Rush: Beyond the Lighted Stage

In the midst of an illustrious career spanning over four decades, Rush stands as one of the most accomplished and enduring Canadian rock bands, boasting a dedicated fan base and unparalleled musical evolution. Rush: Beyond the Lighted Stage, a documentary film directed by Sam Dunn and Scott McFadyen, provides an in-depth look at the band's extraordinary journey, from the dawn of their early years as a progressive rock outfit in the 1970s to their current status as masters of heavy rock. The film begins in the 1960s, with a snapshot of Rush's humble beginnings as a trio comprising Geddy Lee (vocals, bass, and keyboards), Alex Lifeson (guitar), and John Rutsey, the original drummer. As one of the band's earliest influences, Jeff Soto – the drummer who eventually replaced Rutsey after his untimely death – highlights how Geddy's impressive vocal range and the band's innate ability to blend melodic progressiveness with aggressive heavy metal set them apart. As the documentary delves deeper into the band's past, Lee's distinctive vocals and the rhythmic chemistry between him and Lifeson start to take center stage. By the early 1970s, Rush was beginning to find its unique voice. Their first four albums, released in the span of three years – Rush (1974), Fly by Night (1975), Caress of Steel (1975), and 2112 (1976) – showcased a band still navigating its identity while producing some of its finest work. These early efforts demonstrate an impressive blend of classic rock, folk, and early influences by King Crimson and early Genesis. The songs from this period, such as the epic 20-minute epic '2112,' solidified Rush's progressive-rock credentials and earned them a loyal following. However, it was during this time that the trio underwent a series of lineup changes, with Neil Peart replacing John Rutsey on drums. Peart's arrival not only helped to solidify the band's distinctive sound, but also brought a new level of lyricism and storytelling to Rush's music – themes that would later become some of the band's most enduring strengths. As the band continued to evolve during the late '70s and early '80s, they encountered numerous highs and lows. Albums such as Hemispheres (1978) and Permanent Waves (1980) demonstrate the band's expanding musical versatility and mastery of intricate song structures. On the other hand, Rush's early '80s albums like Moving Pictures (1981) and Signals (1982) saw the band incorporating even more catchy pop sensibilities into their music. While this shift towards heavier riffs, as well as incorporating keyboards into their sound, was initially met with enthusiasm, not all fans felt that the band was still true to its core sound. This internal tension is reflected in the testimonials of both Lee, who acknowledges the pressure the band faced in constantly producing new music, and Lifeson. Lifeson, however, candidly voices his own personal frustration, stating how Rush's musical transformation was sometimes difficult for fans to accept and understand. Yet, with a steadfast adherence to the band's artistic vision, Rush continued to push the boundaries of their music. A significant development during this period was the band's increasing popularity, as they toured with high-profile acts and shared the stage with major rock icons. Lee shares vivid memories of Rush's performances and the energy surrounding their sold-out concerts in both Canada and the United States. The band's 1981 tour in support of Moving Pictures, as well as the 'Escape Route Tour' – their subsequent outing – cemented Rush's reputation as one of the world's premier hard rock bands, capable of consistently crafting music that left fans in awe. Beyond its exploration of Rush's musical history, the documentary delves into the band members' personal stories and experiences. Neil Peart, Geddy Lee, and Alex Lifeson reveal candid insights into their individual perspectives on life and music. Geddy Lee opens up about his childhood, and how his family supported his passion for music despite its early difficulties. Alex Lifeson reveals that his early experiences traveling the world and performing with Rush allowed him to appreciate the beauty of his surroundings. In a poignant tribute to Rush's late road manager, Tim Maloney, who served as the band's backbone and confidant for many years, the documentary touches upon Maloney's unwavering loyalty and unshakeable enthusiasm that helped fuel the band's growth. Through an array of photographs and home movies gathered from the band's archives, Beyond the Lighted Stage showcases not only the highs and lows of Rush's impressive history but also offers a glimpse into the relationships and people that formed the heart of the band. In its final act, Rush: Beyond the Lighted Stage captures the band's unwavering dedication to their music and its enduring legacy. With Rush's subsequent lineup shake-ups during the late '80s and '90s, including drummer Neil Peart's untimely passing, and subsequent band hiatus, the documentary offers a testament to the band's resilience in the face of adversity. As a fitting conclusion, Geddy Lee's impassioned speech while performing on stage – emphasizing the importance of preserving their music legacy for the younger generations – leaves the audience with a powerful sense of urgency and hope. In the end, Beyond the Lighted Stage, is a film that celebrates the timeless artistry of Rush while highlighting their enduring spirit and their ability to evolve as a musical force that will continue to captivate fans for years to come.