Time marches by so fast. It was just last October-2025 I mused about this tour. I’m barely older than band called Rush. I’ve listened to their music with greater interest as I have aged. This magnificent counterpoint and thoughtful lyrics provided by a very progressive, and technically proficient trio of musicians from Canada has always impressed me. The tour has begun, and it has been an event. My social media feeds are full of posts about Rush. I love it.

When Anika Nillson was named as drummer for the new tour I knew we were all anticipating something extraordinary or at worst disappointing. It is hard to fill the drum chair of the late Neil Peart. He was the professor, the glue, the genius behind a lot of their music. This is of no disrespect to Geddy or Alex. Peart strengthened their triangle in numerous ways. His rhythmic counterpoint was melodic, spiritual, and complimentary to the musicianship of his band mates. Peart’s lyrics were always colored, shaped, and framed by the band musically. This spirited progressive form of music making likens them to classical music masters. With a new drummer, how would this change the chemistry, the soul, or essence of Rush?

Anika picked up the torch from Neil and has carried it forward. She has captured the soul of Rush and honored the music far more than I expected. She compliments Alex and Geddy. These men are having fun, and once more the music of Rush lives again in arenas after an eleven year absence. When Neil passed away in 2020 I thought this music had died, except for our studio and live recordings. Hearing the music live again in this context was joyful. Anika’s technique and delivery does not mimic Neil Peart it honors him as she puts a new voice into the history of the music.

The live show from Los Angeles that I watched via You Tube was excellent. The only negative is Geddy’s voice. When you are 70+ years of age it is difficult to sing parts from 50 years ago. I know things will get better as the tour progresses. When you don’t practice consistently the physical ability disappears. As a music teacher, I am all too familiar with this process. My voice also struggles with what I could sing 20 years ago. Geddy managed admirably through the show. He took some parts down to accommodate the challenges. I know his consummate professionalism will work to improve that product of the music.

The greatest fun were the interactions of the guys with Anika. I enjoy the musical connection I was seeing. The interactions were organic. It is not common to see artists turn their backs to the crowd, but seeing them both face Anika during songs was awesome. On some of the sideview you could see the smiles and other non-verbal expressions between the three of them. This special opening night revealed what a great choice they made.

During the show the band paid tribute to their fallen friend. Hearing Neil speak about his drumming and his music was very spiritual. “Drumming is like a well packed suitcase or toolbox ready for a journey somewhere exciting.” (paraphrase) You could feel the honor and blessings carried forth. Neil was in the room with all of them. His energy was being produced through the very music that was being played. I wish I could have been there in person. It is going to be a beautiful tour for Rush.

Anika Nillson has won the internet, and she has won the hearts of Rush fans worldwide with her performance and her grace as she adds her voice to the spirit of the Rush journey. I wish the whole band success on this tour. I look forward to the continued social media presence of Rush on my feed. I love hearing this music live again in performance. As always… …so the music goes…