RUSH: Beyond the Lighted Stage

There is no reason why I should not like Rush.  The guys in this power trio are consummate musicians, staunch individualists, honest, intelligent, and far enough from the mainstream to be unaffected by the tide of commercial music.  More than just that, Rush was a huge inspiration for me growing up.  The music and lyrics meant something significant to me.  Supposedly, a lot of people feel the same way, because Rush has been considered the world's largest cult band.

With that said, it's kind of strange that their entire story hasn't been told until now.  Last year, a documentary came out, Rush: Beyond the Lighted Stage, that goes in depth with the history, dynamics, influence, trials, tribulations, and musical evolution of the group.  It's a thoughtful and well-crafted film that gives the band its due time in the limelight (pun intended).

For Rush fans, it's a smorgasbord of footage, especially old footage that featured founding drummer John Rutsey, which has never before been seen by most people.  Along with the band reminiscing their career, there's a lot of interviews with other rock stars, solidifying the fact that Rush is one of the most influential bands to other musicians.

While there is a lot for the Rush fan to love, there really is something that even those who aren't so attuned to Rush's music can appreciate.  Whether or not you're a Rush geek, this movie will give you a newfound respect for the guys in the band, as individuals and musicians.  If you're a Rush fan and you don't own this, get this movie, now.



Next week, I'm doing a video (gasp).  Yeah, I know, you get to see how homely I am, you unfortunate bastards.  I'm gonna showcase my new toy, the Retron3, and give you my impressions.