By Francesc Borrull · August 26, 2024

As a lifelong fan of Rush, my love for the band runs deep. Over the years, I’ve meticulously collected every one of their records, cherishing each album as a piece of rock history. But it’s their live performances that truly capture my heart. I’ve spent countless hours watching their DVDs and Blu-rays, marveling at the energy and precision of Geddy, Alex, and Neil as they perform on stage. Interestingly, despite my obsession, I’ve never had the chance to see them live in person. Funny, right? It’s a bit ironic, given how much joy their live recordings bring me. But even from the comfort of my living room, I can feel the magic of their performances.

This post is dedicated to Rush’s eight instrumental studio tracks—the only eight they ever released. Despite their small number, these tracks are of incredible quality, showcasing the band’s unparalleled musicianship and creativity.

1. “La Villa Strangiato” – Hemispheres (1978)

“La Villa Strangiato” is often hailed as one of Rush’s greatest achievements. This 9-minute epic is divided into multiple sections, each telling its own part of a bizarre, dream-like story. The track is a showcase of Alex Lifeson’s guitar work, with a stunning solo that has become legendary among fans and guitarists alike. The song’s shifting tempos and intricate arrangements make it a true progressive rock masterpiece.

2. “YYZ” – Moving Pictures (1981)

Arguably one of Rush’s most iconic instrumentals, and most likely my favorite track from the band, “YYZ” is a masterclass in rhythmic complexity and musical interplay. Named after the airport code for Toronto Pearson International Airport, the track opens with a distinctive Morse code rhythm that sets the tone for the entire piece. With Geddy Lee’s bass taking a prominent role, the song features intricate time signatures and an exhilarating interplay between all three members. It’s a rollercoaster of a track that leaves listeners in awe of the band’s technical prowess.

3. “Where’s My Thing? (Part IV, ‘Gangster of Boats’ Trilogy)” – Roll the Bones (1991)

With a funky, upbeat vibe, “Where’s My Thing?” is a departure from Rush’s more complex compositions. This track is driven by Geddy Lee’s bass and Neil Peart’s dynamic drumming. The playful, groovy nature of the song contrasts with the band’s more serious works, showcasing their ability to infuse fun and humor into their music. It’s a track that’s guaranteed to get your foot tapping.

4. “Leave That Thing Alone” – Counterparts (1993)

Continuing the groove-oriented approach, “Leave That Thing Alone” features a tight, locked-in rhythm section that propels the song forward. The track is layered with atmospheric guitar textures from Lifeson, creating a moody, immersive experience. This is probably the hidden gem of the bunch—one of those songs that are so underappreciated, it’s hard to believe! It’s a testament to Rush’s ability to blend technical proficiency with emotion, making it a standout track on Counterparts.

5. “Limbo” – Test for Echo (1996)

“Limbo” is an underrated gem in Rush’s catalog. The track’s eerie, almost haunting atmosphere is created through the use of synthesizers and Lifeson’s ethereal guitar work. Peart’s drumming is particularly notable here, with intricate patterns that keep the listener on their toes. The song has a mysterious, otherworldly quality that makes it a unique entry in Rush’s instrumental repertoire.

6. “The Main Monkey Business” – Snakes & Arrows (2007)

“The Main Monkey Business” is a complex, multi-layered track that showcases Rush’s continued evolution as musicians. With intricate time changes and a blend of acoustic and electric elements, this song is a journey through different moods and textures. Geddy’s bass playing is particularly impressive here, weaving in and out of the dense musical landscape created by Lifeson and Peart.

7. “Hope” – Snakes & Arrows (2007)

A beautiful acoustic piece, “Hope” is a stark contrast to the more elaborate compositions on this list. Alex Lifeson takes center stage with his 12-string guitar, delivering a performance that is both heartfelt and introspective. The simplicity of the track is what makes it so powerful, allowing the listener to fully appreciate Lifeson’s skill and emotion.

8. “Malignant Narcissism” – Snakes & Arrows (2007)

“Malignant Narcissism” is a short, punchy track that packs a lot of energy into its brief runtime. The song features aggressive bass lines from Geddy Lee and tight, intricate drumming from Neil Peart. It’s a high-octane piece that leaves a lasting impression, proving that even in their later years, Rush could still deliver powerful, energetic performances.

Conclusion

Rush’s eight instrumental tracks are a testament to the band’s incredible musicianship and creativity. Each song offers a unique glimpse into their evolving sound and showcases the individual talents of Geddy Lee, Alex Lifeson, and Neil Peart. If you haven’t already, I highly recommend giving these tracks a listen (here). They represent some of the best work from one of rock’s greatest bands, and they just might make you a lifelong Rush fan like me.

© Francesc Borrull, 2024