Archive for July 22nd, 2008

Another Hot Night in Charlotte

It’s been just over a year since Rush came sweeping through these parts and just like last time I took my place amongst a hot and sweaty crowd to be dazzled by their on stage presence and bowel shaking sound. Although not center stage, the seats were up close and personal and in direct line of a massive bank of speakers. With each power chord, baseline and drum beat I felt it all the way through me.

As the sun began to set the stage lights came up and this Trio I have been familiar with since my last vestiges of high school took to the stage and belted out some of their greatest material. You would think after 30 years they would be bored of it all, but they played with a smile on their faces and a spring in their step. There are certainly more caricatures strewn about the stage and dryers have been replaced with rotisseries this time around. And there is certainly more odd videos and comedy sketches to go around.

And it was the same thrill as the other shows of the craftsmanship and antics of my favorite band, all these years later. Even with change some things remain the same. When the first few chords of Tom Sawyer or 2112 wash over the crowd they come alive with pumping fists and shrieks of excitement. Air base, air drum and air guitar play right along with every note.

A great night in every respect and a rare chance to spend a few hours with old friends.