- Rush News Archive -
April through May 2007
April through May 2007
Snakes & Arrows MVI Edition Update
The MVI (Music-DVD) version of Snakes & Arrows has apparently been delayed once again. Online retailer Amazon.Com is reporting that the MVI edition will be released on June 19th while the Rush Backstage Club reports a release date of June 26th. Of interest is the fact that the Backstage Club has sold out of their online allotment of this limited-edition product. You can still order a copy via Amazon.Com.
About the MVI:Rush has recorded Snakes & Arrows on a new format called "MVI" (Music Video Interactive disc). Another name for this is the "DVD-Album". With a higher storage capacity than a standard CD, the MVI is loaded with exciting new features. Superior sound quality plus a wide range of video features and interactive digital content combine to bring you closer to the artists and their music. It plays in all standard DVD players, computers and game consoles with DVD drives. The MVI includes the full album in 96kHz/24 bit hi-resolution stereo audio and a 5.1 surround mix, plus bonus video and digital content. Although the MVI disc will not play in your CD player, the audio tracks are pre-encoded for easy transfer to your computer, portable music player, or recordable CD. Digital music files are compatible with all MP3 devices. Please note that this MVI will not play in CD players.The production run is limited to just 25,000 copies.
The Rush "SNAKES & ARROWS" MVI comes in a deluxe box, and includes these 13 new songs in hi-resolution audio, the entire album in 5.1 surround sound, a video documentary on the making of the album, and more (see below).
May 24th, 2007
Snakes & Arrows Charting Update - Week 3
As it enters its third week of release, Snakes & Arrows has dropped to position #35 on the Billboard Top 200 Albums list. The 15 point drop from week 2 is about on par with the 17 point drop after entering the charts at the #3 spot. Vapor Trails, as a comparison, was at position #43 in its third week. Snakes & Arrows also dropped from position #4 to #9 on the Top Rock Albums chart.
May 24th, 2007
Geddy Lee Appears on Bob & Doug MacKenzie 24 Anniversary Special
Last Sunday, CBC (The Canadian Broadcasting Corporation) aired the Bob & Doug McKenzie 24th Anniversary Special where Geddy Lee made a special appearance.
The video segment with Geddy Lee, who presents Bob & Doug with a Donut Cake, can now be viewed at YouTube. Take off, eh!
May 21st, 2007
Rush News Bullets
* Neil Peart, who graced the cover of the June 2007 issue of Drum! Magazine, is also featured in a special, collector's edition from Modern Drummer called THE DRUM GODS: 25 Legendary Talents Who Changed Drumming. This 152 page magazine includes "biographical info, classic photos, and style & analysis sections, tips, quotes, and even lessons from the artists themselves are included."
* Far Cry continues to chart extremely well as it enters its third month of release. It's currently charting at position #2 on Radio & Records Rock/Active Rock list while its holding on to position #3 on the Mainstream Rock List from Mediabase. It's also listed on MediaGuide's Mainstream Rock List where it's sitting at position #5.
* And speaking of Far Cry, a higher-quality version of the full-length video is now available via this LINK.
May 17th, 2007
Illustrated Companion to Roadshow: Landscape with Drums
Rounder Books will be publishing an illustrative companion to Neil Peart's Roadshow: Landscape with Drums on September 25th. The editorial blurb on the book reads:A stunning companion to Roadshow: Landscape with Drums, The Illustrated Companion combines eloquent text with a range of full color photographs depicting the byways, bystanders, backstage hands, and other features of Neil Peart's ever-changing landscape as he journeys by motorcycle between dates on Rush's historic 30th Anniversary World Tour. Including concert photos taken by official Rush photographer Andrew MacNaughtan The Roadshow Illustrated Companion vividly chronicles Peart's ultimate travel adventure delivering a sublimely executed treatise on the art of travel.The book is available for pre-order from Amazon.com
May 16th, 2007
New Rush Tribute Album Now Available
In the same vein as Subdivisions and Working Man comes the latest Rush Tribute Album from a "band" calling themselves Run For Cover. What's of interest with this group is that key members are part of three distinct Rush Tribute Bands (Archives, Hemispheres and Limelight). Samples of each track are available at Amazon.Com which reveal the songs to be fairly close to their original counterparts. Fear not, this isn't another Red Star tribute.
As has been the case with nearly every Rush Tribute Album, the selected songs are all from the first 10 years of Rush's career.
The tracklist: Distant Early Warning, Tom Sawyer, New World Man, Freewill, Subdivisions, Limelight, Jacob's Ladder, Red Barchetta, Xanadu, The Trees, Natural Science
May 16th, 2007
Snakes & Arrows Charting News
Week #2 reflected a drop in sales of Snakes & Arrows. On the Canadian Charts, the album dropped to position #7 after its debut on the list at position #3. Preliminary results indicate that Snakes & Arrows will drop to position #20 on the Billboard Top 200 Chart after debuting on the list at position #3.
In contrast, Vapor Trails debuted at #6 in its first week, followed by drops to positions #29, #43, #66 and #77 over its first five weeks. So, relatively speaking, Snakes & Arrows is doing marginally better than Vapor Trails.
May 14th, 2007
Canada.Com Article Hints at Encore Song
A new article from Canada.Com discusses the time-honored ritual of concert encores, and how few are rarely spontaneous these days. Alex Lifeson was quoted in the article, where he hinted that an "old gem" was selected for the encore on Rush's upcoming Snakes & Arrows tour.But oftentimes encores are planned well in advance much like the set list, particularly among bands higher up the fame echelon, says veteran Rush guitarist Alex Lifeson.Let the guessing games begin! You can read the entire article HERE.
"Certainly, on our level, it's to be expected," Lifeson says of Rush encores, noting there's little variation among them, despite the group's vast catalogue of songs.
"It's the same thing every night. You know, we anticipate the encore, so it's just really it's just an opportunity for us to come out and play a few more songs."
The 53-year-old performer says that an old gem has been chosen for the encore on Rush's upcoming world tour, but he wouldn't say which one.
Encores certainly meant something different when the stadium rockers first started out, says Lifeson.
"When we were a young band playing clubs and opening acts and we would get an encore it was really special," Lifeson recalls. "You were thrilled to get one and hoped that the headliner would allow you to do it."
May 14th, 2007
Geddy Lee Graces the Cover of Bass Guitar Magazine
The July 2007 issue of Bass Guitar Magazine has a feature article on Geddy Lee, who also appears on the cover. The sub-heading on the cover reads: Inside the mind of Geddy Lee: Rush finds the perfect mix of chops & songcraft on Snakes & Arrows.
Thanks to RushIsABand.Com, we now have scans of the six-page article along with photographs of Geddy taken for the interview.
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It should also be noted that Alex Lifeson and Neil Peart also had some magazine cover exposure. Alex appeared on the June 2007 Cover of Guitar One (Guitar World) Magazine while Neil appeared in the June 2007 issue of Drum! Magazine.
May 9th, 2007
Rush on Rockline Tonight
Rush, presumably just Geddy and Alex, will be appearing on Rockline tonight. The show is scheduled to air from 8:30PM to 10PM Pacific time (11:30PM to 1AM EST). Listeners have the ability to call in with questions. To do so, call 1-800-344-ROCK during the show. Accorinding to Rushisaband.Com, this marks Rush's 19th appearance on Rockline which is more than any other act save for Ozzy who also has 19 appearances.
A re-broadcast of the show will air on May 14th. For more information, click HERE.
May 9th, 2007
Snakes & Arrows Hits #3 on Billboard 200
We now have confirmation from a Billboard Article that Snakes & Arrows has entered the Top 200 Album Charts at #3. First week U.S. sales of Snakes & Arrows are in the 93,000 range. In contrast, Vapor Trails, which debuted at the #6 spot on the Billboard 200 netted sales of 111,199 in its first full week, followed by a drop of over 60% in its second week.Rush returns with its first studio album in five years, as "Snakes & Arrows" bows at No. 3 with 93,000 units. Its last studio set, 2002's "Vapor Trails," began at No. 6 with 108,000. All told, the new set is the act's 27th album to reach The Billboard 200. Its highest-charting effort remains 1993's "Counterparts," which debuted and peaked at No. 2In other charting news, Brave Worlds is reporting that Snakes & Arrows has reached Gold Status in Canada (sales of 50,000 units) and has entered the SoundScan Top 200 List at #3.
May 9th, 2007
Full-Length Far Cry Video Now Online
The full-length version of the official Far Cry Video is now online at YouTube. You can view it at this LINK.
The video's dark imagery picks up on the theme of the song nicely and the vintage Rush clips embedded in segments of the video are a special treat.
May 8th, 2007
Making of Snakes & Arrows Preview Clips
As reported earlier, the DVD Album version of Snakes & Arrows, also known as the MVI version, which is being released on June 5th, will contain an exclusive "Making of" video; a first for Rush. There are now two preview clips of the video online at YouTube.
The first CLIP shows Geddy laying down some vocal tracks for Far Cry and then switches to show all 3 members of Rush jamming to "The Main Monkey Business". The second CLIP focuses on Alex's guitar work for Far Cry.
Thanks to GeddyWannaBe for passing me the links.
May 7th, 2007
Snakes & Arrows Enters the U.K. Charts
As we await the charting of Snakes & Arrows on the Billboard 200 (preliminary estimates suggest it'll come in at position #3), the UK Top 40 Albums list is out and Snakes & Arrows has entered the charts at position #13. Considering that Vapor Trails failed to reach the top 40 on the U.K. charts, this is a fairly impressive showing.
May 7th, 2007
Edmonton Sun Articles on Rush and Snakes & Arrows
Over the past couple of days, the Edmonton Sun, a Canadian newspaper, published two articles on Rush related to the new album and up-coming tour. The first article, Spirit of Rush Reborn, discusses, among other things, the success of Far Cry, Rush's most successful single in a decade (which is still tracking at #3) as well as the process of creating Snakes & Arrows.
In the second article, Practice Makes Perfect, the topic focuses on the preparations for the upcoming tour. On a humorous note, Geddy Lee was asked if he would be bringing the dryers and/or Vending Machines back for this tour:"That's a hard decision," he said. "Listen, if a guitar player can have a bank of amps that he doesn't really need, I can have a bank of things that I don't really need. It's a comment. People ask and you always have fun with it, 'Well, you know, we want that warm, dry sound.' I don't think I'm bringing dryers on this trip. I have a few ideas I'm working on right now."Both articles were written by Jane Stevenson.
May 5th, 2007
New World Premiere Interview with Neil Peart
Though Snakes & Arrows has already been released, a new "World Premiere" Interview has surfaced from Iceberg Radio.Com. Unlike most of the other existing interviews which are conducted with Geddy and Alex, Neil Peart takes the reigns for this interview.
In the interview, Neil discusses, among other things, the lyrical writing process for Snakes & Arrows and indicates his affection for the track "Armor and Sword".Rush are back with their first album of new material in five years, Snakes & Arrows. Go behind the scenes in an exclusive World Album Premiere that includes a rare interview with drummer Neil Peart.Click HERE to listen to the interview.
May 4th, 2007
Far Cry Teaser Video Now Online
Rush.Com, which has had a number of nice enhancements created over the last couple of days, just posted a link to YouTube which reveals a short, sneak-peak look into the Music Video for Far Cry. The full-version of the video will be available on May 8th.
Far Cry marks the first music video by Rush this century as the last vide came from the Test for Echo album.
Check out the video at YouTube.
May 4th, 2007
Geddy & Alex Sit Down with Kim Mitchell of Q107
Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson had a sit-down interview with Q107's Kim Mitchell on Wednesday where around 100 lucky fans were invited to witness the get-together. The audio interview is now available online.
Thanks to RushIsABand.Com for sharing the news.
May 4th, 2007
Snakes & Arrows Showing Strong First Week Sales
Sales of Snakes & Arrows have been fairly strong as the album continues to float near the top of Amazon's Top Selling Music List (peaking at #2) and iTunes Top 10 Album Charts (Peaking at #5 US / #3 Canada). Estimated sales of over 100,000 in week one should allow Snakes & Arrows to chart on the Billboard Top 200 at position #3. In contrast, Vapor Trails charted and peaked at #6 but sold closer to 175,000 units in week one. Since the release of the album, Far Cry has jumped in the Mainstream Rock Charts and has reached the #2 spot right behind Ozzy's "I Don't Wanna Stop".
May 2nd, 2007
Q107 World Premiere Radio Event Now Online
Videos, the complete transcription and some additional extras from the Q107 World Premiere of Snakes & Arrows Radio Special are now online at the Q107 website. Segments that didn't air during the special are included within the 3 included videos.
Thanks to reader GeddyWannaBe for passing me the link.
May 1st, 2007
SNAKES & ARROWS ARRIVES!
After a five year wait, Snakes & Arrows, the 19th studio album (18th if you only count original material) is now available. The 13-track CD, which sports 3 instrumentals and the smash-hit "Far Cry", has already been met with critical acclaim.
For more information on the album including lyrics and liner notes, click on Cygnus-X1.Net's official Snakes & Arrows page. For a view of the artwork that accompanies the new album, click on this page.
Congratulations to Rush and all involved in the production of this fantastic album!
April 29th, 2007
Snakes & Arrows Reviews
Reviews of Snakes & Arrows are beginning to hit the net and for the most part, the album is being well received. Below are links to four reviews from major sources.AllMusic.Com ReviewI'll have links to more major reviews of Snakes & Arrows as they're published. I'll also be publishing my own extensive review of the album within the next week or two.
Arrows Hits the Mark
Billboard Review
HardRock Haven Review
April 29th, 2007
Snakes & Arrows World Premiere Events Now Online
Over the last week, there were several World Premiere Events celebrating the release of Snakes & Arrows. Three of those events are now online. Click any of the links below to listen.Sirius Classic Rewind Special
Q107 Snakes & Arrows World Premier Radio Special
FMQB Inside Snakes & Arrows Special
April 27th, 2007
Cooper and Football and Vinyl -- Oh My!
A few more news bullets for you as we enter into the final weekend before the release of Snakes & Arrows.Geddy & Alex to Appear with Alice Cooper
Among the numerous interview stops that Rush has been making during the promotion of Snakes & Arrows, I'm sure few will compare to their appearance on Nights With Alice Cooper which will air May 3rd.
Alice Cooper is your professor of rock 'n' roll knowledge, and he WILL hit you on your knuckles with a ruler! But only if you ask nicely. Alice has trivia on the Doors, very rare rock for a Closet Classic, then- drum roll please!- it's Coop's interview with RUSH. Yes, Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson drop by to chat, so that's one you won't want to miss! Plus, it's the start of Coop's special autographed Vermont Teddy Bear contest at nightswithalicecooper.com! Don't miss Nights with Alice Cooper this evening for action-packed radio lunacy!"
More information is available at www.nightswithalicecooper.com.Tom Sawyer Remix to Appear in All-Pro Football 2K8
The soundtrack to the new XBox 360 game All-Pro Football 2K8 will include a remixed version of Tom Sawyer.
"So Electronic Arts owns the license to the NFL, as well as the names and likenesses of all their players... where does that leave competing football game companies?...Making games like All-Pro Football 2K8 that feature classic players from the real game and...the soundtrack features re-mixes of older tunes, including Tom Sawyer by Rush. We threw in that factoid because our boss loves the Rush. Go figure, eh?" - G4TV.com
The remixed version of Tom Sawyer can be heard at the game's official website. You can pre-order the game from Amazon by clicking HERE. Expected release date is June 30th.Snakes & Arrows Vinyl Edition Now Available for Pre-OrderThanks to Power Windows and RushIsABand.Com for the news.
Those interested in obtaining Snakes & Arrows on vinyl can now place your pre-order at MusicDirect.Com. The Vinyl edition of Rush's latest studio album is due out on June 19th.
April 27th, 2007
Rush Shows Humour on New Album
A recent Jam! Music interview with Geddy Lee discussed the instrumental song "Malignant Narcissim" from Snakes & Arrows and how the band came up with the title.[Rush] maintain[ed] their sense of humour, having lifted the title of one of their new instrumentals - Malignant Narcissim - from a line about how terrorists think in the outrageous 2004 movie comedy, Team America: World Police.You can check out the complete interview by clicking this LINK.
The irreverant film sprang from the same minds, Matt Stone and Trey Parker, who brought the world South Park.
'We're all big Matt Stone fans, and South Park fans, so we we were all fans of that movie,' Rush singer-bassist Geddy Lee said yesterday in Toronto. 'And (Rush drummer-lyricist) Neil (Peart) is friends with Matt Stone. And Matt and Trey Parker were both Rush fans at some point. So they keep in contact. And (Neil) said, 'Look, we want to do this song called Malignant Narcissim, and (Matt) was thrilled. He said, 'Great!''
April 26th, 2007
Rush.Com Announces World Premiere of Snakes & Arrows
In addition to the world premiere of Snakes & Arrows at Q107.com tonight (Thursday, April 26th), Rush.Com has announced a schedule of radio stations, dates and times that will also be premiering Snakes & Arrows. Click HERE for a list of US stations/dates. Click HERE for a list of Canadian stations and dates.
April 25th, 2007
Q107 To Air Rush Interview and Snakes & Arrows Album
Last week, I reported that Jeff Woods of Toronto's Rock Station Q107 recently interviewed Geddy, Alex and Neil for an upcoming radio special. I've now learned that the interview will air tomorrow night, Thursday April 26th at 10:00 ET. In addition, according to sources who heard the on-air annoucement, Q107 will be playing the entire Snakes & Arrows album throughout the 90 minute interview. Streaming is available at the Q107 Website.
April 25th, 2007
Snakes & Arrows Lyrics and Artwork Sneak Peak
I've updated the Snakes & Arrows Album Page with complete, though somewhat unconfirmed lyrics. Also, check out THIS post from the Counterpart Message forum for a sneak peak into most of the artwork and packaging of Snakes & Arrows. Of course, the full artwork, liner notes and more will be reflected on Cygnus-X1.Net shortly after May 1st.
April 24th, 2007
FMQB Rush Radio Special Update
Back in March I reported that the Snakes & Arrows World Premiere Radio Event would be taken place right around this time. There's new information regarding the event.Inside Rush: Snakes & ArrowsMany thanks to reader Firefighter "Sal" for the head's up on this news.
FMQB Productions & Atlantic Records present you with an exclusive look at Rush's new album, Snakes & Arrows, in stores on Tuesday, May 1. During this one hour special, Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson sit down with host Lou Brutus to discuss working with producer Nick Raskulinecz (Foo Fighters, Stone Sour, Shadows Fall), as the band spent five weeks recording in a remote woodland studio on a mountaintop in upstate New York. Inside Rush: Snakes & Arrows will take your listeners behind the scenes of those sessions, give insight to the band's new release and possibly offer up some details of what fans can expect on the upcoming world tour.
The show is available to run from April 27 - May 1 and is broken down into 4 segments, running approximately 51 minutes in length (see below). This program is not market exclusive and contains no national spots.
Details
Opening segment - Length: 18:49
In Cue: 'Welcome to Inside Rush: Snakes & Arrows'
Songs: 'Far Cry' 'Spindrift'
Out Cue: 'on the Rush Radio Network in just a moment.'
Segment #2 - Length: 14:30
In Cue: 'Welcome back to Inside Rush'
Songs: 'The Larger Bowl? ?Bravest Face'
Out Cue: 'and Alex Lifeson right after this.'
Segment #3 - Length: 7:50
In Cue: 'Welcome back to Inside Rush'
Songs: 'Workin? Them Angels'
Out Cue: 'and Geddy Lee in just a moment.'
Closing segment - Length: 11:00
In Cue: 'Welcome back to Inside Rush'
Songs: 'Armor & Sword'
Out Cue: 'on the Rush Radio Network.'
April 24th, 2007
Rush News Bullets
As May 1st approaches, news related to Rush continues to appear at a frenzied pace. Here are some notable news points regarding the new album, the tour and more.Second Toronto Show Added
After the September 19th Toronto Show sold out in a matter of hours, Rush has apparently added on a second show according to a listing at TicketMaster. Rush.Com has also just confirmed the new date. Pre-sale for the show, which will also take place at the Air Canada Centre will begin on Wednesday, April 25th at 10:00 with the normal sale of tickets beginning Friday, April 27th at 10:00am.Rush to be Featured on Rockline
Rush will appear on the nationally syndicated radio show Rockline on May 9th. It's not clear if all three members of the band or just Geddy and Alex will appear. The show, which is aired lived, begins at 11:30 ET (8:30 PT), will take calls from listeners. Check out the Rockline website to locate a station in your area which is broadcasting the program.Porcupine Tree "Fear Of A Blank Planet" Released
The new Porcupine Tree album, Fear Of A Blanket, which includes a guest performance by Alex Lifeson is now available. Steven Wilson of Porcupine Tree discusses the album and his experience of working with Alex Lifeson in THIS interview from ProgArchives. Click HERE to purchase the album from Amazon.ComSnakes & Arrows to be released on Vinyl
According to a listing of Snakes & Arrows at AllMusic.Com, S&A will be released on Vinyl through Rhino Records. No other online retailer is reflecting a Vinyl version of Snakes & Arrows but considering that all previous Rush studio albums received a Vinyl treatment, it seems logical that S&A would follow suit.
April 23rd, 2007
Geddy Lee Interview in Canada's National Post
A lengthy article/interview, Rush, unhurried, with Geddy Lee appeared in Canada's National Post today. In it, Geddy discusses the upcoming tour, the approach Rush took to recording Snakes & Arrows and how his guest appearance on Bob & Doug McKenzie's The Great White North was probably his biggest hit in the U.S. Here's an excerpt from the article:Rush's new album, Snakes & Arrows, may take on dark lyrical themes, but its recording, explains Lee, was particularly enjoyable. The trio's last studio album proper, 2002's Vapor Trails, was "14 months of a heart-wrenching experience," since they were reconvening for the first time after drummer and lyricist Neil Peart's family tragedies in the late '90s, as chronicled in Peart's book, Ghost Rider. This time out, Lee, Peart and guitarist Alex Lifeson were still charged up from recording 2004's Feedback EP. The set of covers of 1960s songs by the likes of Buffalo Springfield and The Yardbirds found them simplifying their usual ultra-complex approach.You can read the complete article by clicking this link.
"Rather than over-think the thing in production, [we need to] go in and just play live, and capture the spirit of the thing," admits Lee, who regularly tops rock bassist polls. "When we went to record [Snakes & Arrows], we took that with us and in some ways, it reset us."
April 22nd, 2007
Snakes & Arrows Preview Clips from Wal*Mart.Com
Of all the online retailers available, it turns out that Wal*Mart.Com is the first to provide 30-second sample clips for all of the tracks on Snakes & Arrows. You can access the clips via this LINK.
April 22nd, 2007
Neil Peart's Snakes & Arrows Drum Kit Revealed!
Now this is the type of "leak" I can stand behind. With great thanks to RushIsABand.Com reader Michael Yarberry who, while visiting DW Drums this past weekend, actually saw Neil's Snakes & Arrows drumkit. DW Drums permitted him to take a few snapshots for all Rush fans to enjoy.
Click on any of the thumbnail images to see the full-size, high-resolution shot. Michael, who is also a drumer, included some caption notes on each image. Enjoy!
April 21st, 2007
Jeff Woods Q107 Interview Information
Last week, Jeff Woods of Toronto's Rock Station Q107 conducted an interview with all 3 members of Rush (Geddy and Alex in one session, Neil in a separate session). In his blog, Jeff asked fans to submit questions that they would like to ask the band. You may notice a question I submitted which, unfortunately, went unanswered. In any case, a short teaser clip of the entire interview is now online. It's great to hear the enthusiam about this album coming from all three members of the band, particularly Neil who sees himself as a "fan" who wants to "love" each song.
The full interview, which will coincide with the world premiere of Snakes & Arrows, should be interesting. Stay tuned for news as to when the complete interview will be available.
April 20th, 2007
Snakes & Arrows Full Album Download
By now, some of you may be aware that an illegal copy of Snakes & Arrows (the entire album) has been leaked and many have downloaded it. I usually don't use this Rush News section as a forum for my feelings, but in this case I must. Back in 2002, prior to the official release of Vapor Trails, the entire album was leaked on the net. Uncounted thousands of people downloaded the album in place of purchasing it. This damaged the sales of Vapor Trails and, to this day, has prevented it from reaching Gold status; the only such Rush studio album to fail to achieve this status (thus far).
The band members have always scorned illegal downloading of any music, so I'm sure the news of the album leaking out will not sit well with them. It's for this reason that I did not mention the leak of Malignant Narcissism earlier in the week. Folks, Rush have given us decades of musical enjoyment and we (the fans) have been often cited as some of the most devoted and loyal fans of any band. Let us all live up to that merit by avoiding any temptation of downloading the album.
We're all excited about hearing new Rush. That goes without saying. But we now need to play by the rules, wait for the official release on May 1st and help drive Snakes & Arrows to open in the top 10 and reach Gold status; an affirmation that after 30 years, the music and message of Rush are still relevant. I'm off my soap-box now, but I hope you understand and appreciate the seriousness of this message.
Thanks.
April 20th, 2007
Sirius Satellite Radio Rush Special
Sirius Satellite Radio will be airing an interview with all 3 members of Rush on Thursday, April 26th at 10pm ET. The interview will be aired on Channel 15 (Classic Rewind)All three members of Rush stop by the SIRIUS Studios for an exclusive interview. Join Geddy Lee, Neil Peart and Alex Lifeson as they talk about all sorts of things including their new CD Snakes & Arrows, their upcoming tour, what they like to do when they're not on the road and much more.The interview will be rebroadcast on Saturday, April 28th @ 12:00pm ET, Sunday, April 29th @ 11:00pm ET and Tuesday, May 1st @ 3:00pm ET. Click HERE for more information.
April 19th, 2007
Exit...Stage Left Makes "Top Live Albums" List
Back in February, IGN.Com posted a list of the Top 25 Progressive Rock Albums wherein 2112 placed at #10. They've now posted a list of the Top 25 Live Albums of all time where Exit...Stage Left came in at #18 - a rather low ranking considering some of the others that placed higher. Here's what IGN had to say about ESL:Canada's leading power trio export has released no less than four live albums throughout their career. That said, this early '80s effort is the best of the bunch, capturing Geddy Lee, Alex Lifeson, and Neal Pert at the height of their prog rock intensity. All the essentials are here from "Spirit of Radio" on down to "Tom Sawyer," "Red Barchetta," and a heart warming rendition of "Closer to the Heart." Toss in such cult classics as "The Trees" and searing instrumentals like "YYZ" and you're set!A nice summary though the misspelling of Neil's first and last name are inexcusable. To view the complete list, click HERE.
April 19th, 2007
Neil's Picks for Quality Reading, Issue #8
Neil Peart, who periodically reviews books in the "Bubba's Book Club" section of his website, has a new update where he discusses What is the What by Dave Eggers."As a potential reader, you have to think, "Do I really want to suffer through a story about a child who was exiled from the Sudan by warring gangs of heavily-armed thugs destroying his village and murdering his neighbors, exiling him to Kenyan refugee camps for ten years, until finally he makes his way to the United States-where he is beaten and robbed by American thieves? The short answer is, yes, I do. What is the What is not "about" the misadventures of a Sudanese refugee. It is about all of us. What is the What is not "about" the misadventures of a Sudanese refugee. It is about all of us...As literature, I think What is the What is a modern masterpiece, by a gifted artist of early promise who has now matured enough as a writer and as a human being to dare to co-opt another person's life-a real person's life, it should be stressed-and transform it into a tale of truth and beauty. To a modern citizen of the world, there is no doubt that Valentino's story is a tale that deserves to be told, but that doesn't make it art. It is the talent, vision, courage, and ambition of Dave Eggers that makes this story timeless and transcendent-true and beautiful."
April 18th, 2007
Alex Lifeson Reacts to Judge's Decision
As reported earlier, a judge recently ruled that the Collier deputies involved in the Alex Lifeson/Ritz Carlton New Year's Eve incident acted "reasonably". TheRockRadio.Com had an exclusive interview with Alex Lifeson discussing his reactions to the ruling."All we can do is go to appeal. I know what happened to me -- I know what happened in that stairwell, I know the brutality of these police officers, and I know the way the hotel behaved. And, you know, someone else's opinion is someone else's opinion, but I was there, and I know what it was like."To read the complete article, click HERE.
April 17th, 2007
Matt Scannell Discusses Neil Peart on Drumhead Magazine Interview
Matt Scannell, one of the founders and lead singer of the band Vertical Horizon, was recently interview in Drumhead Magazine where he discussed his friendship with Neil Peart. Here's an excerpt:But besides that, Scannell slowly developed a personal friendship with drummer Neil Peart. Scannell?s association with 'The Professor' was not originally based on music but on a chance meeting and discovery of similar interests. Mutual professional admiration aside, the two organically developed their friendship outside the artificial bounds of recording studios, tour buses, and other rock 'n' roll scenery. Cars, watches and hiking were the order of the day; not sound checks, video shoots, and trips to Guitar Center. For the two new friends, there was no Vertical Horizon and no Rush, either - just two guys building a friendship day by day.You can read the complete interview at THIS link.
April 17th, 2007
Andrew MacNaughtan Offers Up Signed Rush Prints
Andrew MacNaughtan, long time friend and photographer for Rush, is offering up some limited-edition, signed prints of Geddy Lee, Alex Lifeson and Neil Peart from the recording sessions from Snakes & Arrows. This is a charity event so it's clearly for a worthy cause. Here's a blurb from Andrew's website:For years, I've wanted to make a documentary of Rush in the recording studio, and tell the story of the process of making an album. So, it was the opportunity of a lifetime to be a "fly on the wall" and capture rare footage of the guys at work on their upcoming release, Snakes & Arrows. The documentary, entitled The Game of Snakes & Arrows, was filmed over the course of 20 days at a beautiful studio in New York's Catskill Mountains.Click HERE for more information on the prints and ordering instructions.
The band gave me unprecedented access into their creative process and I had the privilege to witness first hand the writing and recording of their songs. In fact, I was able to capture on film a rare moment of Geddy jamming on his bass as he created a new song for the album.
To complement the documentary and to celebrate the release of the new CD, Rush have agreed to sign a very limited edition of prints to raise money for several of my favorite charities. These photos were shot exclusively at the studio sessions, during the filming of the documentary. This is a rare opportunity to own a little piece of Rush history, and it's all for a good cause!
April 14th, 2007
Snakes & Arrows Tour Currently Ranked at #1
PollStar, a site that focuses on, among other things, music concerts runs a weekly "Top 50" concerts where tours are ranked based on ticket purchasing popularity. For this week, Rush's Snakes & Arrows Tour ranked #1, jumping 8 spots from last week. You can view the complete list by clicking HERE.
April 14th, 2007
45-Second Clip of Spindrift now Online
The official band site, Rush.Com has posted a 45-second clip of Spindrift; the fifth track on the upcoming Snakes & Arrows album. The clip reveals a song with some interesting textures and clearly a very hard sound, even for Rush. Check it out and share your comments.
April 12th, 2007
Rolling Stones Names Rush Top "Guilty Pleasure Band"
When's the last time you saw an article discussing Rush and Britney Spears? For that matter, when's the last time you ever saw Britney Spears mentioned on a Rush Tribute site? Well my friends, that day is now. In none other than Rolling Stone Magazine, Rush was named the Top "Guilty Pleasure Band" with Ms. Paparazzi coming in at #25.
Those of you who proudly listen to Rush at top volume in your car all summer long, (ie thereby displaying the total lack of guilty in your pleasure), take note: Rush come in at Number One on our official list of the Rock's Undisputed Guilty Pleasure Bands. Like the rest of the acts on our list (which you helped put together), we love them to death, and can never forgive ourselves.The complete list of Guilty Pleasure Bands can be viewed by clicking HERE.
April 12th, 2007
Judge says deputies acted properly in Rush guitarist fracas
"U.S. District Judge Paul A. Magnuson has ruled against the civil claims brought against Collier deputies by Alex Zivojinovich...Zivojinovich, his son, Justin, and daughter-in-law, Michelle, had filed suit, alleging that the deputies violated their civil rights based on 'illegal detention' and 'excessive force.' But Magnuson, in his ruling issued through the U.S. District Court Middle District of Florida's Fort Myers division, didn't agree. The judge ruled that the deputies? actions 'we're objectively reasonable.'"
You can read the complete article from the Naples News by clicking HERE.
April 12th, 2007
Video Interview with Nick Raskulinecz Now Online
A video interview with Nick Raskulinecz, producer of Snakes & Arrows, is now online. Nick discusses the making of the album and notes that, among other things, Snakes & Arrows contains some of the "Best material they've (Rush) ever written.
You can view the video interview, which runs 4 minutes and 14 seconds, by clicking HERE.
April 10th, 2007
The Latest Rush News Bullets
Coming to you straight from somewhere in the middle of the Caribbean Sea, here are some of the latest Rush News tidbits.Far Cry Holds at #3That's all for now. More news to come once I get back on to the shores of the U.S.
Far Cry, which entered the mainstream Rock charts at #13 (or #15 according to some sources) have been holding at #3 for a while now. You can check out the latest chart data for Far Cry by clicking HERE.
Snakes & Arrows DVD Available Again at Amazon.Com
Amazon.Com once again has the Snakes & Arrows Limited Edition DVD available. The site goes on to reveal this about this limited-edition package: "The MVI is a DVD loaded with exciting new features. Superior sound quality plus a wide range of video and interactive content combine to bring you closer to the artists and their music. It plays in all standard DVD players, computers and game consoles with DVD drives. Digital music files are compatible with all MP3 devices. * The Rush "SNAKES & ARROWS" MVI comes in a deluxe box, and includes these 13 new songs in hi-resolution audio, the entire album in 5.1 surround sound, a video documentary on the making of the album, and more."
Neil Peart in May 2007 Motorcyclist Magazine
The May 2007 edition of Motorcyclist Magazine has an article which cites and quotes extensively from Neil Peart's Roadshow book. I'm working on getting a copy of the magazine to see what else the article covers. With thanks to my brother for the tip on this bit of news.
April 10th, 2007
Coming Soon - DVD Reissues of Rush Videos
For those of you who didn't want to purchase the 3-DVD video set Rush Replay X 3, now you'll be able to purchase the individual DVDs. Available on May 1st to coincide with the release of Snakes & Arrows, Exit...Stage Left, Grace Under Pressure and A Show of Hands are all now available for Pre-Order at Amazon.com.
Click on any of the images to the right to place your pre-order today.
April 6th, 2007
Eddie Trunk Interviews Geddy and Alex
According to Eddie Trunk's Trunk Blog, the famed Rock interviewer just completed an interview with Geddy and Alex. As you'll see from the blurb below, the 45-minute interview was shot in HD and was done so for future use by the band and not for the up-coming VH-1 special.Had the honor to once again spend the day with Alex Lifeson and Geddy Lee of Rush at the Atlantic Records office in NYC. I shot a 45 minute TV interview with the guys (shot in HD) for future use. VH1 Classic has been going through some changes and the studio is being redone so they were not able to shoot anything new with the guys this time around. However the band and label hired me directly to film an interview that they own and will use to air in several places and ways to promote the new CD. Not sure yet where it will show up, but I'll let you know when they tell me. I'll also have the audio from the interview to play on upcoming radio shows soon. As usual they were both super cool people and we spent lot's of time talking about the new CD (which sounds really good) as well as the upcoming tour, set list and some questions on their history. Really great to see them both again and I sincerely thank the guys for requesting me for this interview. Again, this was not for VH1 Classic, so I will let you know when I know where it will be shown.Thanks to reader Firefighter SAL who alerted me to this news story.
April 6th, 2007
Rush News Bullets
Though I'm on the road (and eventually the sea) this week, I wanted to still keep you abreast of the latest happenings in the wonderful world of Rush. Below are some of the highlights that have made the rounds. With appreciation to Power Windows and RushIsABand.Com for some of the news.Snakes & Arrows DVD Album Delayed Again
Once again, the limited edition Snakes & Arrows DVD Album has been delayed, this time until June 5th. Production issues are cited as the cause for the on-going delay.
Wal*Mart to release a special-edition version of Snakes & Arrows
Wal*mart is offering a CD version of Snakes & Arrows with an Exclusive Video Download. According to their website, "this package will include a video clip from the upcoming VH-1 Special on Rush." The upcoming VH-1 Special is a video of Geddy and Alex's appearance on XM's "Artist Confidential" from 2004.
Guitar World Rush Song Transcription Poll
Guitar World is currently conducting a special POLL where they are asking readers to select a Rush song that should be transcribed by the magazine.
Numerous Geddy and Alex Radio Interviews Now Online As reported earlier, Geddy and Alex were making the rounds conducting numerous Radio Interviews. At least seven of these interviews can be heard online, thanks to RushIsABand.Com.
Snakes & Arrows Tour Has Been Googled
This is pretty interesting. This link will bring you to a Google Maps page which outlines each stop Rush will make on the upcoming Snakes & Arrows tour.
April 4th, 2007
Alex Lifeson Interviews Now Online
Alex Lifeson, along with Geddy Lee, has been making the "Radio Interview" rounds of late, several of which occurred today. Two such interviews with Alex are now available online. The first interview comes from WRIF with the second interview coming from The Bone.
April 4th, 2007
Snakes & Arrows Limited Edition DVD Update
There is some question surrounding the limited edition DVD version of Snakes & Arrows (See this report for more information on the DVD version). Last week, Amazon.Com removed their page to the DVD edition, though those of us who pre-ordered it via Amazon still showed that the order was in process. Now, last night, Amazon.Com sent out an email to those of us who did pre-order it and indicated that the version was no longer available.We are sorry to report that the following item is no longer available from our supplier. However, we have learned that a substitute is available under a different Item number. You may link directly to our catalog page for the substitute using the URL beneath the unavailable item:The 'substitute' item is, of course, the standard CD version of Snakes & Arrows. Fortunately, both Circuit City and Music Today, among others, are still accepting pre-orders for the DVD version. With a reported limited run of just 25,000 units, it might be wise to pre-order your copy as soon as possible. If anyone has additional information on this situation, please let us all know by posting a comment below. Thanks.
Ordered item: Rush (Artist) "Snakes & Arrows [Limited Edition]"
Substitute: https://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B000NVIXFK
The unavailable item has been cancelled from your order. If you would like to purchase the substitute item, please visit our web site to place a new order.
April 3rd, 2007
Through the Prism: The Classical Tribute to Rush Now Available
Vitamin Records, who have produced such Rush Tribute albums as Exit...Stage Right: The String Quartet Tribute to Rush, The String Quartet Tribute to Rush's 2112 and The Piano Tribute to Rush are now releasing a "Best of" album, which is now available.What can be said about Rush that hasn't been said already? They have won more praise and awards for their work than can be catalogued here. One of the top-selling rock bands of all time, Rush has one of the largest and most dedicated fanbases in the world. And, they have been going non-stop for over thirty years. Yeah, that sums it up quite nicely.You can order the album at Amazon.Com or you can check out more information at Vitamin Records' website.
Since Exit Stage Right: The String Quartet Tribute to Rush, Vitamin Records has raised the stakes for paying tribute to Canada's favorite sons. The first album was a smash amongst fans and was soon followed by the ambitious tribute to Rush's magnum opus, 2112. More hit tributes were to come and with each record Vitamin surprised the fans with their dedication to the craftsmanship of the godfathers of modern, progressive music. With this collection, Vitamin has highlighted 14 of the best tracks from these tributes. It is an essential collection for any Rush fan and any fan of Vitamin Records' captivating tributes.
April 2nd, 2007
Rush Backstage Club Contest Update
The Rush Backstage Club has a new contest underway which offers up a chance to meet Rush at the concert venue of your choice. Here are the exciting details:Last month's contest for an R30 Leather Jacket was won by John Lauer from Oregon. The lucky so-n-so.Win A Meet & Greet!!
The winner of this contest will win a meet & greet for two at the concert of their choice during the upcoming Snakes & Arrows Tour! The winner will meet members of the band, before the show. These lucky people will have the opportunity to say hello, and have their picture taken with the guys. This is something that adds a big boost to a night at the Rush concert. This contest closes at midnight of April 15th, 2007. Simply enter your info below and we will randomly select the winner at the close of the contest.
Our system only accepts one entry per email address. Good luck!
April 2nd, 2007
Rush's R30 Fails to Bring Home the Juno
As reported earlier, Rush's R30 DVD was up for a Juno award under the category of Music DVD of the Year. Unfortunately, R30 lost out to Sarah Harmer's Escarpment Blues.The Juno Awards ceremony took place last night, April 1st, in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan.Formerly the driving force behind Weeping Tile, Canadian singer/songwriter Sarah Harmer began her solo career in 1999 playing dates with the Indigo Girls, Great Big Sea, and Moxy Fruvous. TRACKLIST: Escarpment Blues, Uniform Grey, Dandelions and Bullet Ho
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