So this is it. At the end of this road I wanna thank you JP for the ride, your no BS and non biased comments. And your sense of humour. Even though this whole last album might not be a winner for you, I'm pretty sure you know by now how great this band was and why we fans love them so much.
Gary says: Hard to believe and yet appropriate that this would be the last song Neil Peart would ever write for RUSH! It seems to sum up his life in many ways! RIP PROFESSOR there will never be another like you! God broke the mold when he made you!
This is such a beautiful heart wrenching song. On tour it is Alex who plays the piano part. I truly love this whole album and I hope with more listens you will hear more that stands out to you. Well, you did it! You made it to the end and I really appreciate all the other things you did besides the albums. There are still lots of interviews and other Rush related things out there so I know it is not quite over. This song is gorgeous live.
For dedicated Rush fans in general and Neil Peart in particular, we know what this song represented… Made only more poignant with the end of touring and the untimely death of Neil… Love, respect, and loyalty cannot embrace objectivity… If you can’t see we understand it’s OK… For us, the forty plus year fans, Rush has been a soundtrack of our life. So thank you for being respectful and for your reactions and review. Thank you Rush and goodbye again Neil… I love you guys!
The Garden is the best combination of lyrics and melody I've ever heard. One of the most beautiful and profound songs I've ever heard in my life. in addition to the identification and connection I have (due to my life experiences) it is as if it were speaking directly to me. I've lost count of how many times I've cried listening to this song.
Justin it’s been a incredible ride with you for this Rush journey. You took on this massive endeavor and true to your word you completed it. Bravo my friend, well done. 👏👏🔥👍
There is actually material they did before their debut album. There's a vinyl 45 they put out with an original song and a Buddy Holly cover, and there are a number of songs they did live that bootleg recordings were made of. One called Garden Road can be found on RUclips.
Congrats for taking the whole trip. Quite the achievement. I'm not sure if Rush knew this would be their last song but it sure is a fitting end. You committed to taking the whole trip and I tip my hat to you for making it. I wonder how these sings will resonate with you over time. Rush has been a lifetime commitment for many of us fans. The relationship with the band was as much a part of the experience as the music. Especially watching them develop over the years. Catching all the tours. I truly miss this band. Cheers!
Every time I hear this song, I think of my dear friend Sean, a former radio host in Toronto, who passed at the beginning of this year. He loved Rush, music, and life.
They "found their way" to "the garden". Although I'm sure this isn't why, I've always enjoyed the thought that Neil's late entry into the song represents how he came into the band.
Emotional, beautiful, a masterpiece and a fitting last song to brilliant careers. As a Canadian, an Ontarian and a Torontonian, thank you Neil, Alex and Geddy, a huge part of my personal musical journey and I am proud of you. This was an amazing journey Justin, thank you for sticking with it and I know you have gained a greater appreciation for the music of Rush.
All throughout our journey, I've always appreciated the emotional undertones of Rush's music, and this one had me crying my eyes out; my mother died of cancer about a month before the CA video was released, my brother lost his own battle last October, and I'm about to close the sale on the house in which we'd lived our whole lives, and I'm highly appreciative of his friends, who are now my friends helping me through it. It really helps us to understand that it is the relationships with our friends and loved ones, like the relationships among Neil, Geddy, and Alex, that will create our strongest and most enduring legacy. Rest in peace Professor; your garden is being well looked after. 🎤 🎹 🎸 🥁 🎸 🐐 🐐 🐐
This song closed out Rush's career with a bang, without anyone realizing at first when this album came out 11 years ago. Looking back now, this song radiates a lot more than ever since it came out, the R40 Tour, and Neil's passing, it hit's a lot more harder. I don't think there's anyone out there, at least on RUclips anyway, who has done a full discography of Rush and go into detail and analysis of every song and and overview of the album after. Amazing job! Thank you for this!
RUclipsr John Slop did, and he's a bass player like Justin. But Justin has been way more thorough and actually gave an overview after each album. Justin also is doing their entire live discography as well as studio, which I don't think John did.
I try to avoid hyperbole like “masterpiece” etc, but I think the message and music of this song is very nice and a fitting way to wrap up their recording career.
It's not Geddy playing the piano, it's guest Jason Sniderman (who also played on Presto). Alex plays it live - not sure if he also wrote that part but I remember he wrote the string parts for this song because he used a keyboard to do it, and said "I don't hate keyboards that much" 😄 Edit: I've just seen an interview with Nick Raskulinecz - Alex did write the piano part, they just brought in a pianist to play it for the recording on a 'real' Steinway piano.
That’s after saying years ago - “what’s with all these keyboards - it’s not even a real instrument.” He said this when they we’re entering the studio the record Counterparts.
@@roberthussey595 that quote is from Beyond the Lighted Stage and I don't think he's being completely serious - he was into the band using the keyboards in the beginning, wrote some of their keyboard parts himself, and even played them on his own album - but yes, by Counterparts it sounds like his patience finally ran out 😏
Gary says write this: Justin says the garden and Cinderella Man were two songs that after the first listen he just had to immediately listen to again with Cinderella Man being his favorite song of all time…here comes the emojis: 😝😝😝🤘🏻🤘🏻🤘🏻🔥🔥🔥
the guitar solo on this is so great. i always pump-up the volume,🤘🎸🤘what a career, 40 years of hits,one of a kind band,we enjoy the ride,looking forward, justin, and new band ??? 🤘🤘🤘
Growing up outside Toronto I was a huge Rush fan in my teens. They played our high school, I went to two of the Massey Hall shows that were used for their first Live album All The World’s A Stage. I loved the albums from the early to late 70s. Then University, work, family, mortgage and life and music wasn’t my primary and sole passion. I lost touch, heard the albums from the 80s to mid 90s. I went to a few Rush shows in Toronto then in the mid 90s went back and caught up. My musical tastes are eclectic, I pretty much like anything but Rush ranks in my top 3. I met Geddy Lee about five years ago. I was filling up my car in northern Ontario when a Dark blue Bentley convertible pulls up and guess who’s driving with his wife and two small dogs strapped in the back seat? I nodded and thanked him for the music. He smiled, pointed to my Blue Jays hat and said “Go Jays”. I like the Clockwork Angels album, but I think The Garden is in my top ten Rush Songs.
I decided to watch and listen to this for a second time. It hits me right where I live the more times I hear it. I have said for a few years now when I breathe my last breath and friends and family gather I want this song played. Who did you touch in your life? What good did you do? Add it up. Was it a life worth living? This is what I get from it. The Watchmaker to me represents God if you are a believer but that's neither here nor there as far as the depth of this song goes. It forces me to reflect. Cheers 74'-84'....
Oh yeah I think you are the first to actually make it all the way through Rush’s discography on RUclips even though several started so congrats on that.
@@jasonbromano, yes, I was going to mention John Slop. Assuming he wasn't just exaggerating his reactions to ingratiate himself with Rush fans, he enjoyed their music much more than Justin. You can tell they made an indelible impression on him. I don't think the same thing can be said about Justin. I'm sure Justin isn't lying when he says he thinks Rush was a really good band, but it's pretty obvious they just weren't his cup of tea. That's life... and chess.
Justin, what blew me away is the live version of "The Garden" Alex played the piano/keyboard part. I'm not sure if Alex played the piano/keyboard part on the album. This song is so different than the entire 40 plus years of Rush's incredible catalog of music and lyrics. Songs that blew me away through the decades of Rush music and lyrics 1. Natural Science 2. Jacob's Ladder 3. Anthem 4. Grand Design. 5. The Garden 6. 2112 7. Subdivisions. 8. Freewill 9. Closer to the Heart. 10. Enemy Within. I'm grateful you thought the Garden was great.
A fine end to a good album by a great band. It’s a difficult ask expecting lots of good songs so late in their career. History tells us that rarely happens. In that context it’s a good album and a fitting way to sign out.
So this is the end of the road. I daresay no Rush fan can listen to this song without feeling a little twinge of emotion, particularly at 5:55 after the piano interlude when Alex's solo begins.
I know the music didn’t grab you so my comments won’t change that unless multiple listens helped. But like you, this song was the only that jumped out at me on first listen. Very different from all the other songs and I thought maybe this was written at a different time than others but don’t think that is the case. So when I listen to the entire album and how it’s so heavy in the beginning and then end on this note, I think of it more like the man’s life was kind of chaos and felt trapped and heavy in life. Then goes on his adventure which obviously don’t work out as planned and then we end on this more calming and beautiful song. I consider this song to be the man at peace in life and understanding of his role in life and what is truly important. When I consider the flow of the album, it does start to get less heavy as it progresses (with exception of headlong flight but that is still less….deep/heavy). Like the character is growing throughout the album until he hits that point of self worth. It is probably not written that way and maybe they could have written that album to be more like that but it is what I hear when I listen to the album from start to finish. It goes beyond the words for me. I do agree that some of the songs are just not strong to the point where you’d go looking for it. Carnies….nope. Lol. As for piano, Alex was possibly playing it on the recording. Not sure. He does play that part in concert. It’s a little longer in the concert. Congrats on getting through this. Remember, it’s took most of us 30+ years to hear all of this so the reactions from one record to the next was very different due to not actually knowing what they were doing and waiting years at times for one to come out. A bad Rush album was welcomed because of that. This album became much more important to us fans not just because it moved them back into more proggy stuff but also due to it being the last. Once Neil passed, it was like getting hit over the head that we will never hear him play again.
This song always makes me tear up every time. It holds special meaning to me because a mere 4 months prior to the release of CA, my life was nearly over through no fault of my own. I was the front passenger in a car with 3 other people in the car. As we were approaching a residential stop sign, our car was smashed into by an airborne vehicle. I was the only survivor. 😢😢😢 Sooooo, "The Garden" is such a fitting "end" to the album and to Rush's discography. Have we truly reached the end of Rush? Only the "fullness of time" will decide.......... RIP Professor.... 🙏🥁🙏
It was great adventure from tenuous beginnings to Permanent Waves & Hall of Fames, thru Hurricanes, HYF, & "haters", there was Grace Under Pressure thru the Wreckers and the final echos of a Cello - even Palm Tree Planters. Ulysses would be impressed. 🎉 🎉 🎉 As Barry Manilow said, "Looks Like We Made It"😃
Well, here comes the waterworks again. Shameful. Thanks to Justin for taking this journey. It was an interesting experience for me as a life-long fan. He's doing God's work.
Have seen video of Rush performing this song live from their last tour. I think the piano transition you commented on (“nice!”) was actually played by Alex (not Geddy) before his guitar solo. They continually surprised us with musical versatility enabling a three man band to make complex, multi-layered music.
I dunno Justin, to me there is something magical about this album music and lyrics wise, that make this one of my top 6 albums by them. I adore every song on this album, it is to me, just a great piece.
This song is great but I still love Headlong Flight the most because it pieced together parts of old Rush songs and created a musical quilt that covers all their glory years in one final rockin’ epic.
Justin's first reaction to Clockwork Angels reminds me of my own first reaction to Snakes and Arrows. A handful of great tracks and a bunch not grabbing me. Thankfully, that did change somewhat with more spins. I'm thinking Justin will eventually like this record quite a bit. Thanks for the RUSH journey Justin. I'm envious. Wish I could hear all these songs over again for the first time.
I've said it before and I'll say it again the garden is by far my favorite song which was only made more so with Neil's passing 😢 Thank you for taking this journey I think that I speak for most of us when I say that it was an adventure 😊😊
I have drummer friend that didn’t care for Clockwork Angles at 1st. But…, he went back a little later and said “you know,it was pretty good”. It’s a masterpiece, especially live…
Agree with everything you’ve said here. Feel the exact same way about the song, the album, concepts vs. songwriting, and the rest of Rush’s catalog. Thanks for taking the time to do this series.
It has been so much fun watching you go through this entire catalog. I have enjoyed watching you learn about my favorite band, and teach me a few things along the way. Thank you! And now that we are at this song I can say what I have been wanting to say about this album the entire time I have watched you listen to it. This album was Neil's farwell lyrically. He told us about his life from beginning to end and then said goodbye! The story tells you about a young man setting out on adventure, leaving his safety and the things he was brought up to believe. Experiencing the world in its both good and bad parts, having a tragedy that left him alone, how he chooses to continue to love even though life is difficult, his attitude toward those that have "wronged" him throughout his life. And finally stopping to rest. This entire album is about Rush saying goodbye to their fans. You say "You might as well read a book". I did. I read Neil Peart's books as told through the lens of Alex and Geddy. And they have shaped my life. "The treasure of a life is a measure of love and respect. The way you live, the gifts that you give. And the fullness of time is the only return that you expect". Mad respect to you JP for the gifts that you give! "It is what it is and forever!"
Always brings a tear to my eye. Last song from their last ever album. Also there were some reflections with this song after Neil's death. Thank you Rush for leaving us with such an amazing album catalogue 👍🎤
Ok this is my favourite and it is going to be played when I you know what eventually at my, you get it let's all be happy. Piano played by Alex bless him great job JPan
The perfect swan song for this band IMO. A beautiful song with a beautiful message. The reason I believe many of us Rush fans call this a masterpiece is because we look upon this song reflectively. We grew up listening to this band. Cruising in our cars with their songs being played on the radio. Waiting in anticipation for their next album to come out. Hanging out with friends as we put on that new record and listening to it for the first time. Remembering the experience of being at one of their concerts. This song signifies the end of all of that. Also, a lot has happened since 2012. This song is relatable to life in general. Musically and lyrically, this song evokes an emotional response for many. So yeah, a masterpiece!
I think this is similar to how I felt on my first listen too. Eventually I read the books and evolved with it while growing into an adult and it became arguably my favorite album for a while.
I’m still holding out hope you’re gonna come back around on the rest of the album… This is an amazing and maybe perfect track. But there are many other good songs on this album maybe some great ones if you give it time. After many many years as a Rush fan, thinking I had listened to about as much as I could of the earlier music, I found the one album that I played even more over and over again was this one. And as much as you’re down on Anarchist and actually now is one of my top 5 Rush songs. As you would say - unbelievable. Hey congrats, by the way, you did it!! And there’s still more to come with all your extras!
Life long fan and love all albums...some better live than studio in certain eras. Just cant get into this song, trying again tonight but i dont hold favour of faith it'll happen. As I listen a little more, drawing more closer to understanding.....thank you buddy! From west coast Canada 🇨🇦, peace.
Congratulations on making it through their discography Justin!! Great track but it’s very emotional for us long-time fans to listen to. Thanks for making revisiting it all for us interesting.
Every record was like this for me until I saw the new stuff live. Then I wore them out in the car and could hear things I missed until seeing it. Hope you enjoy the concert.
Glad that you were able to last through every album. I think this song is the best song on the album, but it stands out for RUSH fans more because of the fact that it was the LAST song RUSH ever did, and the fact that it is talking about the “measure of a life” and then a couple of years later Neil passes.
It took me quite awhile to warm up to this record. Meanwhile a lot of younger fans kept talking about how great it was so that got me to listen more and I kept finding more stuff to like. Then the fan vid of Headlong flight came out and helped me hear that song in a different way. The first 2 tracks that you warmed up to I got into more when I played them really loud. I guess my hesitancy came mostly from Geds vocals which I guess I just had to get over it even though I didn’t want to. I actually think the song writing is good and I never really think of the concept too much when I listen because I can’t get a full grasp of it just from the songs so I just think of them as individual songs. Separate The Anarchist from the concept and it’s actually a really good song in my opinion. Anyways. What a career for these guys.
Adult contemporary, sure... But this is a "meta" song... It's within the concept of the album but moreover, it's the perfect rolling credits soundtrack to their entire career, a Rock fairy-tale. 🎸🔥🍁🇨🇦🌈
Cheers, J.P. Not sure if you should get The Silver Cross for bravery in action for taking on this long journey or a Purple Heart for the length & challenging comments along the way. But 🎩's off to you. Thanks for taking the ride and sharing it with who came along. A fitting and fine finale.
😎😎❤❤ Makes me think of Neil every time. That was actually Alex on the piano in the middle - way-to-go Alex! As a Rush fan I have thoroughly enjoyed this journey with you and I love your non-Rush reactions as well, so I you'll still be hearing from me. 👀👀 Cheers! 🤟🤟
When you first announced this journey I commented that many had started this journey online, but at the time, none had completed the journey that those of us growing up with this band went on over 10, 20, 30 and for some 40 years. I applaud your work. Loved the journey with you. Now it's time to say "Yes" j/k 😂
This song made me teary yet again. More poignant now with Neil gone too young. All he wanted was to be dad and husband. By all accounts he held on longer than any doctor thought he would, and yet, gone too soon. But look at this: 40 years of music, and more people listening, enjoying, possibly appreciating, maybe even becoming a new fan. That’s a hell of a gift to the world, to just do the best you can, and hope someone enjoys. Great journey Justin. The honesty, hilarity, the kitty. Reminds me of when me and my buddies would share music with each other that was maybe a new discovery for someone. I miss those days, but this was a bit like that, and look at many came along for the ride. Way more than would fit in my apartment anyway. Cool. See you in the overview. 🍻
He barely had any time to enjoy his retirement. Their last concet was August 1, 2015. Within a year he got the diagnosis, and three and a half years after that he was gone. I read that he was trying to encourage his daughter to get into drumming, even setting up his old drum set in the living room for her.
This is the first time I’ve listened to these songs since the album’s release and subsequent tours. As far as the concept goes, I’d take the priests over the watchmaker & “assuming control” over “The Garden” everyday & twice on Sundays.
Tears…every time! Alex’s solo is among the best of his career. In the live version, Alex plays the keyboards which, knowing how much trouble he had with Geddy adding keyboards, makes me smile. You need to watch just the Clockwork Angels section of that tour.
Congrats on (I'm assuming) the only full Rush discography (honest) reaction on youtube 😮👍 I'm still hoping to hear that the Grace Under Pressure effect kicked in as you re-listened to Clockwork... For me, The Garden is the next Closer to the Heart, but the album is definitely the next Grace Under Pressure in the way it all holds together, and also a bit of a diversion from what you were thinking their next album would be like....
The real Rush fans are the ones who congratulated Justin upon the release of this vid, don't you think so, @yes_head? 😁 I was just checking back today, and am actually surprised at so few congrats to Justin on this release....😑
Best song on the album. The piano part was written by Alex. On the studio recording it was played by Jason Sniderman. Alex played the part for live performances.
In my opinion, this is a great song and a fitting end to an epic band. Thanks for all your hard work on their catalog. It has been been quite a rush from a 74 to 84 Rush fan. 😂
I can't wait to see your reaction to the album tomorrow, after hearing it a kazillion more times. Truth be told, after I heard it a ton, my second favorite on the album after "The Garden" is "The Anarchist." LOL. And congratulations to whoever wins the book. My copy is showing its use.
@@mikemurphymagicAnd, now, I can't wait until Justin reacts to R40 (CA Live first)!! With his new favorite song "The Anarchist" somewhere there! JK, Justin, but I have had R40 playing in my car an awful lot these last few years. I'll save the rest of my comments on R40 for when you go through the toll booth for THAT portion of your journey.
Hands down the best track of the album imo. And probably the most memorable last song from a last record from any rock band ever.
So this is it. At the end of this road I wanna thank you JP for the ride, your no BS and non biased comments. And your sense of humour. Even though this whole last album
might not be a winner for you, I'm pretty sure you know by now how great this band was and why we fans love them so much.
Here's to you, J.P.
Gary says: Hard to believe and yet appropriate that this would be the last song Neil Peart would ever write for RUSH! It seems to sum up his life in many ways! RIP PROFESSOR there will never be another like you! God broke the mold when he made you!
Don't be sad the Rush studio album journey has come to the end, folks. Smile because it happened. Congrats JP on running this marathon.
Well said Eric. Agree 💯. Thanks again Justin 💪
This is such a beautiful heart wrenching song. On tour it is Alex who plays the piano part. I truly love this whole album and I hope with more listens you will hear more that stands out to you. Well, you did it! You made it to the end and I really appreciate all the other things you did besides the albums. There are still lots of interviews and other Rush related things out there so I know it is not quite over. This song is gorgeous live.
For dedicated Rush fans in general and Neil Peart in particular, we know what this song represented… Made only more poignant with the end of touring and the untimely death of Neil… Love, respect, and loyalty cannot embrace objectivity… If you can’t see we understand it’s OK… For us, the forty plus year fans, Rush has been a soundtrack of our life. So thank you for being respectful and for your reactions and review. Thank you Rush and goodbye again Neil… I love you guys!
While we're marking the last of the lasts, the last solo from Mr. Alex Lifeson at 5:56 😭
One of his best ever in my book. And there were an awful lot of great ones.
Beautiful song
"There was not a dry eye in the studio.” - Neil Peart
The Garden is the best combination of lyrics and melody I've ever heard. One of the most beautiful and profound songs I've ever heard in my life. in addition to the identification and connection I have (due to my life experiences) it is as if it were speaking directly to me. I've lost count of how many times I've cried listening to this song.
Justin it’s been a incredible ride with you for this Rush journey. You took on this massive endeavor and true to your word you completed it. Bravo my friend, well done. 👏👏🔥👍
There is actually material they did before their debut album. There's a vinyl 45 they put out with an original song and a Buddy Holly cover, and there are a number of songs they did live that bootleg recordings were made of. One called Garden Road can be found on RUclips.
Lifeson plays the piano on their R40 tour!
Congrats for taking the whole trip. Quite the achievement. I'm not sure if Rush knew this would be their last song but it sure is a fitting end. You committed to taking the whole trip and I tip my hat to you for making it. I wonder how these sings will resonate with you over time. Rush has been a lifetime commitment for many of us fans. The relationship with the band was as much a part of the experience as the music. Especially watching them develop over the years. Catching all the tours. I truly miss this band. Cheers!
Every time I hear this song, I think of my dear friend Sean, a former radio host in Toronto, who passed at the beginning of this year. He loved Rush, music, and life.
This song is a perfect bookend to an expansive career. It transcends this album and it’s storyline.
They "found their way" to "the garden". Although I'm sure this isn't why, I've always enjoyed the thought that Neil's late entry into the song represents how he came into the band.
Piano interlude and guitar solo have such emotional impact. Magical for me. Special thanks incoming as promised.
I have to admit I’m sad we are at the end. 😢😢😢I think you need to listen to it more for sure.
Emotional, beautiful, a masterpiece and a fitting last song to brilliant careers. As a Canadian, an Ontarian and a Torontonian, thank you Neil, Alex and Geddy, a huge part of my personal musical journey and I am proud of you.
This was an amazing journey Justin, thank you for sticking with it and I know you have gained a greater appreciation for the music of Rush.
All throughout our journey, I've always appreciated the emotional undertones of Rush's music, and this one had me crying my eyes out; my mother died of cancer about a month before the CA video was released, my brother lost his own battle last October, and I'm about to close the sale on the house in which we'd lived our whole lives, and I'm highly appreciative of his friends, who are now my friends helping me through it. It really helps us to understand that it is the relationships with our friends and loved ones, like the relationships among Neil, Geddy, and Alex, that will create our strongest and most enduring legacy. Rest in peace Professor; your garden is being well looked after.
🎤 🎹 🎸 🥁 🎸 🐐 🐐 🐐
This song closed out Rush's career with a bang, without anyone realizing at first when this album came out 11 years ago. Looking back now, this song radiates a lot more than ever since it came out, the R40 Tour, and Neil's passing, it hit's a lot more harder.
I don't think there's anyone out there, at least on RUclips anyway, who has done a full discography of Rush and go into detail and analysis of every song and and overview of the album after. Amazing job!
Thank you for this!
RUclipsr John Slop did, and he's a bass player like Justin. But Justin has been way more thorough and actually gave an overview after each album. Justin also is doing their entire live discography as well as studio, which I don't think John did.
@@DionysusAlSBrad Poynter did it as well and also a bass player check it out
You did it, JPan. The whole discography. Thank you, and congrats! 🤩
I dont' know if it's a masterpiece, but I think it's beautiful and absolutely the most fitting song for the end of a career.
Simply one of the most beautiful songs Rush ever wrote. The fact that it is the last song on their epic 40 year discography is poetic!
I try to avoid hyperbole like “masterpiece” etc, but I think the message and music of this song is very nice and a fitting way to wrap up their recording career.
It's not Geddy playing the piano, it's guest Jason Sniderman (who also played on Presto). Alex plays it live - not sure if he also wrote that part but I remember he wrote the string parts for this song because he used a keyboard to do it, and said "I don't hate keyboards that much" 😄 Edit: I've just seen an interview with Nick Raskulinecz - Alex did write the piano part, they just brought in a pianist to play it for the recording on a 'real' Steinway piano.
That’s after saying years ago - “what’s with all these keyboards - it’s not even a real instrument.” He said this when they we’re entering the studio the record Counterparts.
@@roberthussey595 that quote is from Beyond the Lighted Stage and I don't think he's being completely serious - he was into the band using the keyboards in the beginning, wrote some of their keyboard parts himself, and even played them on his own album - but yes, by Counterparts it sounds like his patience finally ran out 😏
Gary says write this: Justin says the garden and Cinderella Man were two songs that after the first listen he just had to immediately listen to again with Cinderella Man being his favorite song of all time…here comes the emojis: 😝😝😝🤘🏻🤘🏻🤘🏻🔥🔥🔥
Thank you for not sh*tting on this song 😂
the guitar solo on this is so great. i always pump-up the volume,🤘🎸🤘what a career, 40 years of hits,one of a kind band,we enjoy the ride,looking forward, justin, and new band ??? 🤘🤘🤘
Growing up outside Toronto I was a huge Rush fan in my teens. They played our high school, I went to two of the Massey Hall shows that were used for their first Live album All The World’s A Stage. I loved the albums from the early to late 70s. Then University, work, family, mortgage and life and music wasn’t my primary and sole passion. I lost touch, heard the albums from the 80s to mid 90s. I went to a few Rush shows in Toronto then in the mid 90s went back and caught up. My musical tastes are eclectic, I pretty much like anything but Rush ranks in my top 3. I met Geddy Lee about five years ago. I was filling up my car in northern Ontario when a Dark blue Bentley convertible pulls up and guess who’s driving with his wife and two small dogs strapped in the back seat? I nodded and thanked him for the music. He smiled, pointed to my Blue Jays hat and said “Go Jays”. I like the Clockwork Angels album, but I think The Garden is in my top ten Rush Songs.
That’s a great story.
Being the last song . Like his swan song brought a tear to my eye.
This song is great. It would be better if I could listen to it without being an emotional wreck at the end of it.
Yep! 😭
My favourite song. It eclipses every other song they have made for me. Maybe i am bias. It hit at the perfect time. Long lifer of Rush.
Don't know if everyone's aware, but the clock on the album cover is at 9:12. In military time, it's 21:12. Coincidence?
And it's Neil's birthday also. With Rush there are no coincidences.
I decided to watch and listen to this for a second time. It hits me right where I live the more times I hear it. I have said for a few years now when I breathe my last breath and friends and family gather I want this song played. Who did you touch in your life? What good did you do? Add it up. Was it a life worth living? This is what I get from it. The Watchmaker to me represents God if you are a believer but that's neither here nor there as far as the depth of this song goes. It forces me to reflect. Cheers 74'-84'....
Told my family the same❤
Oh yeah I think you are the first to actually make it all the way through Rush’s discography on RUclips even though several started so congrats on that.
John Slop did the entire discography a little before Justin did.
@@jasonbromano, yes, I was going to mention John Slop. Assuming he wasn't just exaggerating his reactions to ingratiate himself with Rush fans, he enjoyed their music much more than Justin. You can tell they made an indelible impression on him. I don't think the same thing can be said about Justin. I'm sure Justin isn't lying when he says he thinks Rush was a really good band, but it's pretty obvious they just weren't his cup of tea. That's life... and chess.
Justin, what blew me away is the live version of "The Garden" Alex played the piano/keyboard part. I'm not sure if Alex played the piano/keyboard part on the album. This song is so different than the entire 40 plus years of Rush's incredible catalog of music and lyrics. Songs that blew me away through the decades of Rush music and lyrics 1. Natural Science 2. Jacob's Ladder 3. Anthem 4. Grand Design. 5. The Garden 6. 2112 7. Subdivisions. 8. Freewill 9. Closer to the Heart. 10. Enemy Within. I'm grateful you thought the Garden was great.
A fine end to a good album by a great band. It’s a difficult ask expecting lots of good songs so late in their career. History tells us that rarely happens. In that context it’s a good album and a fitting way to sign out.
So this is the end of the road. I daresay no Rush fan can listen to this song without feeling a little twinge of emotion, particularly at 5:55 after the piano interlude when Alex's solo begins.
Yup! Along with the little drum fill that leads into it. Not super flashy; just perfect.
I know the music didn’t grab you so my comments won’t change that unless multiple listens helped. But like you, this song was the only that jumped out at me on first listen. Very different from all the other songs and I thought maybe this was written at a different time than others but don’t think that is the case.
So when I listen to the entire album and how it’s so heavy in the beginning and then end on this note, I think of it more like the man’s life was kind of chaos and felt trapped and heavy in life. Then goes on his adventure which obviously don’t work out as planned and then we end on this more calming and beautiful song. I consider this song to be the man at peace in life and understanding of his role in life and what is truly important.
When I consider the flow of the album, it does start to get less heavy as it progresses (with exception of headlong flight but that is still less….deep/heavy). Like the character is growing throughout the album until he hits that point of self worth.
It is probably not written that way and maybe they could have written that album to be more like that but it is what I hear when I listen to the album from start to finish. It goes beyond the words for me.
I do agree that some of the songs are just not strong to the point where you’d go looking for it. Carnies….nope. Lol.
As for piano, Alex was possibly playing it on the recording. Not sure. He does play that part in concert. It’s a little longer in the concert.
Congrats on getting through this. Remember, it’s took most of us 30+ years to hear all of this so the reactions from one record to the next was very different due to not actually knowing what they were doing and waiting years at times for one to come out. A bad Rush album was welcomed because of that. This album became much more important to us fans not just because it moved them back into more proggy stuff but also due to it being the last. Once Neil passed, it was like getting hit over the head that we will never hear him play again.
i read The Garden and The Anarchist were written early on, around the same time as Caravan and BU2B.
This song always makes me tear up every time. It holds special meaning to me because a mere 4 months prior to the release of CA, my life was nearly over through no fault of my own. I was the front passenger in a car with 3 other people in the car. As we were approaching a residential stop sign, our car was smashed into by an airborne vehicle. I was the only survivor. 😢😢😢
Sooooo, "The Garden" is such a fitting "end" to the album and to Rush's discography. Have we truly reached the end of Rush? Only the "fullness of time" will decide..........
RIP Professor.... 🙏🥁🙏
It was great adventure from tenuous beginnings to Permanent Waves & Hall of Fames, thru Hurricanes, HYF, & "haters", there was Grace Under Pressure thru the Wreckers and the final echos of a Cello - even Palm Tree Planters. Ulysses would be impressed. 🎉 🎉 🎉
As Barry Manilow said, "Looks Like We Made It"😃
hold your fire and haters, 🤣😂🤣tai shan🙏
Many have tried, many have failed. I admire your tenacity. 😊🎉
Well, here comes the waterworks again. Shameful. Thanks to Justin for taking this journey. It was an interesting experience for me as a life-long fan. He's doing God's work.
Everything everyone said below… ditto!! Best “last song” ever!! Be well and God bless… from Texas!!
Alex’s guitar solo is beautiful and one of his best ever!
Headlong flight. Wreckers, Caravan, and The Garden are some of the best songs they ever wrote.
Have seen video of Rush performing this song live from their last tour. I think the piano transition you commented on (“nice!”) was actually played by Alex (not Geddy) before his guitar solo.
They continually surprised us with musical versatility enabling a three man band to make complex, multi-layered music.
I dunno Justin, to me there is something magical about this album music and lyrics wise, that make this one of my top 6 albums by them. I adore every song on this album, it is to me, just a great piece.
One of the rare times Alex played keyboards and he played this live, Also Alex singing back up
Thanks , it's been a great ride ❤
That's Alex playing the piano. Yes I was surprised too when I saw it the first time.
This song is great but I still love Headlong Flight the most because it pieced together parts of old Rush songs and created a musical quilt that covers all their glory years in one final rockin’ epic.
Justin's first reaction to Clockwork Angels reminds me of my own first reaction to Snakes and Arrows. A handful of great tracks and a bunch not grabbing me. Thankfully, that did change somewhat with more spins. I'm thinking Justin will eventually like this record quite a bit. Thanks for the RUSH journey Justin. I'm envious. Wish I could hear all these songs over again for the first time.
What an amazing musical journey you have taken!
It would be interesting to compare RUSH’s first self titled album to Clockwork Angels - their last!
I've said it before and I'll say it again the garden is by far my favorite song which was only made more so with Neil's passing 😢 Thank you for taking this journey I think that I speak for most of us when I say that it was an adventure 😊😊
the whole album whit the orchestra was amazing!
The other tracks will grow on you. I promise. And i say that as someone who last enjoyed Signals. Clockwork Angels is a masterpiece.
I think perhaps the most profound final song from any band ever.... EVER!
I have drummer friend that didn’t care for Clockwork Angles at 1st. But…, he went back a little later and said “you know,it was pretty good”. It’s a masterpiece, especially live…
Agree with everything you’ve said here. Feel the exact same way about the song, the album, concepts vs. songwriting, and the rest of Rush’s catalog.
Thanks for taking the time to do this series.
Interesting note: The guitar solo was recorded in Geddy's home studio while Geddy slept on the couch. The album version is that take.
What a song to go out with and end a stunning journey that has lasted over 40 years
Lyrics are always an extra bonus
It has been so much fun watching you go through this entire catalog. I have enjoyed watching you learn about my favorite band, and teach me a few things along the way. Thank you!
And now that we are at this song I can say what I have been wanting to say about this album the entire time I have watched you listen to it.
This album was Neil's farwell lyrically. He told us about his life from beginning to end and then said goodbye! The story tells you about a young man setting out on adventure, leaving his safety and the things he was brought up to believe. Experiencing the world in its both good and bad parts, having a tragedy that left him alone, how he chooses to continue to love even though life is difficult, his attitude toward those that have "wronged" him throughout his life. And finally stopping to rest. This entire album is about Rush saying goodbye to their fans.
You say "You might as well read a book". I did. I read Neil Peart's books as told through the lens of Alex and Geddy. And they have shaped my life.
"The treasure of a life is a measure of love and respect. The way you live, the gifts that you give. And the fullness of time is the only return that you expect".
Mad respect to you JP for the gifts that you give!
"It is what it is and forever!"
Gary says write this: Justin(SONGS)Panariello
Famous Alice Cooper quote.”I get it, your angry… but where’s the song?”
Always brings a tear to my eye. Last song from their last ever album. Also there were some reflections with this song after Neil's death. Thank you Rush for leaving us with such an amazing album catalogue 👍🎤
Ok this is my favourite and it is going to be played when I you know what eventually at my, you get it let's all be happy. Piano played by Alex bless him great job JPan
The perfect swan song for this band IMO. A beautiful song with a beautiful message. The reason I believe many of us Rush fans call this a masterpiece is because we look upon this song reflectively. We grew up listening to this band. Cruising in our cars with their songs being played on the radio. Waiting in anticipation for their next album to come out. Hanging out with friends as we put on that new record and listening to it for the first time. Remembering the experience of being at one of their concerts. This song signifies the end of all of that. Also, a lot has happened since 2012. This song is relatable to life in general. Musically and lyrically, this song evokes an emotional response for many. So yeah, a masterpiece!
Goosebumps...😎
I think this is similar to how I felt on my first listen too. Eventually I read the books and evolved with it while growing into an adult and it became arguably my favorite album for a while.
I’m still holding out hope you’re gonna come back around on the rest of the album… This is an amazing and maybe perfect track. But there are many other good songs on this album maybe some great ones if you give it time. After many many years as a Rush fan, thinking I had listened to about as much as I could of the earlier music, I found the one album that I played even more over and over again was this one. And as much as you’re down on Anarchist and actually now is one of my top 5 Rush songs. As you would say - unbelievable. Hey congrats, by the way, you did it!! And there’s still more to come with all your extras!
Life long fan and love all albums...some better live than studio in certain eras.
Just cant get into this song, trying again tonight but i dont hold favour of faith it'll happen.
As I listen a little more, drawing more
closer to understanding.....thank you buddy!
From west coast Canada 🇨🇦, peace.
Congratulations on making it through their discography Justin!! Great track but it’s very emotional for us long-time fans to listen to. Thanks for making revisiting it all for us interesting.
Every record was like this for me until I saw the new stuff live. Then I wore them out in the car and could hear things I missed until seeing it. Hope you enjoy the concert.
Glad that you were able to last through every album. I think this song is the best song on the album, but it stands out for RUSH fans more because of the fact that it was the LAST song RUSH ever did, and the fact that it is talking about the “measure of a life” and then a couple of years later Neil passes.
It took me quite awhile to warm up to this record. Meanwhile a lot of younger fans kept talking about how great it was so that got me to listen more and I kept finding more stuff to like. Then the fan vid of Headlong flight came out and helped me hear that song in a different way. The first 2 tracks that you warmed up to I got into more when I played them really loud. I guess my hesitancy came mostly from Geds vocals which I guess I just had to get over it even though I didn’t want to. I actually think the song writing is good and I never really think of the concept too much when I listen because I can’t get a full grasp of it just from the songs so I just think of them as individual songs. Separate The Anarchist from the concept and it’s actually a really good song in my opinion. Anyways. What a career for these guys.
It’s funny you say that. I find that I like this album Particularly headlong flight cranked up loud too
Ironic their last ever song is one of their most interesting and creative. Wished they had varied their sound more, especially from the 90s on.
Adult contemporary, sure... But this is a "meta" song... It's within the concept of the album but moreover, it's the perfect rolling credits soundtrack to their entire career, a Rock fairy-tale. 🎸🔥🍁🇨🇦🌈
Cheers, J.P. Not sure if you should get The Silver Cross for bravery in action for taking on this long journey or a Purple Heart for the length & challenging comments along the way.
But 🎩's off to you.
Thanks for taking the ride and sharing it with who came along.
A fitting and fine finale.
😎😎❤❤ Makes me think of Neil every time. That was actually Alex on the piano in the middle - way-to-go Alex!
As a Rush fan I have thoroughly enjoyed this journey with you and I love your non-Rush reactions as well, so I you'll still be hearing from me. 👀👀 Cheers! 🤟🤟
What a journey!
One of the many Rush songs that is better live. IMO.
Great hearing your thoughts about this last recorded album of such a remarkable band.
A absolutely beautiful song to end an absolutely wonderful career
When you first announced this journey I commented that many had started this journey online, but at the time, none had completed the journey that those of us growing up with this band went on over 10, 20, 30 and for some 40 years. I applaud your work. Loved the journey with you.
Now it's time to say "Yes" j/k 😂
This song made me teary yet again. More poignant now with Neil gone too young. All he wanted was to be dad and husband. By all accounts he held on longer than any doctor thought he would, and yet, gone too soon.
But look at this: 40 years of music, and more people listening, enjoying, possibly appreciating, maybe even becoming a new fan. That’s a hell of a gift to the world, to just do the best you can, and hope someone enjoys.
Great journey Justin. The honesty, hilarity, the kitty. Reminds me of when me and my buddies would share music with each other that was maybe a new discovery for someone. I miss those days, but this was a bit like that, and look at many came along for the ride. Way more than would fit in my apartment anyway. Cool. See you in the overview. 🍻
He barely had any time to enjoy his retirement. Their last concet was August 1, 2015. Within a year he got the diagnosis, and three and a half years after that he was gone.
I read that he was trying to encourage his daughter to get into drumming, even setting up his old drum set in the living room for her.
Some songs on the R40 Tour and Live In YYZ 1981 next ? ;-)
I can't think of a better song to bookend a career. I don't listen it to very often though it leaves me an emotional mess. Cheers!
This is the first time I’ve listened to these songs since the album’s release and subsequent tours.
As far as the concept goes, I’d take the priests over the watchmaker & “assuming control” over “The Garden” everyday & twice on Sundays.
Tears…every time! Alex’s solo is among the best of his career. In the live version, Alex plays the keyboards which, knowing how much trouble he had with Geddy adding keyboards, makes me smile. You need to watch just the Clockwork Angels section of that tour.
The piano man for this song is Alex, or at least he played that part in the concerts
It took a few listens with the rest of the album. The Garden jumped out at me immediately and became one of my favorite Rush songs
C+ Adult Contemporary 🐾
A+ Ear Candy lol
Congrats on (I'm assuming) the only full Rush discography (honest) reaction on youtube 😮👍 I'm still hoping to hear that the Grace Under Pressure effect kicked in as you re-listened to Clockwork... For me, The Garden is the next Closer to the Heart, but the album is definitely the next Grace Under Pressure in the way it all holds together, and also a bit of a diversion from what you were thinking their next album would be like....
The real Rush fans are the ones who congratulated Justin upon the release of this vid, don't you think so, @yes_head? 😁 I was just checking back today, and am actually surprised at so few congrats to Justin on this release....😑
Best song on the album. The piano part was written by Alex. On the studio recording it was played by Jason Sniderman. Alex played the part for live performances.
You can read the books if you would like. Neil and Kevin Anderson wrote a trilogy about clockwork angels.
In my opinion, this is a great song and a fitting end to an epic band. Thanks for all your hard work on their catalog. It has been been quite a rush from a 74 to 84 Rush fan. 😂
I can't wait to see your reaction to the album tomorrow, after hearing it a kazillion more times. Truth be told, after I heard it a ton, my second favorite on the album after "The Garden" is "The Anarchist." LOL. And congratulations to whoever wins the book. My copy is showing its use.
Totally. I was surprised he didn't at least think the Anarchist was "fine" at first. It's such a good song! It was the R40 opener ffs. I love it.
@@mikemurphymagicAnd, now, I can't wait until Justin reacts to R40 (CA Live first)!! With his new favorite song "The Anarchist" somewhere there! JK, Justin, but I have had R40 playing in my car an awful lot these last few years. I'll save the rest of my comments on R40 for when you go through the toll booth for THAT portion of your journey.