band' are 2, the other 2 are hired hands.
They have no say in any substantial matters, they are not 'members' or 'partners' in any way.
The whole band notion, as a concept, is nowadays largely a business venture.
The 2 hired hands get a fixed sum per show (Annika most likely a bigger sum than the man in the shadows).
I have found myself wondering recently what her pay would be for this.
I did use the term band loosely though, what with there being four musicians onstage, but I don't suppose I actually think of them as that band Rush (or Iron Maiden) in a complete, satisfying sense.
If it had been Lee/Lifeson plus others I'd still have bought a ticket, but I wonder if worldwide demand for that would have allowed a European leg, or even so many dates stateside for that matter.
Quote from: The Picnic Wasp on June 16, 2026, 09:16:49 PMQuote from: Thenop on June 16, 2026, 08:44:36 PMQuote from: The Picnic Wasp on June 16, 2026, 08:18:06 PMStrange to write rest of the band, there being four of them now.
No, the 'band' are 2, the other 2 are hired hands.
They have no say in any substantial matters, they are not 'members' or 'partners' in any way.
The whole band notion, as a concept, is nowadays largely a business venture.
The 2 hired hands get a fixed sum per show (Annika most likely a bigger sum than the man in the shadows).
I have found myself wondering recently what her pay would be for this.
I did use the term band loosely though, what with there being four musicians onstage, but I don't suppose I actually think of them as that band Rush (or Iron Maiden) in a complete, satisfying sense.
If it had been Lee/Lifeson plus others I'd still have bought a ticket, but I wonder if worldwide demand for that would have allowed a European leg, or even so many dates stateside for that matter.
I'd say at the end of the tour she'll be sort of financial indepedant. It's 82 shows (so far). I haven't fully looked into this, but tours this size are 'bought' by promotors, so the band had a fixed fee per night. Which is one income stream.
There there is the merch, that's another income stream. Considering they haven't toured in 10 years they wil sell a lot of that as well.
What is left for the band members after all cost are taken out (taxes, crew, equipment, logistics) needs to be split. I don't know but I am pretty sure the Peart family gets a nice cut as well.
All in all I'd say Geddy and Alex will walk away at the end of the tour with somewhere 15-20 MMUSD. Annika, maybe 1 MMUSD, if she's lucky. And Loren Gold a, little less that that.
The Peart family I'd say arond 5 MMUSD.
Wild guesses from my side of course, but touring costs are extremly high these days.
They certainly seem to have spent quite a bit on the "show".
Maybe I'm over romanticising but it's also nice to know that all 4 want to be there as well.
I'd like to know how much the keyboard guy is actually doing..?
Quote from: Fishy on June 17, 2026, 10:11:29 AMI'd like to know how much the keyboard guy is actually doing..?
Very selfish of Geddy to still insist on hogging the keyboard for Tom Sawyer etc when they have a man standing there twiddling his thumbs! It's a bit bizarre really
I'd rather see Geddy doing those signature parts, if I'm honest. I'm sure his weekly wage and and high end hotels and catering is enough to ease any disappointment Loren might have.
Quote from: The Picnic Wasp on June 16, 2026, 08:18:06 PMQuote from: David L on June 16, 2026, 05:17:27 PMQuote from: The Picnic Wasp on June 16, 2026, 02:10:59 PMIs anyone else getting tired of the use of the effin' word?
Just seems like perpetual promotion.
I noticed Alex's language was much more civilised during the Rick Beato interview.
I don't think it's particularly clever to use that word in the films accompanying the live shows given that there are now lots of aged fans that delight in introducing their young kids to the band by taking them to the shows.
How do you explain that the band you consider to be the coolest on the planet and whose lyrics have meant so much to you seem obsessed with using that profanity? Awkward conversations ensue, no doubt :-\
Ever since his book title, Geddy has used that sanitized version of the F word whenever he can fit it in somewhere. When it appeared in their thank you to the fans for the early shows, it just made me think that Geddy seems to control all the narrative for stuff the band put out.
I don't think that statement would represent the expression of gratitude by the rest of the band. Strange to write rest of the band, there being four of them now.
It's difficult to be offended by expletives these days when it's everywhere and all the time, but it does taint the image when it's people you otherwise respect. Leave it to David Grohl. It's his thing.
I was more disappointed about his need to post about great Israeli innovators a few months ago...Ged, man...nearly everyone hates Israel now...Netanyahu is the kind of guy I'd expect you to be railing against given what your parents went though and the fact that you have been singing Red Sector A for the last 42 years...
Quote from: dom on June 17, 2026, 10:20:18 AMQuote from: Fishy on June 17, 2026, 10:11:29 AMI'd like to know how much the keyboard guy is actually doing..?
Very selfish of Geddy to still insist on hogging the keyboard for Tom Sawyer etc when they have a man standing there twiddling his thumbs! It's a bit bizarre really
Yeah why had Geddy got any keyboards.. thought the point was to free him up of all that stuff..
On the swearing - I do just find it vulgar, on YouTube. Personally I never used to be particularly sweary until I worked in the City, then Canary Wharf where it's just part of the culture. You'd never say this or that service, interface, network or server was broken, always "fucked".
I like swearing when used properly for emphasis. Some people seem to use it like punctuation. I watched an interview with dear old "Fast" Eddie Clarke and it seemed to be a bit like a nervous tic.
I think the main issue with Geddy is that he's using it in public where he doesn't need to. Maybe compensating for his age.
Quote from: Slim on June 17, 2026, 04:37:26 PMOn the swearing - I do just find it vulgar, on YouTube. Personally I never used to be particularly sweary until I worked in the City, then Canary Wharf where it's just part of the culture. You'd never say this or that service, interface, network or server was broken, always "fucked".
I like swearing when used properly for emphasis. Some people seem to use it like punctuation. I watched an interview with dear old "Fast" Eddie Clarke and it seemed to be a bit like a nervous tic.
I think the main issue with Geddy is that he's using it in public where he doesn't need to. Maybe compensating for his age.
That, and the fact he clearly thinks of himself as the big boss, despite his regular statements in the past about Rush being a democracy. He also regularly talks over Alex in interviews which I find annoying. I suppose he does describe himself as Mr Bossypants in his book so for that and for the fact he's hugely talented and that I've always admired him, he's forgiven.
Eat the carbolic!
So, the Mexico show, night 5, no real surprises but they changed one encore, from By-Tor to Finding My Way.
I wonder if this will be set of the basic set for the 'one off' shows, it is the same as LA night 3, so that is the MP in full set.
It might be, it is the crowd pleaser of course, just depends on which crowd you belong to.
Set 1:
Intro video (Xanadudes)
1) Xanadu
2) Dreamline
3) Subdivisions
4) Headlong Flight
5) Bravado (Neil Peart tribute)
6) Red Sector A
7) La Villa Strangiato
8) Anthem
9) New World Man
10) The Spirit of Radio
Intermission
Set 2:
11) Tom Sawyer
12) Red Barchetta
13) YYZ
14) Limelight
15) The Camera Eye
16) Witch Hunt
17) Vital Signs
18) Time Stand Still (Neil Peart tribute)
19) Closer to the Heart
20) 2112 (Overture, The Temples of Syrinx, Finale)
Encore:
21) Finding My Way
22) Working Man
Outro video (featuring Jason Segal and Paul Rudd reprising their I Love You Man roles)
If I only make one show I hope I miss the complete MP set. I wonder if I count from night one Europe would my calculation be correct or would the order be a continuation from before the break?
I'd prefer all of Signals or PW rather than MP.
Has the changing set list made anyone here buy an extra date?
I'm glad they are doing a band bow at the end as well.
So much warmth and interest for AN, and deservedly so, but does it distract from the honouring of Neil, it seems to me it's been so successful so far they are having a rebirth rather than looking back.
So Finding and WM encores.. I assume the keyboard bloke is tucked up in bed early doors
Quote from: Fishy on June 20, 2026, 07:47:05 PMSo Finding and WM encores.. I assume the keyboard bloke is tucked up in bed early doors
Geddy probably meets him in the bar later and tells him "it's not you - it's me. It's all about me". 😆
Quote from: The Picnic Wasp on June 20, 2026, 04:07:13 PMI'd prefer all of Signals or PW rather than MP.
I think we all would................but it's not about
us, alas.
And Mexico city night #2.
Similar to LA night #2 with 2 changes - By-Tor for FMW, which makes sense, they swapped them with the previous show. And, a bit more interesting: Anthem is out and Distant Early Warning is in.
Are they mixing it up to see what they like best? All I know is thatit's very interesting to see that they can, what feels like randomly, pick andchoose songs to replace others. With complete disregard of period even. Anthem and DEW and not exaclty compatible in that respect..
Set 1:
Intro video (Xanadudes)
1) Xanadu
2) The Spirit of Radio
3) The Analog Kid
4) Freewill
5) Subdivisions
6) Bravado (Neil Peart tribute)
7) Leave That Thing Alone
8) The Trees
9) The Anarchist
10) Limelight
Intermission
Set 2:
11) 2112 (Full song)
12) Animate
13) Closer to the Heart
14) A Passage to Bangkok
15) Time Stand Still (Neil Peart tribute)
16) YYZ
17) Distant Early Warning
18) Red Barchetta
19) Witch Hunt
20) Tom Sawyer (with Lil' Rush intro)
Encore:
21) By-tor and the Snow Dog
22) Working Man
Outro video (featuring Jason Segal and Paul Rudd reprising their I Love You Man roles)
These setlists are 🔥
By tor and Working again gives the keyboard guy an early exit
Quote from: Fishy on June 21, 2026, 08:39:57 AMBy tor and Working again gives the keyboard guy an early exit
I think he does some supplemental chording, even in WM. FMW as well
The first Fort Worth show: exact same setlist as night 1 in LA.
No need to list it, only useful if something changes.
Quote from: Thenop on June 21, 2026, 09:00:48 AMQuote from: Fishy on June 21, 2026, 08:39:57 AMBy tor and Working again gives the keyboard guy an early exit
I think he does some supplemental chording, even in WM. FMW as well
Would he be missed if he didn't make his way to the stage in the first place?
Quote from: dom on June 27, 2026, 07:15:03 AMQuote from: Thenop on June 21, 2026, 09:00:48 AMQuote from: Fishy on June 21, 2026, 08:39:57 AMBy tor and Working again gives the keyboard guy an early exit
I think he does some supplemental chording, even in WM. FMW as well
Would he be missed if he didn't make his way to the stage in the first place?
You mean: if he's not Finding his Way?
No clue, he's there so he is doing something. I haven't studied YouTube clips too much to say. He does probably more than we realise.
Saw a clip of YYZ from last night...sounded really off.
Making more money than ever for considerably lower quality product, I'm pretty sad about it on the whole.
"We can't just go and get another drummer, and go out and play concerts, and make new material; it just would not be the same; it would just be a money ploy." - Alex Lifeson, he wasn't wrong.
Also all the fucking pathetic fanbois on Reddit and elsewhere who were saying that the pair had too much integrity to do this a couple of years ago are now fawning over them and pretending it's not about the money.
I postured briefly, but I was never going to miss this. However, the parts I've rationed myself to on YouTube haven't impressed me the way they seem to be exciting others.
Anika is wonderfully talented. She was never going to be as good as Neil in his own band with parts he wrote. How could she? But her style seems very stiff and rigid compared to their original sound, which was very powerful yet fluid.
However, there's the rub and I've thought so for years. Their original sound. I feel that's been degraded, not just by Geddy's ageing vocals, but by the fact that they seem to base their production of songs on how they sounded live in the past. I think back in the good old days they tried to emulate the sound of the studio versions of their work. That seems to have kind of evolved, and not in a good way over the last few tours.
It's almost as if they listen to live recordings prior to rehearsal and a bit like using magnetic tape you lose something every time you use it. To me it's all a bit poor version of themselves, verging on tribute band levels.
Maybe it's the arena thing. Long gone are the days of nearly intimate settings and loudness and theatrical stage sets are the order of entertainment for the masses, who let's face it, probably stream rather then buy vinyl or CDs. I'll still enjoy it I suppose. They're indelibly stamped as a part of my life so no doubt that will conjure up emotions even if I miss out on the goosebumps of their earlier magnificence.
Quote from: The Picnic Wasp on June 28, 2026, 12:07:39 PMAnika is wonderfully talented. She was never going to be as good as Neil in his own band with parts he wrote. How could she? But her style seems very stiff and rigid compared to their original sound, which was very powerful yet fluid.
As much as I like and appreciate Neil and his talent, if there is one thing he was not it was fluid.
I hear an infinite amount of fluidity in Annika's approach of the drums.
Maybe you refer to the overall fluidity and interplay between the threesome, but there's a reason I usually refer to Neil as Ol'Clunky...
The only time I heard Neil sort of swing was on T4e. Upon his return he was to his usual power drumming style. Which suited the band great mind you.
I think it's partly that they don't have the technical skill any more, but partly that they aren't as connected to the music. They've acquainted themselves with the material by listening back to music they hadn't thought about for years. They've become a marginally talented cover band.
Quote from: Thenop on June 28, 2026, 01:07:45 PMQuote from: The Picnic Wasp on June 28, 2026, 12:07:39 PMAnika is wonderfully talented. She was never going to be as good as Neil in his own band with parts he wrote. How could she? But her style seems very stiff and rigid compared to their original sound, which was very powerful yet fluid.
As much as I like and appreciate Neil and his talent, if there is one thing he was not it was fluid.
I hear an infinite amount of fluidity in Annika's approach of the drums.
Maybe you refer to the overall fluidity and interplay between the threesome, but there's a reason I usually refer to Neil as Ol'Clunky...
The only time I heard Neil sort of swing was on T4e. Upon his return he was to his usual power drumming style. Which suited the band great mind you.
I bow to your knowledge of the art. I think my take on it is her stance (if that's an appropriate term for the sitting down approach). Watching the fills in the famous TS section she just appears (to me) jerkier whilst slamming those things. Perhaps it's just the different appearance of the physiques. Neil was a big, long-limbed guy so would have a different delivery around the kit. Maybe when I listen to a better quality audio there will seem less harshness but I detect a definite difference which I do not prefer.
Is it maybe that I haven't adjusted to the different kits? How do they compare in voicings, Nop? She spoke to Rick Beato about tunings. I suppose that must influence things. She is amazing though.
There is always a difference between drummers, espcially with the phisycial part. I for instance cannot stand watching Mike Portnoy, he feels to me like an octopus, flapping his arms around as if he has no control over them. I prefer to watch a much more fluent player.
Neil was a power drummer. A hard hitter, just look at the sheer size and weight of his Paragon designed cymbals. They weight a ton. I am no light player either, but those things frighten me. He used 14,2 mm sticks weighing each 50 grams, Annika uses 42,5 grams sticks. That is a massive difference. Does that mean she hits softer? No, just different.
Neils main influence whene developing his style was Keith Moon, that remained evident til the very end. The long, lyrical breaks, the very typical patterns that sometimes mimicked his hero. But Moon was an instinctive player, Neil was a honing the craft type.
Annika cites as main influences Jeff Porcaro (Toto), Jojo Mayer (Swiss born NYC living legend, a technical wiz - I even have his instruction DVDs..) and Carter Beauford (Dave Matthews Band, jazzrock great, and fully twohanded - as in he can play left and righthanded equally). This means she focused on feel, and less on power.
Don't get me wrong, I am not defending anything, I agree even with you to some extent, it is a different outfit these days. I fully grasp you miss the grounding, almost gravity inducing playing of the Professor. Let's also not forget the visual aspect of his gigantic kit, even though I like to old school look Annika sports, Rush had a visual attraction with that round the world kit look.
But this physical style of playing also had an effect on Neil. By the end he was barely able to play such was the strain on his body. (Not mentioning the aging smoker thing here).
The sound of the kit is surely different as well, but as itis with all instruments: it is the one that wields is that gives it its tone and character :)
One thing is for usre: the fatc that we spent hours on end discussing this already makes it worht my while. Most people just buy a ticket, and show up for a nights worth of entertainment and will be awed. I suspect we will be as well, and by the time we do we will realise we just ook the long way and enjoyed the scenery along that way a lot more than others did.
As much as they would like to call it Rush. It's not Rush.. Lee/Lifeson are nice blokes but shame on them..
Fort Worth night #2 = LA night #2 setlist
I did see a post that read:
Texas loves being flashy, so we had to have the Rush jewelry here in Fort Worth! 😏
You can find these exclusive pieces at the merch booths located at the Pavilion and South Lobby
(https://i.ibb.co/XxXCsCPD/IMG-0128.jpg)
Absolute tat, wouldn't be seen dead wearing that and not sure I'd be friends with anyone who wore one either...
Quote from: captainkurtz on June 29, 2026, 12:33:00 PMAbsolute tat, wouldn't be seen dead wearing that and not sure I'd be friends with anyone who wore one either...
I think I saw someone offering one on FB for $1100
It would fit on one finger only, and just long enough to show the boys what I think of their jewelry.
Can you guess which finger I am talking about?
Quote from: The Picnic Wasp on June 28, 2026, 02:59:04 PMQuote from: Thenop on June 28, 2026, 01:07:45 PMQuote from: The Picnic Wasp on June 28, 2026, 12:07:39 PMAnika is wonderfully talented. She was never going to be as good as Neil in his own band with parts he wrote. How could she? But her style seems very stiff and rigid compared to their original sound, which was very powerful yet fluid.
As much as I like and appreciate Neil and his talent, if there is one thing he was not it was fluid.
I hear an infinite amount of fluidity in Annika's approach of the drums.
Maybe you refer to the overall fluidity and interplay between the threesome, but there's a reason I usually refer to Neil as Ol'Clunky...
The only time I heard Neil sort of swing was on T4e. Upon his return he was to his usual power drumming style. Which suited the band great mind you.
I bow to your knowledge of the art. I think my take on it is her stance (if that's an appropriate term for the sitting down approach). Watching the fills in the famous TS section she just appears (to me) jerkier whilst slamming those things. Perhaps it's just the different appearance of the physiques. Neil was a big, long-limbed guy so would have a different delivery around the kit. Maybe when I listen to a better quality audio there will seem less harshness but I detect a definite difference which I do not prefer.
Is it maybe that I haven't adjusted to the different kits? How do they compare in voicings, Nop? She spoke to Rick Beato about tunings. I suppose that must influence things. She is amazing though.
I feel she is far more technical,fluid and nuanced than Neil, but he was an excellent composer and wordsmith on top of his gifted rock drumming skills.
Be interesting to see, if they did record together, how a female influence may add to the Rush sound/psyche. It may be too much for the MKII fanboys to take.
I wonder if this is the start of wear and tear health issues going forward. So early into a long tour is a bit soon to be playing catchup with dates. Hopefully Geddy's just picked up a bug causing the throat and chest issues and will recover quickly.
Quote from: The Picnic Wasp on July 01, 2026, 12:38:16 AMI wonder if this is the start of wear and tear health issues going forward. So early into a long tour is a bit soon to be playing catchup with dates. Hopefully Geddy's just picked up a bug causing the throat and chest issues and will recover quickly.
This is looking like a very long tour now from Geddy's perspective. Looks like they may come to regret the decision to go so big, so early.
I do worry for the European tour, although I'm a pessimist by nature. There isn't much of a gap between South America and Europe and there is quite a few SA dates as well...
Oh dear, it can't be he is sick of playing the same songs over and over. They did something about that...
Imagine the anxiety if you've booked for a show in the US, what with the flights and accommodation. This could turn out to be very disappointing for the more adventurous among us.
Quote from: captainkurtz on July 01, 2026, 04:55:31 AMI do worry for the European tour, although I'm a pessimist by nature. There isn't much of a gap between South America and Europe and there is quite a few SA dates as well...
I don't think you're being all that pessimistic. I've had a feeling since I bought my ticket that I might eventually receive a refund. I think it may hit my account before Christmas. I hope not.
I wonder what the financial implications are for the band if this doesn't work out. I suppose they will be well insured as part of their package with the promoters.
Anyway, get well soon Geddy and keep using the Voltarol Alex.
Push Lauren out front and Geddy can run the keys and bass
What struck me about Alex's apology video just now is how tired he looked. I hope they haven't bitten off too much with this.
Deep Purple and many others continue to tour. Maybe cut the setlist down a bit.
Quote from: Nick on July 01, 2026, 02:38:43 PMDeep Purple and many others continue to tour. Maybe cut the setlist down a bit.
That might happen. If so, given the ticket prices, there could be punters at the later shows (from here on in :-\ ) that would have the right to feel short-changed. What was intended as a 'celebration' could end up leaving a bad taste in the mouth for a lot of fans.
It will be interesting to see how it turns out.
Quote from: The Picnic Wasp on July 01, 2026, 02:11:56 PMWhat struck me about Alex's apology video just now is how tired he looked. I hope they haven't bitten off too much with this.
He just looked disappointed.
Quote from: captainkurtz on July 01, 2026, 03:53:47 PMQuote from: The Picnic Wasp on July 01, 2026, 02:11:56 PMWhat struck me about Alex's apology video just now is how tired he looked. I hope they haven't bitten off too much with this.
He just looked disappointed.
Time will tell I suppose, if it isn't already.
Maybe laryngitis might help his singing voice?
Puns over I hope. Admin delete them on a football site I visit.
I've enjoyed watching live stuff from tribute band AF2K recently. Made me think that Zack James would have been a great addition to the Rush back line for this tour. He could have done some heavy lifting on some of the very high register stuff. Even just the odd line in a song to stop Geddy damaging those ageing cords. Great singer. His performance on Marathon is stunning.
Quote from: The Picnic Wasp on July 09, 2026, 10:20:23 PMPuns over I hope. Admin delete them on a football site I visit.
People are welcome to submit short pun posts, but at some point I will tidy them up when everyone's had their fun.
is geddy over his ailments do we know.. ?
He is, back in business as of the 11th I believe
I could handle a five piece Rush with Zack handling most of the vocals. Not at £325 though.
(https://i.ibb.co/r2SCycKh/Screenshot-2026-07-10-at-13-09-47-Instagram.png)
Aaannd, they're back.
Setlist 3, as expected (the full MP album) was played.
Quote from: Thenop on July 12, 2026, 09:35:32 AMAaannd, they're back.
Setlist 3, as expected (the full MP album) was played.
This is why I'll hopefully manage to pick up a cheaper ticket for the first Glasgow night. I don't want my only concert to be that setlist.
I'd actually prefer them not to attempt my favourite tunes when I go.
Quote from: Slim on July 12, 2026, 12:10:32 PMI'd actually prefer them not to attempt my favourite tunes when I go.
😂
Quote from: Thenop on July 10, 2026, 12:10:45 PM(https://i.ibb.co/r2SCycKh/Screenshot-2026-07-10-at-13-09-47-Instagram.png)
Rumours that the dog has been drafted in for backing vocals
Reincarnated Seamus
They could definitely use our Alfie. Definitely shades of Hemispheres if there's a harmonica within earshot.
No new songs played but they did mix up setlist a bit. They did 2112 and MP entirely (not in order), so they are playing around with it.
Rush The Sphere
Seems apt , quite fancy the experience.
https://www.rushisaband.com/blog/2026/07/17/6518/Rush-in-talks-for-a-Las-Vegas-Sphere-residency
It seems that no matter how much money you have, you always feel like you need a bit more.
Quote from: Slim on July 17, 2026, 06:38:16 PMIt seems that no matter how much money you have, you always feel like you need a bit more.
There's song there as well
Quote from: Slim on July 17, 2026, 06:38:16 PMIt seems that no matter how much money you have, you always feel like you need a bit more.
Getting through this tour and retaining good health should really be the aim. That's for folk with average sized egos though. I think a stint like this might spell the end of my love affair with Rush. Leave the Sphere to acts like Kiss and the Stones.
Anyway, how would Geddy deal with Vegas throat? Bono could probably afford the rent for a humidified palace.
They would only half fill it anyway
Quote from: Slim on July 17, 2026, 06:38:16 PMIt seems that no matter how much money you have, you always feel like you need a bit more.
Looks like they're firing on both hemi spheres..
Rhyme and reason ensures a payday.
Quote from: Nick on July 17, 2026, 05:54:25 PMRush The Sphere
Seems apt , quite fancy the experience.
https://www.rushisaband.com/blog/2026/07/17/6518/Rush-in-talks-for-a-Las-Vegas-Sphere-residency
That would represent a (new) nadir for me
Quote from: David L on July 18, 2026, 09:06:49 AMQuote from: Nick on July 17, 2026, 05:54:25 PMRush The Sphere
Seems apt , quite fancy the experience.
https://www.rushisaband.com/blog/2026/07/17/6518/Rush-in-talks-for-a-Las-Vegas-Sphere-residency
That would represent a (new) nadir for me
There's a time when artists of a certain stature, whom up to a point have retained a certain human quality, pass into a different untouchable realm.
Folk like Jagger etc.
This would be that moment for Rush and the mental divide would ruin it for me.
QPrime will be pushing for it...they're absolutely coining it in with the Metallica residency there...
Read about a woman at a Chicago show buying two cans of Rush beer to take home to her husband as a souvenir. $17 per can and the venue insisted these were then opened and poured into a cup. Also, she was not allowed to keep the empties which were thrown in the bin. A refund was refused as her credit card was already charged.
Pretty disgusting. I wish bands would show a bit of integrity when negotiating with promoters and venues but they all seem to be cash grabbers nowadays.
LA was $20 a can apparently.
I think a carry out in the Hydro car park beckons.
If its a souvenir buy it on your way out. Seems unlikely they will apply the same policy then.
Quote from: Thenop on July 24, 2026, 07:24:50 PMIf it's thinka souvenir buy it on your way out. Seems unlikely they will apply the same policy then.
I think she tried to but the only option offered was buy it online, with the carriage costing more than the can.
The merch is absolute tat. They use to have really cool T-shirts in the 70's and 80's..I'll be walking straight past the merchandise stalls come next March...
Quote from: The Picnic Wasp on July 24, 2026, 06:57:08 PMRead about a woman at a Chicago show buying two cans of Rush beer to take home to her husband as a souvenir. $17 per can and the venue insisted these were then opened and poured into a cup. Also, she was not allowed to keep the empties which were thrown in the bin. A refund was refused as her credit card was already charged.
Pretty disgusting. I wish bands would show a bit of integrity when negotiating with promoters and venues but they all seem to be cash grabbers nowadays.
LA was $20 a can apparently.
I think a carry out in the Hydro car park beckons.
That's f***king terrible. That must've been the sourest tasting beer she ever tasted. What a memory of a Rush show to be left with. Perhaps the band are unaware but someone needs to be ashamed of themselves 😡
The band is aware of the merch, what it is and what the cost (and their take) is.
What they are not aware of, and cannot help, is venue regulation and how that has gotten out of hand.
It's ultimately the band's responsibility that this has happened to their fans, let's not pretend otherwise.
Quote from: Slim on July 25, 2026, 08:15:20 AMIt's ultimately the band's responsibility that this has happened to their fans, let's not pretend otherwise.
If they become aware of this, they should arrange some form of redress that would reverse this fan's terrible experience. The full VIP meet and greet experience, gratis of course.
A two second chat and a fist-bump from Geddy would sort it, I'm sure ;D
Quote from: David L on July 25, 2026, 08:47:16 AMQuote from: Slim on July 25, 2026, 08:15:20 AMIt's ultimately the band's responsibility that this has happened to their fans, let's not pretend otherwise.
If they become aware of this, they should arrange some form of redress that would reverse this fan's terrible experience. The full VIP meet and greet experience, gratis of course.
A two second chat and a fist-bump from Geddy would sort it, I'm sure ;D
My meet & greet, which I won, spoiled Rush for me for quite a while. It let the genie out of the bottle and took a bit of the magic away. I'm aware that's a conflicting metaphor. 😁
They bacame real rather than people from a fantasy land. Geddy appeared pocket sized and Alex was in some contrived mode trying to convince us he was indeed the court jester.
All a bit (completely) corporate and false. Don't do it folks.
Don't meet your heroes I think is the maxim. I've met Todd Rundgren twice briefly seemed like a nice bloke..
Quote from: The Picnic Wasp on July 25, 2026, 04:18:21 PMMy meet & greet, which I won, spoiled Rush for me for quite a while. It let the genie out of the bottle and took a bit of the magic away. I'm aware that's a conflicting metaphor. 😁
I remember when Geddy emerged from the stage door at Newcastle City Hall, my first thought was - he's very short.
I met Geddy at his Book of Bass signing thing. I gushed and he didn't look at me at all and seemed a bit disinterested. There must have been 500+ people there though, so fair enough.
I've been put off by his pro Israel posts and complete silence about their scum governments actions over the last few years.
A review from Guitar World of the first MSG show:
https://www.guitarworld.com/artists/concerts-gigs-tours/rush-madison-square-garden-night-one-review
"Alex Lifeson went off on loose-limbed benders, taking madcap detours and stretching out phrases just to see where they'd land"
While I haven't actually seen this performance, I strongly suspect that's a positive spin to say the least.
Quote from: Slim on July 29, 2026, 11:19:42 PM"Alex Lifeson went off on loose-limbed benders, taking madcap detours and stretching out phrases just to see where they'd land"
While I haven't actually seen this performance, I strongly suspect that's a positive spin to say the least.
It could well be written by someone who's never seen or heard Rush live before.
"Alex Lifeson went off on loose-limbed benders, taking madcap detours and stretching out phrases just to see where they'd land"
.. which had been rehearsed to death over a 6 month period
Quote from: David L on July 29, 2026, 11:22:35 PMQuote from: Slim on July 29, 2026, 11:19:42 PM"Alex Lifeson went off on loose-limbed benders, taking madcap detours and stretching out phrases just to see where they'd land"
While I haven't actually seen this performance, I strongly suspect that's a positive spin to say the least.
It could well be written by someone who's never seen or heard Rush live before.
.....and/or may not be at all familiar with their material.
Quote from: Slim on July 29, 2026, 11:19:42 PM"Alex Lifeson went off on loose-limbed benders, taking madcap detours and stretching out phrases just to see where they'd land"
While I haven't actually seen this performance, I strongly suspect that's a positive spin to say the least.
That quote sounds like my early twenties.