RUSH is gearing up for their highly anticipated "Fifty Something" tour, and Geddy Lee is offering a fascinating insight into the band's preparation process. In a recent interview with Rick Beato, Lee revealed that the band is starting from scratch, meticulously curating a setlist of 38 songs for the tour. This marks a significant departure from their usual meticulous planning, which typically involves months of preparation and a vast library of songs to choose from.
What makes this particularly intriguing is the band's approach to teaching the new drummer, Anika Nilles, the intricacies of their music. Lee explains that they are essentially starting over, educating Nilles about the unique style and nuances of the band's extensive catalog. This process is no small feat, especially considering the late Neil Peart's iconic status as the band's drummer. Lee humorously notes that Nilles is learning the idiosyncrasies of a "weird, idiosyncratic band," which is a far cry from her own musical background.
The band's decision to start fresh with the setlist is not without its challenges. Lee mentions that they had to carefully select 38 songs, considering factors like relearning difficulty and personal affection. This process is a delicate balance, as they want to honor their past while also showcasing the new drummer's skills. The result is a carefully crafted setlist that will be performed over multiple nights in each city, allowing the band to explore different arrangements and interpretations.
One of the key challenges mentioned is teaching Nilles the nuances of the material. Lee describes it as a "horse of an entirely different color," emphasizing the unique learning curve she faces. This is a testament to the band's commitment to pushing boundaries and embracing change, even as they navigate the loss of their long-time drummer. The interview also reveals that Nilles was the only drummer they auditioned for the role, further highlighting the band's faith in her abilities.
The "Fifty Something" tour is set to commence with a four-night stand in Los Angeles, beginning June 7th. The tour will span two North American legs and international dates, keeping fans eagerly awaiting the band's return. The setlist, carefully curated and refined, will be a testament to the band's ability to evolve while staying true to their iconic sound. As the tour approaches, fans can expect a unique and captivating performance, showcasing the band's resilience and their commitment to delivering an exceptional live experience.
In my opinion, RUSH's decision to start from scratch with their setlist is a bold move that reflects their artistic integrity and willingness to embrace change. It's a refreshing approach in an industry often driven by nostalgia and tradition. The band's ability to adapt and innovate while honoring their past is truly remarkable. As the tour unfolds, I can't help but wonder how the new drummer will interpret and execute the band's iconic songs, adding her own unique flair to the legendary RUSH sound.
