I've watched the footage, and Anika is doing a fine job. Not only is she technically competent, but she getting in the groove with the band. Most of all they're ball having fun. That's where the real energy is. She's a wonderful choice to pick up the baton.
Not so surprised: Peart was basically alone circa 1980, but musicianship levels have been rising ever since, especially among drummers. These days, many bands' most musical member is the drummer. Peart would still stand at the top of that class, but he would have a lot more company
Even with my favorite bands, I am always critical (frequently too critical) when new music is released or changes occur in the band. “They couldn’t possibly create anything that is better than…” I know. And I can hear the “you’re not a real fan then” response. I get it. And I’m usually always wrong to have that initial thinking. But I’ll admit when I heard that Rush was going on tour, I very much had my usual skeptical thoughts, and perhaps, given the circumstances, I would have justification.
Having said all that, I want to thank for your work here. It brings me significant joy to hear that Peart’s legacy lives on with the passing of the baton. All this machinery, making modern music….once again.
I've watched the footage, and Anika is doing a fine job. Not only is she technically competent, but she getting in the groove with the band. Most of all they're ball having fun. That's where the real energy is. She's a wonderful choice to pick up the baton.
i’m still suspect of the whole notion here, kinda like replacing bonham
but maybe they did it?
still a traditionalist i guess lol
Not "replacing". The baton passed to the next worthy hand.
well said
Shit, she is phenomenal!
Not so surprised: Peart was basically alone circa 1980, but musicianship levels have been rising ever since, especially among drummers. These days, many bands' most musical member is the drummer. Peart would still stand at the top of that class, but he would have a lot more company
Excellent! Glad they are still “Today's Tom Sawyer"!
Even with my favorite bands, I am always critical (frequently too critical) when new music is released or changes occur in the band. “They couldn’t possibly create anything that is better than…” I know. And I can hear the “you’re not a real fan then” response. I get it. And I’m usually always wrong to have that initial thinking. But I’ll admit when I heard that Rush was going on tour, I very much had my usual skeptical thoughts, and perhaps, given the circumstances, I would have justification.
Having said all that, I want to thank for your work here. It brings me significant joy to hear that Peart’s legacy lives on with the passing of the baton. All this machinery, making modern music….once again.
Thank-you to everyone who has commented on this article. I appreciate you taking the time to read it and leave your thoughts. Best, Dave
What this is that this reunion is about joy and the love of rock music. Makes people have something positive to look forward.
See you guys at MSG
Anika Niles great fill-in for Neil Pert. She is super amazing
$500 tickets.
Each. Leaves me out.
Hi David,
Great post! Could not agree more.
I’m hopeful that this tour might mean new music from Rush afterwards too. Of course, they’ll have to find a lyricist… who knows!
I was at the Thursday night show and posted my thoughts and some photos already.