Wow! I didn't expect to learn so much more about a song I've heard a thousand times, despite the fact that I'm watching someone watching my RUclips channel lol. Thank you for putting in so much effort, and going out of your way to watch a remastered live version that also happens to be one of the very best of the many live versions out there. And of course, thank you for the shoutout, Jess, look forward to more of your content. (And hey we're both named Jess, lol)
Hello Jess, Thank you very much for taking the time to comment, that means a lot! I wouldn't have been able to make this video without your incredible remastering, so kudos to you! Happy to see you here and hope you have a wonderful holiday season! Jess
Aw that's very nice of you to say, if you ever want to know the best versions of any live Rush songs to react to hit me up on IG or reply to this comment and I would be happy to point you to the ones that will please both the masses and hardcore Rush purists lol. It's been a big hobby of mine for years collecting and curating every notable official and unofficial live recording from their long history, so even if you don't see a specific song in my library chances are I still have a bunch of versions of it I can dropbox you. I'm sure you have a lot of requests but if you want to know where to go from here in terms of the most coveted live performances you cant go wrong with, Xanadu live in Montreal is the gold standard, and a couple great runners up off the top of my head would be YYZ live in Birmingham 1988 and La Villa Strangiato &/or Working Man from 2011 (played back to back as the encore so hard to not watch both! All of which I've already remastered. Happy new year to you! Look forward to seeing your new videos regardless of the artist, its very obvious that you are doing your homework and not just checking off popular songs for the views which is very admirable 😁
I just wish one reaction would mention that Neil is also adding to the full sounds by playing his MalletKat (xylophone) to support the music and percussion side. Everyone that reacts to Xanadu misses it there as well. Jess is really amazing I just think that people first reacting to Rush hear his drumming but miss the little nuance parts that he prided himself on. Okay, off my soapbox...lol
Just a brilliant explanation of this song. Your incredible musical background really allows you to show the genius behind the composition of the band. Three musical geniuses who just happened to be best friends. Rush challenges the listener lyrically and musically, which is why they've always been in my top five bands since the 70's. I was fortunate enough to see them multiple times, and my former girlfriend became a big fan after a concert. Music is applied mathematics, and at times, Rush delves into Trigonometry and Calculus. Neil was such a brilliant poet, touching on subjects important to him, and became important to us. The last part is supposed to represent the changing of stations, as the styles shift. Lifetime friends, Geddy and Alex crafted music like a spider builds a web ... son intricate, yet so captivating. Thanks so much for your wonderful breakdown.
I couldn’t agree with you more. Though music was very hard for me to learn (and I still have so much more to learn), I really enjoyed music theory because it is math, one of my favorite subjects in school. Thanks for sharing your story!
@@jessicasopranonotes Between Nightwish and Rush, there's plenty of math to enjoy. If you really want to get into the most difficult of all - try Gentle Giant. I would suggest starting with "On Reflection" live. "Knots" will tie your brain into one, but it is the most beautifully complex music I've ever heard. Thanks for being you! You are the essence of lovely.
You provide not only a thorough technical explanation of what is going on in the music but your expressiveness of your personal experience of the music while listening to it shines through wonderfully. Bravo.
Agreed. She helps me understand better why I love what I love. Like almost everyone I suspect, I can't wait to see her do even more great composers on things like Kashmir live, Bohemian Rhapsody, and Pink Floyd's Pulse version of Comfortably Numb--not to mention Peter Gabriel's In Your Eyes from his Secret World Tour, or even some of the prog rock of Supertramp, early Chicago, or Blood Sweat and Tears.
Been a RUSH devotee since 1975 & I absolutely love this reaction. Yes, RUSH is amazing and when you see them play live it’s a thing of beauty. 3 incredibly talented men who brought so much joy to so many. Thanks for this. ❤️
This is by far the most entertaining, deconstructed, detailed music analysis I've ever seen. Subbed immediately I look forward to more and will definitely seek out your previous videos. Thank you!
Today, I have been schooled. Your knowledge and effortless spouts of it, without complicating the explanation, pull me in. Rush has always blown me away by being able to perform their catalog live without the assistance of touring musicians like many other bands do. Your pointing out the multitasking, use of pedals, and for which particular effect, helped shed light on some of this. It also looked like Neil was multitasking, adding pre-recorded synth and sound at one point, from behind his drum kit. I am so looking forward to more reactions like this one. You rock my world and my frontal lobes! ✌️
I have been a Rush fan for over 40 years. You have provided insight I had never before considered. Thank you for your excellent knowledge and analysis of this great song!
Neil Peart, the drummer/percussionist, the writer of most of the band's lyrics, and the composer of the percussion and drum sections passed away three years ago this month. I continue to mourn his passing. Having never met him but having heard him interviewed (and others having spoken about him), and from I have been able to learn from his lyrics and writings (including his books) tells me that in addition to being a fine drummer he was a fine person. I continue to mourn. Given that this is the anniversary of Neil's passing, I would love to hear your reactions to more Rush.
Great presentation, but, I am a play by ear musician and when near the end you started speaking , beautifully, about the notes and stuff, it was like hearing words in reverse, understood musically by ear , but amazing description. I being one of only what I saw of five blacks at three of their concerts were maybe more happy to be there than most! Get all their albums and start from the beginning loving their songs.
Wasn't expecting this level of breakdown. I'm used to being a long time (70's) smarty pants Rush aficionado who looks down on pathetic RUclips "reaction" vids. Got happily expertlybschooled to a level unimagined. Hats off 👏
You will appreciate Rush’s “Xanadu “ live 1982 from their exit stage left tour. Their multi instrumental talents are even more on show. Alex playing double neck guitar, 12 string rhythm top neck, standard 6 string lead guitar bottom neck, plus pedals Geddy on double neck guitar, 6 string rhythm guitar bottom neck ( for filling during Alex’s solo lead) and standard bass top neck, synthesiser keyboards AND keyboard chords on foot pedals while playing bass, plus vocals Neil on percusion including triangles, chimes, coconuts, glockenspiel, tubular bells, bell tree. All live, no tapes, everything you hear, the entire soundscape is being played live by these three masters !
Best part for me is always the joy they have. Neil smiling aa they begin the show, Geddy & Alex laughing as they exchange a joke as they play. They fun they all have with the performance, each other & the audience.
Another unbelievably thorough and incisive review of my favorite band! I think you are my favorite RUclips reviewer, because, not only do you appreciate all the things we love about this music, but you also do an amazing job explaining WHY it is so unique.
I'm originally from Ohio and Rush really took off due to WMMS in Cleveland. We all rocked out to Rush in highschool and I still love the their music. You did an amazing job highlighting all the amazing things this three piece powerhouse put into their performance!
You're analysis of music theory about everything they put into this song was as good as the meaning of the song. I learned a lot as a violin player. Impressive video. Rush is my soundtrack to life.
I love Neil Peart's glockenspiel work in this, just in the background and subtle, but if you block it the sound is incomplete. Later on in his career, he used electronic sound pads so he could use them as any tuned percussion - Glockenspiel, Xylophone, gongs, and even hand, church or tubular bells at the tap of a button or footswitch. He was about the most accomplished, musical and technical drummer in rock, was not known as "The Professor" without very good reason, and was also a brilliant lyricist and author. Travelling the world by motorcycle, he collected rhythms and drumming patterns everywhere he travelled, from every style of music under the sun, and could include any of them. RIP Professor - I feel fortunate to have lived during your lifetime, and the world is a poorer place without you. A similar raspberry is blown at the "entertainment" industry in their masterpiece 2112. After two of a three-album record deal (following their self-release under their own label of their eponymous first album), the executives were pushing for more singles, as they were more profitable and generated a lot of airplay, having completely missed the nature of an album focussed band and style of music. They were playing in the last chance saloon, and it was made abundantly clear that the third album HAD to do well, or there would be no further deal. OK then - if we are going to go out, we are going out with a bang! Different it was, but not how the record execs expected - In a high-risk strategy, RUSH went exactly the opposite way - 2112 filled the whole of the first side! The album was so massively successful that even with little promotion it became a worldwide phenomenon, and from then onward, Rush was allowed to record whatever they wanted - they were effectively unsackable, and could even dictate terms and write their own contracts.
Very astute! When I heard people talking about 2112, I said to myself, “I gotta see what all this is about!” I did and ended up getting practically everything they put out. And, I really love Caress of Steel… the Nacromancer is my jam!!!
Rush was the soundtrack to my youth!!! (A teen when this first came out). Thank you SO much for this breakdown, which is as masterful as the song itself. I've heard Spirit of Radio more times than I could ever count - and yet you highlighted some things, little nuances, that were new to me. 👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏
You may want to watch the part where Geddy and Alex had their moment. When they parted Alex hit a switch to change his guitar effects and Geddy was playing the keyboard sound with his pedals. It's not a prerecorded keyboard part although they do use them in many songs, not the case there.
I was going to say the same. You can see Geddy playing the keyboard part on his pedals. Alex was just changing effects at that moment. Although Rush does have some background parts which are merely triggered, most of their parts are actually played on pedals. However, Rush also had a rule that when they did use a triggered part, it had to be triggered by a member of the band in real-time.
Great discussion in this thread just like to add the foot pedals they use are Moog Taurus pedals en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moog_Taurus , I believe both Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson had them in their rigs for this tour and I think everyone after it. They traded off duties holding down the bass note on different songs, mostly Geddy, Jess correctly observed Alex holding down the baseline while Geddy Lee did the chorus crowd interaction thing.
@@selflessself I believe they were both playing their Tauruses. Geddy has the bass notes, while Alex doubles on the string sound 2-3 octaves up. Both had the clever trick of long releases on the notes so they could tap the pedals and the note would continue. Alas, I didn’t see them until the Hold Your Fire tour in 86. I wish I’d seen this tour, as well, but I read every interview I could find on what Geddy was doing with his keyboards.
What you discussed about the waveform in the intro would be a representation of A.M. The notes falling and rising. And then the pushing back and forth.... F.M. WOW. The spirit of "radio" is ENCODED in the song!
Please cover more Rush material. Really appreciate your thoughtful and productive insight. I wish you had the opportunity to see and hear them live. Phenomenal!
The way you broke down this song was absolutely brilliant. You are the real deal. Thank you for the education and your time. Am now a fan and subscriber.
I always remember The Who singing about the distance between the audience and the band. Rush always seemed to smash this every time performed. We didn't go to see them, we went to be a part of something very special that they created. Now I've remembered it will never happen again, it's probably time for a little therapeutic cry and remind myself just how lucky I was to have experienced this.
I've loved this song for quite some time but my favourite part of the performance was your incredibly erudite breakdown, very well done Jess. You just earned another subscription with your thoroughly amazing work. Cheers from Canada!
I have listened to many of your musical breakdowns of amazing vocalists and songs but this one surprised me the most. Your kowledge of music and an ability to break it down is amazing, no matter the genre. Have been subscribed to your channel for years and am a big Rush Fan and sprit of the radio is one of my favourites. Amazing job Jess ! Really enjoyed this breakdown and reaction.
Thank you for your in depth work on explaining what was going on. Rush concerts were fun. Everyone, especially the band was having fun. So glad I took the effort to see them live.
Outstanding analysis. Solid understanding and explanation delivery - history, AM/FM sound mediums, their different band frequency constraints and developments. Pro music and voice explication coverage: vocal, timing and range. Bravo. Well done young lady 🙌
I've seen this song reviewed/reacted to a gazillion times, and this is the first that mentions ANYTHING about the lyrics at the end being borrowed from The Sound of Silence. The whole thing - brilliant. Thank you!
Superb breakdown! This song is pure genius, to me it feels like an iron fist in a velvet glove, sounds happy but the underlying message is a very real commentary on the music industry. There isn’t anyone quite like Geddy Lee, to play GOAT bass and sing in full voice and when he needs more to do plays wonderful keyboard and pedals, it is simply astounding. Thank you so much for this breakdown, awesome.
This is the song that changed music forever for me when I first heard it blaring out of the family radio in 1980. And I don't think I have seen a more detailed analysis of it. You have another new subscriber!
Awesome analysis, great insights! Rush was the first band a saw in 1978 in Montreal, I was 14 at the time, I was blown away to say the least! they always were an influence throughout my career!
You are a delight in your diagnosis! Intelligent, explorative, and appreciative. As a long time Rush fan, the intro always thrills me. Their transition from rock to reggae in the song, however, speaks to me of the band’s willingness to explore. Thank you for this.
Well, another great review/analysis (I prefer to call it the second one) of a great song. Thank you very much! It is very inspiring and great to have someone that knows and understands musical-sciences as a "reacter". Please keep the great content. Thank you very much!
I love when you pick apart a Rush song❤ It looks like you have so much fun doing it. I play by ear and find it so mesmerizing how you understand every section of music, love you God Bless
Probably the best technical analysis of any Rush song I have ever heard! Thanks! They always have been (since I first saw them in August 1974) and will remain my favorite band!
An interesting note is that touring with Kiss taught them to be entertaining on stage, moving around and getting the audience in on the action. They could just stand in place and let the music flow out but the fact that they are playing stuff this complicated and looking like they are having a wholesome good time is what really brings out their live acts. I firmly believe they had not the capacity to let fame go to their heads and always felt that their audience came first, always thankful they got to spend their lives doing what they do best.
They were obsessed with being accepted early on. After 2112, Rolling Stone magazine criticized them for acknowledging the Genius of Ayn Rand and they capitulated to their commie demands by never going there again. They had written 2112 and another earlier song called Anthem which is the title of a short story by Ayn Rand that the story of 2112 is based on. But this individualism, this speak your own mind is unacceptable with communists so Rush conformed so they wouldn't get cast out😉
Blown away by both your insightful analysis and post-production. Lots of work went into this, I can see. Well done. And your comparison of the lyrics to The Sound of SIlence was a revelation to me.
Wow. I love this masterclass experience of your analysis. My favourite part is reusing the opening riff in the middle with the vocals and then the abrupt end to the last solo. They are genius.
This song was their first radio hit. "2112" was what established them in the music industry. Technically an operetta, it was emotional and had great composition and resonataed with the audiences. The next two albums had them delving deeply into prog-rock, and had songs that became favorites, but it was this song and album that gave them a radio song. "The Spirit of Radio", in less than five mintues, incorporated everything that makes Rush... "Rush". Tricky time signatures, quirky music, style changes, incredible playing, thought-provoking lyrics, warm and inviting vocals... every unique thing about Rush is encompassed in that one song. It was an instant fan favorite and was played in every concert since it came out.
Best analysis of a Rush song I have ever seen. WOW!!! I learned a ton not being a musician it was mind blowing. Love Rush music. Now I know why. Thanks again for sharing your expertise with us all. 😎
This Home Fry is also a huge RUSH fan. Excellent analysis on this song. RUSH is so technically complex and its such a joy to sit and justblisten and be in awe at what they do. My husband piinted out that in your analysis where you said Alex uses the pedal to turn in the prerecorded synth, that he believes that he actually turned off the phaser. We have also seen RUSH many times in concert and Geddy usually had the keyboard out and played it where he was clapping in this video. Also the opening guitar riff is done using a hammer-on technique. Thank you for this reaction. Looking forward to more RUSH and Home Free reactions.
I just discovered you!! Your breakdown and reactions gave me goose bumps!! Your reaction was my reaction the first time I saw them live, I was 13 years old. It was like a religious experience. Never missed a concert again until they stopped touring in 2015. I am so excited I discovered your channel!!
Excellent analysis! The only thing I can point out is, back when this was recorded, you really didn't have the technology to trigger pre-recorded sections of songs. You could trigger samples with something like Taurus pedals, which Al was definitely doing for the bass part, but the synth part was being played by Geddy on a set of Taurus pedals, which is absolutely bonkers when you really think about it. That these guys could pull this off so flawlessly is mind-boggling. Again, fantastic and intriguing analysis! Glad I found your channel!
I'm proud as a Rush fan that you've chosen to research them. Your analyses are absolutely brilliant. I'm looking forward to more and checking out the other material you have delved into. A big thank you here from London, UK. x
Your review of this classic tune by Rush was not only fun to listen to but I felt you also educated your viewers about the music. The back ground to the song and as well as what is clearly your speciality the note progression, changing key signiture and so on. Thanks for this. Your reviews among the most well informed of any I have listened to.
You are extremely intelligent! I love your reaction and the technicality of your lecture. I mean that As a compliment. I've been listening to this band since 76 and once in awhile Someone Like You reacts to rush and I learn something I didn't know before or pick up on. I started playing piano last year and I'm so far down the pipe musically from you that I look forward to when I can read that sheet music that you've been explaining throughout the video. Thank you for taking the time to break this down!
Outstanding analysis. It warms my soul to see a music professional absorb, digest and critique the musical genius of Rush. Your breakdown and showing the music as written was awesome. I wish you well on journey with Rush.
The way you analyze the technical aspects is amazing. I love the band (and have since 1976 when I first heard them) but you have helped me understand Rush better.
Wow, that was honestly perhaps the best break down of a Rush song I've ever seen online. As a LONG time Rush nerd and music theory hobbyist (2.5 yrs in college), I adore hearing what is happening musically. Bless you dear heart. And if I could only recommend one other Rush song to you, please consider "The Weapon" off the album Signals. Cheers!
You did a great breakdown of Limelight, so I'm really looking forward to this one. If you're going with the Grace Under Pressure Tour version, as it appears, you also picked one of the best live versions.
I loved your analysis of this great song. As a long time Rush fan and musician it was nice to hear someone go through the mechanics of the song. I would also like to express my appreciation for the remastering of all this Rush material. Thank you for posting this dive into The Spirit of Radio I will be subscribing to your chanal. keep up the great work thank you.
Great reaction. I've learned a lot from you. I have heard this song thousands of times for decades and you brought a perspective I didn't even realize. Great job. You even caught the multi-tasking of the 3 member band and why we love them so. The lyrics are an indictment of the music industry. The first half is an appreciation, but the second half is an indictment. Rush has always been independent. If you listen to 2112, you will notice the same theme of independent thought against the sinister oligarchy. Hell, even Fly by Night has the same theme. I could teach a class on every album Rush released and tell you what the intention was,
An absolutely fantastic break down of the song that got me started on my Rush journey. Thoroughly enjoyed and will definitely be checking out more or your reactions. Would love to see your reaction to another fantastic Canadian band Unleash the Archers. Phenomenal musicians, incredible singer, and incredible people!
I totally agree, the intro feels very chaotic. I totally love ❤❤ an Opera singer analyzing RUSH. Pat Benatar learned her craft in Opera. I just noticed, below the chaos of the intro, drums and bass are somewhat unstable, but solid, and a real contrast to the intro guitar riff. A factoid you may not know (your musical knowledge greatly exceeds mine). When bass players are also vocalist, their baselines tend to be more melodic and upfront, as opposed to just supporting the guitar riffs. RHCPs have really nice baselines but Flea doesn't sing, so...hmmm. I guess what I'm saying, I really like songs with good baselines. Anyway, love your reactions!❤ Oh yeah, and I guess you touched on this with the clapping comments. I thought you, because you're really persistent. Yeah!
What an awesome in-depth analysis and relevant breakdown of a wonderful piece, I am sure Neil would be appreciative of the insight you are sharing with us layman. I appreciate reaction videos but you bring them to a new level. You give this so much more depth and joy, we all knew they were intelligent musicians but you really shine a bright light on just how smart their wonderful and engaging music is. Thank you.
I remember buying the album and hearing this song on my player, on the radio, in concert... and I LOVE that I'm learning things about it 40 years later that I never knew before!
Well done. The compositional breakdown you do is extremely refreshing, especially for this RUSH geek 🙂. This band has inspired me to be the musician I am and driven me to expect more each time I play. Thank you for the in depth analysis and hopefully it will inspire more people to listen to their music. Bravo!
Very interesting, insightful and intelligent review. One thing you may not have noticed is that waterfall of chaotic drum, guitar, and bass music just following the music wave is supposed to sound like changing the radio station.
You did an excellent reaction. I've heard the song maybe 50 times before and didn't know of "any" of what you just described even happened. Just great. You might check out Rush "The Big Money." Thx.
This is the first time I've come across your videos and I must say, that you go into great technical detail that I have not seen any where else. Good job, you go girl! I'll be checking your channel from now on. God bless
Wow! I didn't expect to learn so much more about a song I've heard a thousand times, despite the fact that I'm watching someone watching my RUclips channel lol. Thank you for putting in so much effort, and going out of your way to watch a remastered live version that also happens to be one of the very best of the many live versions out there. And of course, thank you for the shoutout, Jess, look forward to more of your content. (And hey we're both named Jess, lol)
Hello Jess,
Thank you very much for taking the time to comment, that means a lot! I wouldn't have been able to make this video without your incredible remastering, so kudos to you! Happy to see you here and hope you have a wonderful holiday season!
Jess
Aw that's very nice of you to say, if you ever want to know the best versions of any live Rush songs to react to hit me up on IG or reply to this comment and I would be happy to point you to the ones that will please both the masses and hardcore Rush purists lol. It's been a big hobby of mine for years collecting and curating every notable official and unofficial live recording from their long history, so even if you don't see a specific song in my library chances are I still have a bunch of versions of it I can dropbox you. I'm sure you have a lot of requests but if you want to know where to go from here in terms of the most coveted live performances you cant go wrong with, Xanadu live in Montreal is the gold standard, and a couple great runners up off the top of my head would be YYZ live in Birmingham 1988 and La Villa Strangiato &/or Working Man from 2011 (played back to back as the encore so hard to not watch both! All of which I've already remastered.
Happy new year to you! Look forward to seeing your new videos regardless of the artist, its very obvious that you are doing your homework and not just checking off popular songs for the views which is very admirable 😁
Im.watching this for the 4th time. And it blows me away how good this woman is
Yes !!!she is so technically aware ,pedals!I guess with all that sound they put out !they have to have some secret tricks ,cool 😎
Doubling down on previous comments. Carry on lovely lady.
I think this is the first Rush reaction where the use of foot pedals by both Alex and Geddy has been highlighted. Good job!
She's the best reactor on RUclips
Right? Spot on.
@@nanook637 Its not even close.
I just wish one reaction would mention that Neil is also adding to the full sounds by playing his MalletKat (xylophone) to support the music and percussion side. Everyone that reacts to Xanadu misses it there as well. Jess is really amazing I just think that people first reacting to Rush hear his drumming but miss the little nuance parts that he prided himself on.
Okay, off my soapbox...lol
Excellent point.
A beautiful woman, with a beautiful mind, reacting to a beautiful song, performed by a beautiful band. What more could one ask for?
Thats just perfection. It's beautiful to witness
Just a brilliant explanation of this song. Your incredible musical background really allows you to show the genius behind the composition of the band. Three musical geniuses who just happened to be best friends. Rush challenges the listener lyrically and musically, which is why they've always been in my top five bands since the 70's. I was fortunate enough to see them multiple times, and my former girlfriend became a big fan after a concert. Music is applied mathematics, and at times, Rush delves into Trigonometry and Calculus. Neil was such a brilliant poet, touching on subjects important to him, and became important to us. The last part is supposed to represent the changing of stations, as the styles shift. Lifetime friends, Geddy and Alex crafted music like a spider builds a web ... son intricate, yet so captivating. Thanks so much for your wonderful breakdown.
I couldn’t agree with you more. Though music was very hard for me to learn (and I still have so much more to learn), I really enjoyed music theory because it is math, one of my favorite subjects in school. Thanks for sharing your story!
@@jessicasopranonotes Between Nightwish and Rush, there's plenty of math to enjoy. If you really want to get into the most difficult of all - try Gentle Giant. I would suggest starting with "On Reflection" live. "Knots" will tie your brain into one, but it is the most beautifully complex music I've ever heard. Thanks for being you! You are the essence of lovely.
You provide not only a thorough technical explanation of what is going on in the music but your expressiveness of your personal experience of the music while listening to it shines through wonderfully. Bravo.
Thank you Robert!
Agreed. She helps me understand better why I love what I love. Like almost everyone I suspect, I can't wait to see her do even more great composers on things like Kashmir live, Bohemian Rhapsody, and Pink Floyd's Pulse version of Comfortably Numb--not to mention Peter Gabriel's In Your Eyes from his Secret World Tour, or even some of the prog rock of Supertramp, early Chicago, or Blood Sweat and Tears.
Been a RUSH devotee since 1975 & I absolutely love this reaction. Yes, RUSH is amazing and when you see them play live it’s a thing of beauty.
3 incredibly talented men who brought so much joy to so many.
Thanks for this. ❤️
These three musicians are musicians favorite musicians
Wow. I’ve never heard such an in-depth and well-conveyed explanation of any song. You do the band and the song justice.
Thanks Dusty!
Watching you rock to Rush and then explaining in depth their musicality in such sophisticated terms, I’m in love.
Seriously though, you’re awesome
As a young teenager, the lyrics "all this machinery making modern music can still be open-hearted" began a new chapter of rock history.
Your understanding of music is impeccable.
Rush are the kings of time signature changes.
This is by far the most entertaining, deconstructed, detailed music analysis I've ever seen. Subbed immediately I look forward to more and will definitely seek out your previous videos. Thank you!
Welcome Paul and thanks for the compliments! 😊
This was the most in depth reaction I have ever heard. Your musical knowledge is incredible
Today, I have been schooled. Your knowledge and effortless spouts of it, without complicating the explanation, pull me in. Rush has always blown me away by being able to perform their catalog live without the assistance of touring musicians like many other bands do. Your pointing out the multitasking, use of pedals, and for which particular effect, helped shed light on some of this. It also looked like Neil was multitasking, adding pre-recorded synth and sound at one point, from behind his drum kit. I am so looking forward to more reactions like this one. You rock my world and my frontal lobes! ✌️
I have been a Rush fan for over 40 years. You have provided insight I had never before considered. Thank you for your excellent knowledge and analysis of this great song!
Neil Peart, the drummer/percussionist, the writer of most of the band's lyrics, and the composer of the percussion and drum sections passed away three years ago this month. I continue to mourn his passing. Having never met him but having heard him interviewed (and others having spoken about him), and from I have been able to learn from his lyrics and writings (including his books) tells me that in addition to being a fine drummer he was a fine person. I continue to mourn. Given that this is the anniversary of Neil's passing, I would love to hear your reactions to more Rush.
Hey Jess, best analysis of a Rush song that I have ever seen 😊 Great job 👍🤘
Thank you Tim!
Great presentation, but, I am a play by ear musician and when near the end you started speaking , beautifully, about the notes and stuff, it was like hearing words in reverse, understood musically by ear , but amazing description. I being one of only what I saw of five blacks at three of their concerts were maybe more happy to be there than most! Get all their albums and start from the beginning loving their songs.
Wasn't expecting this level of breakdown. I'm used to being a long time (70's) smarty pants Rush aficionado who looks down on pathetic RUclips "reaction" vids. Got happily expertlybschooled to a level unimagined. Hats off 👏
What an incredible reaction and break down. I really hope you come back to explore more of Rush in the future!
Rush rocks! Literally! Awesome lyrics, music & vocals!
Thank you so much for diving into Rush's lyrics. Aside from their musicianship, Neil Peart's lyrics are nothing short of poetry.
The most musical theory applied to any RUSH reaction I've seen.
BRILLIANT!
You will appreciate Rush’s “Xanadu “ live 1982 from their exit stage left tour. Their multi instrumental talents are even more on show.
Alex playing double neck guitar, 12 string rhythm top neck, standard 6 string lead guitar bottom neck, plus pedals
Geddy on double neck guitar, 6 string rhythm guitar bottom neck ( for filling during Alex’s solo lead) and standard bass top neck, synthesiser keyboards AND keyboard chords on foot pedals while playing bass, plus vocals
Neil on percusion including triangles, chimes, coconuts, glockenspiel, tubular bells, bell tree.
All live, no tapes, everything you hear, the entire soundscape is being played live by these three masters !
Best part for me is always the joy they have. Neil smiling aa they begin the show, Geddy & Alex laughing as they exchange a joke as they play. They fun they all have with the performance, each other & the audience.
Another unbelievably thorough and incisive review of my favorite band! I think you are my favorite RUclips reviewer, because, not only do you appreciate all the things we love about this music, but you also do an amazing job explaining WHY it is so unique.
I'm originally from Ohio and Rush really took off due to WMMS in Cleveland. We all rocked out to Rush in highschool and I still love the their music. You did an amazing job highlighting all the amazing things this three piece powerhouse put into their performance!
You're analysis of music theory about everything they put into this song was as good as the meaning of the song. I learned a lot as a violin player. Impressive video. Rush is my soundtrack to life.
I love Neil Peart's glockenspiel work in this, just in the background and subtle, but if you block it the sound is incomplete. Later on in his career, he used electronic sound pads so he could use them as any tuned percussion - Glockenspiel, Xylophone, gongs, and even hand, church or tubular bells at the tap of a button or footswitch. He was about the most accomplished, musical and technical drummer in rock, was not known as "The Professor" without very good reason, and was also a brilliant lyricist and author.
Travelling the world by motorcycle, he collected rhythms and drumming patterns everywhere he travelled, from every style of music under the sun, and could include any of them.
RIP Professor - I feel fortunate to have lived during your lifetime, and the world is a poorer place without you.
A similar raspberry is blown at the "entertainment" industry in their masterpiece 2112. After two of a three-album record deal (following their self-release under their own label of their eponymous first album), the executives were pushing for more singles, as they were more profitable and generated a lot of airplay, having completely missed the nature of an album focussed band and style of music. They were playing in the last chance saloon, and it was made abundantly clear that the third album HAD to do well, or there would be no further deal. OK then - if we are going to go out, we are going out with a bang!
Different it was, but not how the record execs expected - In a high-risk strategy, RUSH went exactly the opposite way - 2112 filled the whole of the first side! The album was so massively successful that even with little promotion it became a worldwide phenomenon, and from then onward, Rush was allowed to record whatever they wanted - they were effectively unsackable, and could even dictate terms and write their own contracts.
Very astute! When I heard people talking about 2112, I said to myself, “I gotta see what all this is about!” I did and ended up getting practically everything they put out. And, I really love Caress of Steel… the Nacromancer is my jam!!!
One of the best explanations of the meaning of this song by any reactors i have watched thus far. Great musical breakdown as well.
Rush was the soundtrack to my youth!!! (A teen when this first came out). Thank you SO much for this breakdown, which is as masterful as the song itself. I've heard Spirit of Radio more times than I could ever count - and yet you highlighted some things, little nuances, that were new to me.
👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏
Me too
Amazing! Appreciate the feedback 😊
Excellent analysis! I like every point you made!
Phenomenal review, thank you for your honesty. It proves what I’ve known for years. They are masters at their craft.
You may want to watch the part where Geddy and Alex had their moment. When they parted Alex hit a switch to change his guitar effects and Geddy was playing the keyboard sound with his pedals. It's not a prerecorded keyboard part although they do use them in many songs, not the case there.
Yes. Geddy was playing synth pedals. Geddy has synth pedals at the main microphone and, under his keyboards, he has bass pedals.
I was going to say the same. You can see Geddy playing the keyboard part on his pedals. Alex was just changing effects at that moment. Although Rush does have some background parts which are merely triggered, most of their parts are actually played on pedals. However, Rush also had a rule that when they did use a triggered part, it had to be triggered by a member of the band in real-time.
Great discussion in this thread just like to add the foot pedals they use are Moog Taurus pedals en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moog_Taurus , I believe both Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson had them in their rigs for this tour and I think everyone after it. They traded off duties holding down the bass note on different songs, mostly Geddy, Jess correctly observed Alex holding down the baseline while Geddy Lee did the chorus crowd interaction thing.
@@selflessself I believe they were both playing their Tauruses. Geddy has the bass notes, while Alex doubles on the string sound 2-3 octaves up. Both had the clever trick of long releases on the notes so they could tap the pedals and the note would continue.
Alas, I didn’t see them until the Hold Your Fire tour in 86. I wish I’d seen this tour, as well, but I read every interview I could find on what Geddy was doing with his keyboards.
What you discussed about the waveform in the intro would be a representation of A.M. The notes falling and rising. And then the pushing back and forth.... F.M. WOW. The spirit of "radio" is ENCODED in the song!
You have excellent taste in music! More Rush please.
Amazing breakdown! Amazing song!
What a great music teacher you are! Thanks for reacting and teaching us so much. Congrats! 👏👏👏
Been waiting for more Rush......love love love watching you enjoy the soundtrack of my high school years for the first time.
Saw them multiple times on this very tour when I was a kid. Talk about treasured memories.
I can only imagine
Please cover more Rush material. Really appreciate your thoughtful and productive insight. I wish you had the opportunity to see and hear them live. Phenomenal!
See the arial shots, notice all the "air drummers" in the crowd,.. beauty!
The way you broke down this song was absolutely brilliant. You are the real deal. Thank you for the education and your time. Am now a fan and subscriber.
Love it, leaned a bunch of stuff!😊 more Rush please!
I always remember The Who singing about the distance between the audience and the band. Rush always seemed to smash this every time performed. We didn't go to see them, we went to be a part of something very special that they created. Now I've remembered it will never happen again, it's probably time for a little therapeutic cry and remind myself just how lucky I was to have experienced this.
I've loved this song for quite some time but my favourite part of the performance was your incredibly erudite breakdown, very well done Jess. You just earned another subscription with your thoroughly amazing work. Cheers from Canada!
I have listened to many of your musical breakdowns of amazing vocalists and songs but this one surprised me the most. Your kowledge of music and an ability to break it down is amazing, no matter the genre.
Have been subscribed to your channel for years and am a big Rush Fan and sprit of the radio is one of my favourites. Amazing job Jess ! Really enjoyed this breakdown and reaction.
Thank you for your in depth work on explaining what was going on. Rush concerts were fun. Everyone, especially the band was having fun. So glad I took the effort to see them live.
Outstanding analysis. Solid understanding and explanation delivery - history, AM/FM sound mediums, their different band frequency constraints and developments. Pro music and voice explication coverage: vocal, timing and range. Bravo. Well done young lady 🙌
I've seen this song reviewed/reacted to a gazillion times, and this is the first that mentions ANYTHING about the lyrics at the end being borrowed from The Sound of Silence. The whole thing - brilliant. Thank you!
Superb breakdown! This song is pure genius, to me it feels like an iron fist in a velvet glove, sounds happy but the underlying message is a very real commentary on the music industry. There isn’t anyone quite like Geddy Lee, to play GOAT bass and sing in full voice and when he needs more to do plays wonderful keyboard and pedals, it is simply astounding.
Thank you so much for this breakdown, awesome.
This is the song that changed music forever for me when I first heard it blaring out of the family radio in 1980. And I don't think I have seen a more detailed analysis of it. You have another new subscriber!
Awesome analysis, great insights! Rush was the first band a saw in 1978 in Montreal, I was 14 at the time, I was blown away to say the least! they always were an influence throughout my career!
You are a delight in your diagnosis! Intelligent, explorative, and appreciative. As a long time Rush fan, the intro always thrills me. Their transition from rock to reggae in the song, however, speaks to me of the band’s willingness to explore. Thank you for this.
Rush in the 80's was one the best concerts I ever had the honor to attend. Simply amazing to see these three rock it out!
The days when you could buy a cheap ticket for $12. - you took pot luck on seating, but you were at the concert.
Well, another great review/analysis (I prefer to call it the second one) of a great song. Thank you very much! It is very inspiring and great to have someone that knows and understands musical-sciences as a "reacter". Please keep the great content. Thank you very much!
You’re very welcome and will do!
I love when you pick apart a Rush song❤ It looks like you have so much fun doing it. I play by ear and find it so mesmerizing how you understand every section of music, love you God Bless
Probably the best technical analysis of any Rush song I have ever heard! Thanks! They always have been (since I first saw them in August 1974) and will remain my favorite band!
Check out her analysis of "Limelight".
Incredible explanation and breakdown of this song from the music and the singing of Geddy. Thank you for your analysis.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Do you know what you’re talking about finally somebody on RUclips great job
An interesting note is that touring with Kiss taught them to be entertaining on stage, moving around and getting the audience in on the action. They could just stand in place and let the music flow out but the fact that they are playing stuff this complicated and looking like they are having a wholesome good time is what really brings out their live acts. I firmly believe they had not the capacity to let fame go to their heads and always felt that their audience came first, always thankful they got to spend their lives doing what they do best.
They were obsessed with being accepted early on. After 2112, Rolling Stone magazine criticized them for acknowledging the Genius of Ayn Rand and they capitulated to their commie demands by never going there again. They had written 2112 and another earlier song called Anthem which is the title of a short story by Ayn Rand that the story of 2112 is based on. But this individualism, this speak your own mind is unacceptable with communists so Rush conformed so they wouldn't get cast out😉
Best analysis from rush I have seen so far. Great JOB !
Blown away by both your insightful analysis and post-production. Lots of work went into this, I can see. Well done.
And your comparison of the lyrics to The Sound of SIlence was a revelation to me.
Wow. I love this masterclass experience of your analysis. My favourite part is reusing the opening riff in the middle with the vocals and then the abrupt end to the last solo. They are genius.
This song was their first radio hit. "2112" was what established them in the music industry. Technically an operetta, it was emotional and had great composition and resonataed with the audiences. The next two albums had them delving deeply into prog-rock, and had songs that became favorites, but it was this song and album that gave them a radio song. "The Spirit of Radio", in less than five mintues, incorporated everything that makes Rush... "Rush". Tricky time signatures, quirky music, style changes, incredible playing, thought-provoking lyrics, warm and inviting vocals... every unique thing about Rush is encompassed in that one song. It was an instant fan favorite and was played in every concert since it came out.
Best analysis of a Rush song I have ever seen. WOW!!!
I learned a ton not being a musician it was mind blowing. Love Rush music. Now I know why. Thanks again for sharing your expertise with us all. 😎
This Home Fry is also a huge RUSH fan. Excellent analysis on this song. RUSH is so technically complex and its such a joy to sit and justblisten and be in awe at what they do. My husband piinted out that in your analysis where you said Alex uses the pedal to turn in the prerecorded synth, that he believes that he actually turned off the phaser. We have also seen RUSH many times in concert and Geddy usually had the keyboard out and played it where he was clapping in this video. Also the opening guitar riff is done using a hammer-on technique. Thank you for this reaction. Looking forward to more RUSH and Home Free reactions.
I just discovered you!! Your breakdown and reactions gave me goose bumps!! Your reaction was my reaction the first time I saw them live, I was 13 years old. It was like a religious experience. Never missed a concert again until they stopped touring in 2015. I am so excited I discovered your channel!!
Excellent analysis! The only thing I can point out is, back when this was recorded, you really didn't have the technology to trigger pre-recorded sections of songs. You could trigger samples with something like Taurus pedals, which Al was definitely doing for the bass part, but the synth part was being played by Geddy on a set of Taurus pedals, which is absolutely bonkers when you really think about it.
That these guys could pull this off so flawlessly is mind-boggling. Again, fantastic and intriguing analysis! Glad I found your channel!
That was just about the best breakdown of a song I’ve heard in awhile. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Thanks.
Outstanding technical analysis. Top notch audio nerding. Well done!
I'm proud as a Rush fan that you've chosen to research them. Your analyses are absolutely brilliant. I'm looking forward to more and checking out the other material you have delved into. A big thank you here from London, UK. x
Wow I remember that show was the days of only 90 minutes or so shows keep the Rush coming please, everything about them is masterful with purpose
Best reaction I've seen, and I've seen a bunch. Your insight is terrific!!!!
Your review of this classic tune by Rush was not only fun to listen to but I felt you also educated your viewers about the music. The back ground to the song and as well as what is clearly your speciality the note progression, changing key signiture and so on. Thanks for this. Your reviews among the most well informed of any I have listened to.
You are extremely intelligent! I love your reaction and the technicality of your lecture. I mean that As a compliment. I've been listening to this band since 76 and once in awhile Someone Like You reacts to rush and I learn something I didn't know before or pick up on. I started playing piano last year and I'm so far down the pipe musically from you that I look forward to when I can read that sheet music that you've been explaining throughout the video. Thank you for taking the time to break this down!
Outstanding analysis. It warms my soul to see a music professional absorb, digest and critique the musical genius of Rush. Your breakdown and showing the music as written was awesome. I wish you well on journey with Rush.
Wow, I had thought I knew everything about Rush. Your A Genius! Thank you. Look forward to more Rush. And I think you do as well. 😀
Thanks Craig, and yes, I do!
The way you analyze the technical aspects is amazing. I love the band (and have since 1976 when I first heard them) but you have helped me understand Rush better.
Wow, that was honestly perhaps the best break down of a Rush song I've ever seen online. As a LONG time Rush nerd and music theory hobbyist (2.5 yrs in college), I adore hearing what is happening musically. Bless you dear heart. And if I could only recommend one other Rush song to you, please consider "The Weapon" off the album Signals. Cheers!
You did a great breakdown of Limelight, so I'm really looking forward to this one. If you're going with the Grace Under Pressure Tour version, as it appears, you also picked one of the best live versions.
Thanks Douglas! I hope you enjoyed!
I loved your analysis of this great song. As a long time Rush fan and musician it was nice to hear someone go through the mechanics of the song.
I would also like to express my appreciation for the remastering of all this Rush material. Thank you for posting this dive into The Spirit of Radio I will be subscribing to your chanal. keep up the great work thank you.
I absolutely love your musical analysis of this song and how you emphasize the talents of these three musical geniuses. New fan from Toronto here.👍🤠🇨🇦
thank you. I've known and liked this song for decades, and now I know more about why.
Great reaction. I've learned a lot from you. I have heard this song thousands of times for decades and you brought a perspective I didn't even realize. Great job. You even caught the multi-tasking of the 3 member band and why we love them so. The lyrics are an indictment of the music industry. The first half is an appreciation, but the second half is an indictment. Rush has always been independent. If you listen to 2112, you will notice the same theme of independent thought against the sinister oligarchy. Hell, even Fly by Night has the same theme. I could teach a class on every album Rush released and tell you what the intention was,
Another great review of Rush. You explain their complexity so easily, and having the music sheets are so beneficial. thank you
An absolutely fantastic break down of the song that got me started on my Rush journey. Thoroughly enjoyed and will definitely be checking out more or your reactions. Would love to see your reaction to another fantastic Canadian band Unleash the Archers. Phenomenal musicians, incredible singer, and incredible people!
YOU NAILED IT
The Boyz” would be grateful!!!
Amazing and impressive reaction
🐐🐐🐐 🎸🥁🎸 👦👨🏻🧑🏻
I totally agree, the intro feels very chaotic.
I totally love ❤❤ an Opera singer analyzing RUSH. Pat Benatar learned her craft in Opera.
I just noticed, below the chaos of the intro, drums and bass are somewhat unstable, but solid, and a real contrast to the intro guitar riff.
A factoid you may not know (your musical knowledge greatly exceeds mine). When bass players are also vocalist, their baselines tend to be more melodic and upfront, as opposed to just supporting the guitar riffs.
RHCPs have really nice baselines but Flea doesn't sing, so...hmmm.
I guess what I'm saying, I really like songs with good baselines.
Anyway, love your reactions!❤
Oh yeah, and I guess you touched on this with the clapping comments. I thought you, because you're really persistent. Yeah!
This makes my heart rock with such joy !
What an awesome in-depth analysis and relevant breakdown of a wonderful piece, I am sure Neil would be appreciative of the insight you are sharing with us layman. I appreciate reaction videos but you bring them to a new level. You give this so much more depth and joy, we all knew they were intelligent musicians but you really shine a bright light on just how smart their wonderful and engaging music is. Thank you.
I remember buying the album and hearing this song on my player, on the radio, in concert... and I LOVE that I'm learning things about it 40 years later that I never knew before!
Well done. The compositional breakdown you do is extremely refreshing, especially for this RUSH geek 🙂. This band has inspired me to be the musician I am and driven me to expect more each time I play. Thank you for the in depth analysis and hopefully it will inspire more people to listen to their music. Bravo!
This is a woman after my own heart. Fantastic breakdown. Great sense of awareness!
Very interesting, insightful and intelligent review. One thing you may not have noticed is that waterfall of chaotic drum, guitar, and bass music just following the music wave is supposed to sound like changing the radio station.
You did an excellent reaction. I've heard the song maybe 50 times before and didn't know of "any" of what you just described even happened. Just great. You might check out Rush "The Big Money." Thx.
This is the first time I've come across your videos and I must say, that you go into great technical detail that I have not seen any where else. Good job, you go girl! I'll be checking your channel from now on. God bless
I have seen this song reviewed many many times. This review destroys them all! Well done.
The change ups in this song also reflect the way that people change radio stations in the car at the press of a button.
Thanks for pointing out this detail! So cool!
This is why we miss Neil Peart so much ....RIP Perfesser 😢😢😢😢