Rush - Live 1980 (2024)_

Here we have two radio broadcast recordings from the Canadian power trio Rush. They are recorded some 6 years apart and comparing the two, you can see the evolution from a powerful heavy rock band with traditional subject matter in the lyrics to the more experimental prog rock and Sci-Fi lyric of the Neil Peart era. Only two tracks appear in both sets with one being the anthemic "Working Man", the track lifted from the first album that arguably got them noticed when championed by a US mid-west DJ. She is name checked in the intro. Again, when comparing these versions you can chart the progress of the band from truck-stop rockers to concert hall and stadium staples as version two is stretched and widened in comparison to the power trio version of session one.

Here is a chance to catch Rush in all their former glory, performing great versions of many of their signature tracks. The aforementioned "Working Man" "Spirit of Radio", and "2112" all feature, tracks that helped the band garner many accolades as regards their musicianship, both as individuals and as a collective. Their loyal fanbase will know all this material and will enjoy these powerful live versions, but this would also make a good entry level for the curious who are not familiar with the band as it spans a wide chunk of their history.

Kiel Auditorium, St Louis Missouri, 14.02.80