The Genius That Is Rush

I still say they're the greatest band in the world ...

For you non-Rushies ... the trio was finally elected into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame this year, after years of being snubbed.  The band, which has been together for over 30 years and is now more popular than ever, has been passed over in the past for such notables as ... Donovan ... The Beastie Boys ... Dr. John ... ABBA ... The Stooges ... The Ventures ... The Ronettes ... Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five ... Patti Smith ... The Dells ... Prince ... Elvis Costello ... The Clash ... The Flamingos ... The Moonglows ... Jelly Roll Morton ... and many more.  What B.S.

Well, Rolling Stone finally gave in and let the guys in this year.  Here is an excerpt from their acceptance speech.  Neil and Geddy gave their remarks first, then Alex stepped up and gave a wonderful rendition of the years it has taken for them to be recognized by the HoF.  Without saying a word, he said it all - and everyone familiar with the story knew exactly what he meant.

For those who didn't get it, well ... they just aren't down with Gershon's Haus of Sausages, are they?

Rush 2012/2112

Had the pleasure of seeing the world's greatest band once again last evening.  RUSH visited Dallas.

These three guys filled the AAC with an incredible sound presence.  As so many have observed, it is hard to believe that a 3 piece band can produce such a full, powerful sound.  For this, their Clockwork Angels Tour, they had an 8 piece string section accompanying them, to accurately reproduce the songs on that album - which they played in its entirety.

These three middle aged guys (Geddy and Alex are 59, Neil is 60) played for 3 hours.  Numerous selections from their '80s albums sandwiched the end to end rendition of Clockwork Angels - which is in itself one of the best albums they have ever produced.

The encore was a powerful performance of the 2112 overture - first time I have seen them do it live.  Appropriate, since 2012 is the 100th pre-nniversary of 2112.  If that doesn't make sense, you simply need to know more about RUSH.

The only drawback was the Ga-nomes.  Although funny, it didn't come close to the hilarity of Gershon's House of Sausages.  (again, if you aren't 'down' with that, you need to be more of a Rushie!)

The concert was recorded on video.  There were cameras all over the place, including one just above my right shoulder.  A DVD will be produced next year from what I saw last night, plus the concert in Phoenix a few days ago.  So, look in Section 115, row X, and you'll see me in my official RASH shirt.

Our local newspaper (Dallas Morning News) started its review of the concert with 'EPIC'. 

Geddy, Alex, and Neil - thanks guys, enjoyed seeing you immensely, and hope you make it back here sometime in the future.