Experiencing Rush: A Listener’s Companion

From Rush’s self-titled debut album in 1974 to 2012’s Clockwork Angels, this work covers the recording career, music, and, less extensively, the personal lives of the progressive rock band. After a time line outlining key points in the band’s existence, Bowman’s introduction notes that Rush deserves such extensive focus because of the musicianship, professionalism, and willingness to experiment that have garnered the band a cultlike fan base from its native Canada and the U.S. to many other countries. While there is some biography in this band history, for the most part Bowman focuses on the band’s music as he analyzes each album, including lyrics, time signatures, key and chord choices, themes, and cover art. Though music notation may help readers understand Bowman’s explanations, those without musical backgrounds might find his analysis too intricate. But true Rush fans will revel in the author’s complex descriptions; for instance, he notes that from 1980’s Permanent Waves to Roll the Bones in 1991, the band’s lyrics evolved “from vaguely Randian atheistic individualism to vaguely left-wing agnostic liberalism.” It’s fitting that Bowman finishes with how Rush, after years of being ignored, was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame thanks to its fans. (Nov.)