Album Information:

About Rush:

Rush was a Canadian rock band that formed in 1968, consisting of bassist, keyboardist, and lead vocalist Geddy Lee, guitarist Alex Lifeson, and drummer Neil Peart. The band's focus on complex, progressive rock with philosophical and science-fiction themes, combined with their musicianship and virtuosity, earned them a dedicated following and critical acclaim.

The band's early albums, including their self-titled debut in 1974, Fly By Night in 1975, and 2112 in 1976, solidified their reputation as masters of epic, guitar-heavy rock. As they progressed, Rush's sound evolved to incorporate synthesizers and electronic influences, as well as incorporating a more pop-oriented approach on their later albums like Presto (1989) and Roll the Bones (1991).

Throughout their nearly 50-year career, Rush released a total of 19 studio albums, 11 live albums, and a variety of other recordings. They sold over 40 million albums worldwide and were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2013.

Beyond their music, Rush were also known for their deep, introspective lyrics that explored themes of individualism, free will, and the human experience. This was largely thanks to the lyrical contribution of Neil Peart, who joined the band in 1974 and quickly became one of the most highly-regarded drummers and lyricists in rock history. Peart's tragic death in 2020 brought an end to Rush's career, but their legacy remains an enduring influence on rock music.

About the album Snakes & Arrows:

Snakes & Arrows is the seventeenth studio album by Canadian rock band Rush, released on May 1, 2007. It is a progressive rock album and is considered by many fans and critics to be one of the band's best records in years.

The album consists of 13 tracks that span just over an hour in total duration, and includes some of the band's longest compositions to date, such as 'The Main Monkey Business' and 'The Way the Wind Blows'. The lyrics on the album revolve around themes of spiritualism, human psychology, societal issues, and personal growth and transformation.

The opening track, 'Far Cry', features a strong, driven rhythm section and is known for its catchy chorus. 'Armor and Sword' begins with a soft guitar intro, which gradually builds up to a powerful chorus. 'Workin' Them Angels' is a melodic rock song that features some of the best guitar work on the album, while 'The Larger Bowl (A Pantoum)' deals with the theme of the individual versus society.

'The Main Monkey Business' is a 12-minute instrumental piece that showcases the band's instrumental prowess, with intricate guitar lines, bass solos, and complex drumming by Neil Peart. 'The Way the Wind Blows' features a memorable guitar riff and a bluesy feel, while 'Hope' is a slow, contemplative ballad that deals with overcoming hardship.

'Faithless' is a song that questions the validity of religious beliefs, while 'Bravest Face' deals with personal relationships and the fear of emotional vulnerability. 'Good News First' is another track that deals with societal issues such as propaganda and misinformation in the media.

'The Garden' is the final track on the album, and is a slow, introspective song that deals with mortality and the beauty of life. It features a beautiful acoustic guitar and string arrangement, and is one of the most emotional and powerful songs on the album.

Overall, Snakes & Arrows is a progressive rock masterpiece that showcases the band's musical abilities and songwriting craft. It is a must-listen for all fans of Rush, and is widely considered to be one of the band's greatest achievements.

Members:

Geddy Lee: Born on July 29, 1953, in Toronto, Canada, Geddy Lee is a renowned musician, songwriter, and singer. He started playing music at a very young age and formed his first band in high school. In 1968, he met Alex Lifeson and John Rutsey and formed Rush. Lee played bass guitar, keyboards, and served as the lead vocalist for the band for more than four decades. He is known for his high-pitched singing and virtuosic bass guitar playing.

Neil Peart: Born on September 12, 1952, in Hamilton, Canada, Neil Peart was the drummer and lyricist for Rush. He joined the band in 1974, replacing original drummer John Rutsey. Peart is considered one of the greatest drummers of all time and was known for his complex and innovative drumming style. He was also the band's primary lyricist, using literary and philosophical themes to create lyrics that were often described as profound.

Alex Lifeson: Born on August 27, 1953, in Fernie, Canada, Alex Lifeson is a guitarist and songwriter. He co-founded Rush with Geddy Lee and John Rutsey in 1968 and remained the band's only constant member throughout its history. Lifeson is known for his skillful use of effects pedals, creating complex and intricate sounds that became a signature of Rush's music. He also contributed to the band's songwriting and co-wrote many of their biggest hits.

John Rutsey: Born on July 23, 1952, in Toronto, Canada, John Rutsey was the original drummer and co-founder of Rush. He played on the band's self-titled debut album in 1974 but left the band shortly afterward due to health reasons. Rutsey was known for his straightforward and hard-hitting drumming style and contributed to the songwriting on the band's first album. He passed away on May 11, 2008, at the age of 55.

Track List for Snakes & Arrows:

1. 'Far Cry' (5:19) - The opening track, featuring a driving and fast-paced rhythm, 'Far Cry' sets the tone for the album's exploration of themes of mortality and spirituality.

2. 'Armor and Sword' (6:36) - This track features a slower, more introspective tone. It explores the relationship between power and responsibility, and questions the morality of war.

3. 'Workin' Them Angels' (4:47) - This upbeat track features a catchy chorus and examines the challenges of balancing faith and reason in a complex world.

4. 'The Larger Bowl (A Pantoum)' (4:07) - 'The Larger Bowl' is a contemplative track with a repeating structure that draws on the poetic form of the pantoum. It explores the idea that even though we may feel insignificant, our actions can have a ripple effect that can change the world.

5. 'Spindrift' (5:23) - The longest track on the album, 'Spindrift' is an instrumental piece that showcases the band's musicianship and talent. It features complex rhythms and harmonies, and builds to a powerful climax.

6. 'The Main Monkey Business' (6:01) - Another instrumental track, 'The Main Monkey Business' is a lively and upbeat piece that features catchy guitar riffs and driving rhythms.

7. 'The Way the Wind Blows' (6:28) - This track explores the idea of how easily we can be swept up in groupthink and the power of social pressure. Its powerful lyrics and infectious rhythm make it a standout on the album.

8. 'Hope' (2:02) - This short, acoustic track offers a brief pause in the album's heavier themes. It features gentle guitar and vocals and encourages listeners to find hope in difficult times.

9. 'Faithless' (5:31) - 'Faithless' confronts the darker aspects of human nature including fear and doubt. Its lyrics encourage listeners to confront their fears and try to move beyond them.

10. 'Bravest Face' (5:11) - This track explores the idea of putting on a brave face in difficult times. Its catchy melody and upbeat rhythm make it one of the album's most memorable tracks.

11. 'Good News First' (4:51) - 'Good News First' is a tongue-in-cheek track that encourages listeners to look for the good in difficult situations. Despite its humor, it still delivers a powerful message of hope and perseverance.

12. 'Malignant Narcissism' (2:17) - The shortest track on the album, 'Malignant Narcissism' is another instrumental piece that showcases the band's technical skill. Its frantic rhythm and complex time signature make it an exciting listen.

13. 'We Hold On' (4:12) - The final track on the album, 'We Hold On' encourages listeners to hold onto hope and keep striving for a better future, even when things seem impossible. Its driving rhythm and catchy chorus make it a fitting close to the album's themes of resilience and perseverance.

Discography for Rush:

Here is the complete discography of the band Rush in chronological order, including studio albums, live albums, compilation albums, EPs, singles, and other releases:

1. Rush (1974) - Studio album
2. Fly by Night (1975) - Studio album
3. Caress of Steel (1975) - Studio album
4. 2112 (1976) - Studio album
5. A Farewell to Kings (1977) - Studio album
6. Hemispheres (1978) - Studio album
7. Permanent Waves (1980) - Studio album
8. Moving Pictures (1981) - Studio album
9. Signals (1982) - Studio album
10. Grace Under Pressure (1984) - Studio album
11. Power Windows (1985) - Studio album
12. Hold Your Fire (1987) - Studio album
13. Presto (1989) - Studio album
14. Roll the Bones (1991) - Studio album
15. Counterparts (1993) - Studio album
16. Test for Echo (1996) - Studio album
17. Vapor Trails (2002) - Studio album
18. Feedback (2004) - Cover songs EP
19. Snakes & Arrows (2007) - Studio album
20. Time Machine 2011: Live in Cleveland (2011) - Live album
21. Clockwork Angels (2012) - Studio album
22. R40 Live (2015) - Live album

Singles:

1. 'Not Fade Away'/'You Can't Fight It' (1973)
2. 'In the Mood'/'Take a Friend' (1974)
3. 'Fly by Night'/'Anthem' (1975)
4. 'Making Memories'/'Bastille Day' (1975)
5. 'The Trees'/'Circumstances' (1978)
6. 'La Villa Strangiato'/'A Passage to Bangkok' (1978)
7. 'Freewill'/'Jacob's Ladder' (1980)
8. 'The Spirit of Radio'/'Circumstances' (1980)
9. 'Tom Sawyer'/'Witch Hunt' (1981)
10. 'The Analog Kid'/'Digital Man' (1982)
11. 'New World Man'/'Vital Signs' (1982)
12. 'Distant Early Warning'/'Between the Wheels' (1984)
13. 'The Big Money'/'Territories' (1985)
14. 'Time Stand Still' (featuring Aimee Mann)/'High Water' (1987)
15. 'Force Ten'/'Prime Mover' (1987)
16. 'Lock and Key'/'Mission' (1988)
17. 'Show Don't Tell'/'Superconductor' (1989)
18. 'Dreamline'/'Bravado' (1991)
19. 'Roll the Bones'/'Dreamline' (live) (1991)
20. 'Stick It Out'/'Cut to the Chase' (1993)
21. 'Nobody's Hero'/'The Pass' (1994)
22. 'Test for Echo'/'Virtuality' (1996)
23. 'One Little Victory'/'Ceiling Unlimited' (2002)

Other releases:

1. Rush Through Time (1978) - Compilation album
2. Chronicles (1990) - Compilation album
3. Retrospective I: 1974-1980 (1997) - Compilation album
4. Retrospective II: 1981-1987 (1997) - Compilation album
5. Different Stages (1998) - Live album
6. The Spirit of Radio: Greatest Hits 1974-1987 (2003) - Compilation album
7. Gold (2006) - Compilation album
8. The Studio Albums 1989-2007 (2013) - Box set