I think you’re ready for the more advanced Rush brother. “Xanadu” should be next. The studio version is great, but the 1981 live video from their live album “Exit Stage Left” is killer. Just as good as the studio and you get to see their skill, performance and showmanship.
During the show, Lee introduced the Permanent Waves track "Jacob's Ladder" as "a song we've never played live." "Ged is never wrong," says his brother - but in this case he was, flagrantly so: Not only had Rush played the song, as fans instantly pointed out online, it's on a live LP, 1981's Exit . . . Stage Left. Lee can't quite believe he made this flub; perched on a couch, he begins looking up Rush trivia on his phone. "I fucked up," he says, eventually. "I have no memory of ever playing 'Jacob's Ladder.' " - Geddy Lee, after the opening night of the R40 Tour
I think what separates Rush from many others is their ability to play in odd time signatures with incredible musicianship and yet make it accessible to the average listener.
Neil’s precision in attack & timing was second to none, he set a new standard which inspired the next generation of drummers. never apologise for picking up your bass man - take those Rush riffs to the church !
Church Boy Jacob's Ladder is a reference from the Bible's Old Testament, Genesis 28:10-22. Jacob has a dream about a stairway resting on the earth with its top reaching to heaven, and the angels of God ascending and descending on it. Neil Peart (Rush Backstage Club newsletter, December 1985): "This song simply describes the phenomenon of the sun breaking through the clouds in visible rays, as it sometimes does after a rain or on a cloudy day. The actual name seems to be one of those traditional names for natural things which has probably been around for ages. I think Geddy actually suggested the idea to me, after hearing his mother-in-law use the name. It had a nice sound to it, and of course the event itself is a beautiful and inspiring one.
You're definetly starting to understand Neil's geinus. He approached each piece as a composer does; everything is planned and has a purpose. Furthermore, you get development in a Rush song - parts that are repeated are varried and progress throughout the piece. The amount of tension and release that Neil can create just by where he places the beat is amazing. There's parts of this song that may seem repetetive to the casual listener, but man, the stuff Neil is doing is hypnotizing. He really is the star of this song. I love it when musicians can paint such a vivid picture with just the music. Cheers!
Church Boy, As a Rush fan for 45 years, I'm thoroughly enjoying watching & listening to you discover and digest the music created by Rush! Your ability to appreciate the musical contributions of each band member is rare and amazing. Your musical interpretation and desription of each song is spot on. I especially love your interpretatuons of what Neil Peart is playing. Most people don't understand it, but you as a bass player are best suited to be in tune with the rhythm, syncopation, and other percussive nuances that Peart composed and played. I'm really appreciating your developing love for Rush. It's refreshing. Respectfully, Loren Nichols "PK" PK = Preacher's Kid😂
After literally decades of resistance, the band finally resurrected this song for their final tour in 2015. As one who had seen them 49 times from age 12 (1982) through the final tour in 2015 (at 45), I never missed a tour through those years. They never played this song until my last show. It was most moving and appreciated..
The thing that made Rush great was that they never rested on their laurels. They could easily have done so, but no, they kept striving to make things interesting and different. They changed their sound more than a few times, and it only endeared us to them. Thanks for 40 great years of music, guys.
Next time you're driving down a highway during a thunderstorm, and after the rain has stopped and the beams of sunlight start to break through the overcast and shine beams of light on the earth, put this song on in your car and crank it up loud! To me, doing that makes the song even better. Another great song from Rush which briefly mentions weather is "The Analog Kid": "A hot and windy August afternoon has the trees in constant motion. With a flash of silver leaves, as they're rocking in the breeze".
Neil's most syncopated drum part in the middle of this song, but it still flows in pure Neil Peart fashion. Used to love playing this song on drums way back when I was cutting my teeth on the entire Rush catalog. lol
Only Rush would create a song about a thunderstorm! Neil Peart who was the main lyrist loved nature and spent time exploring it. Another song about an earthly event Earthshine live in Rio It may not be on the "best list but I really like it. I also like to recommend Dinner with Rush You will see why they stayed together for so long. A great brotherhood between them. Cheers
The Doors - Riders on the Storm Garth Brooks - Thunder Road AC/DC - Thunderstruck Chi Coltrane - Thunder and Lighting Eddie Rabbit - I Love a Rainy Night CCR - Have You Ever Seen the Rain
The key to the ultimate appreacheation of Rush only comes after hearing their songs multiple times. So that you know what's coming and not always just being surprised. Like it their early days, we would run down to pick up their new release. Usually, the first time through pick for listening, the best was usually last. I hope you understand
You mentioned Neil Peart's drumming, which is flawless and innovative (generally and for its time in the late 70s). However, his percussion work does not always get the recognition it deserves: He plays timpani, triangle, wind chimes, and tubular bells in this piece. Also less recognized is how hard Neil worked to make sure what he played highlighted Lee's and Lifeson's performances for the betterment of the song. So, as an example, the offbeats on the chyna towards the end of the song beautifully drive and accentuate the guitar as it escalates towards the end of the song. As you noted at the end, Rush is very "intentional" about the music they create - it's no accident we're discussing their songs so long after they were released.
Another song you may like that's based on an atmospheric phenomenon is Chain Lightning from Presto, which was inspired by Neil's experience of watching a meteor shower with his daughter; I previously mentioned Geddy's use of a Wal bass on the Presto album, which you said you like, so I'd like you to hear how it sounds here. Cheers from Toronto! 🎤 🎹 🎸 🥁 🎸 🐐 🐐 🐐
You do a great job reacting to Rush. I’m so sorry you had to suffer through this song. Your facial expression in the thumbnail NAILED it regarding this song. Here, let me help, because Rush fans will keep recommending LOWER quality Rush songs Malignant Narcissism Where’s my Thing Live
The garden from the Clockwork angels tour is one of their most beautiful performance, give it a try! It's the last song of their last album and the message is beautiful. And if you like Neil drummind you have to give a take at his drum solo live in Frankfurt. He's not just played a solo, he composed a solo... from tribal percussion style to military marching to jazz ... great display of limb independance where different part of his boby can perform on different time signature... that is something to see!
They way Neil dances around that 6/8-7/8 closing section while Geddy is still playing that slow minimal moog motif underneath ...thats just nuts...One of my favorite Rush moments.
You will love Digital Man for great bass lines and drum fills (even if it is not on the "greatest" list). I'll keep making this suggestion, you can't hold out forever. Always look forward to your reactions!
You should always do Rush live unless you're wanting to read the lyrics. Watch them play this live 2015. Makes this song so different. You can see geddy do bass and synth at same time.live is best.😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😮
This is a thunderstorm song, par excellence. I grew up in Kansas back in the day when Super-Cell storms would roll in and drop tornadoes. THIS is the ONLY song about Mother Nature and her viscious storms that calmly roll in and grow into a battlefield scene of tremendous forces that can destroy most anything in its path. And then... it slowly sulks away into a peaceful evening sunset.
what you said at the end about bringing it to the listener, is spot on. that’s why on all of their albums they strategically place a song in there to be played on the radio… that everyone liked. but then you sit at home and listen to the whole album and realize “ that’s the worst song on the whole album”! amazing. they hook you n and then we’re watching reaction videos where someone is hearing it for the first time and it takes you back to when you first discovered RUSH. great reactions. keep it up. i’m a fellow bass player also and i love that you play what you hear in these songs. great job.
Oftentimes for these earlier, longer songs with odd time signatures, the band would play the same chord progression for each set of bars, say 7/4 + 7/4 = 14 beats, but then they would subtly change the feel, or the rhythm, or Neil would add an extra hit or two, or something with each “go around”. This song is one of the prime examples of this.
Jacob's Ladder is in my top 5 favorite Rush songs. Neil was genius. I had the amazing experience to see Rush perform live 5 times. More songs to add to your list. Far Cry, Red Barchetta, Witch Hunt, Mission, Bravado, Neil's Drum solo in Frankfurt Germany. Main Monkey Business Live (Instrumental) Earthshine.
As a drummer myself I was a huge fan of Neil, so as I heard in an interview , in the last part of this piece,he was actually following Alex guitar in that off rhythm at the end of this song. R.I.P Neil.
My friend you and I may see this world in different perspectives and is ok yet on this journey of togetherness through music where we are on the same plane Rush accomplish the golden rule of all humanity to be kind. If I may sum it up in five words...open heart open mind always. As a drummer I am seeing what your saying and understand when I play I am actually talking as music is the universal language, meant to converse with all.to bring us together to love one another. Love Brother.
For a church guy, I'm surprised you didn't catch on by the title. Jacob's ladder is a biblical reference from the book of genesis. It's the ladder that leads to heaven, that can be seen when streams of light (The ladders) break through the clouds after a rain storm. This song was supposed to be an instrumental painting that very picture of those bright unbroken beams made their way thought the clouds, but the band decided to add lyrics to make that image more obvious... I thought the music was sufficient in painting that picture but I do love the addition of those simple but poetic lyrics.
What you said is exactly why love Rush. Every time an album came out, people would try to compare it to their older work. But I always said they do something unique on every album. I always wanted to hear what they were going to do next!
Liked as soon as I saw the stank face. 😫 I’m always hard-pressed to name a “favorite” Rush song, but this one is always part of the discussion. So crunchy and evocative…you can literally SEE the storm clouds building, then parting, and rays of light beaming through. Pure poetry!
Awesome song(and reaction!), even though Rush never again played it live after Moving Pictures Tour (per Exit Stage Live recording in '81) ,so this one was a treat when we got to see it performed on their final tour, R40. It’s hauntingly beautiful and draws thematically at least from the Biblical account in Genesis, where Jacob wrestles the angel (or God as it’s sometimes interpreted). Neil Peart weaves and or boils this story down to human fascination, and or the awe-reverence that we experience during natural phenomena, and so it takes a secular exit from the Biblical account. The music though is heavenly, mysterious and inspiring, and to that extend pays homage to the mystery of Jacob’s Ladder; and can't say enough about his choice drum work on this: rock, marching band, and classical all in one! For those who would like to understand the roots and archeological setting of this song (as I'm once again more than certain NEP read the Biblical account and drew inspiration from it), you can watch this archaeologist explain it here. Absolutely fascinating: m.czcams.com/video/3qlfi6doRJI/video.html
Rush actually never played this song on the Moving Pictures tour. The live rendition you hear on Exit Stage Left was recorded a year earlier in 1980 on the Permanent Waves tour during their visit to the UK along with Closer To The Heart, Beneath Between Behind, and Passage To Bangkok.
@rattan3793, you’re absolutely correct sir; pardon the late night slip! That is a fact I was well aware of but alas, time has a way of making us “lose it” (pun intended!) as we grow older.
Sir it seems like you're not used to alternating time signatures. I believe the beginning shifts from 5/4 to 6/4. When you played the first riff you were doing straight 5 and not shifting to the 6/4 measure directly after it. It gives the piece that 11 feel
I love this song and the live version from the R40 tour is an amazing experience, as well. I love the dark, moody feel of this song, and I also like watching them bring this to life in a live setting.
This is in my top 10 of favorite Rush songs. It reminds me so much of classical music that I usually refer to it as a "composition". From beginning to end, it's sublime. Understated, smooth, airy, bold, and then finally building to a dramatic conclusion. What a great piece.
I think I could see your brain working as you listened to this, especially later on. Almost a visual representation of what I like to think of as some nerdy rock! Great stuff.
Loving your channel, Sir! I think you would really enjoy the live in Dallas version of "Where's My Thing?" Opens up with a nasty bass solo and has a drum solo about mid way. Enjoy!
The A flat to E gives it a more haunting effect. This album was recorded and finished before the end of 1979. They were so ahead of their time. You should check out Neal’s Buddy Rich tribute. 🏄♂️
Love Neil's drum part composition on this track. Every time they repeat the riff he adds something new and different. Geddy also sprinkles in some changes. The Alex solo at the beginning is a favorite of mine. Great comments and analysis as usual. Thanks for choosing this Often overlooked track from Permanent Waves. The lyrics are fairly straightforward in this song. I am sure you will pick them up on a subsequent listen. I love how the music brings a mental picture of a storm forming, building reaching its climax and breaking, leaving behind "Jacobs Ladder" and a feeling of awe, as sunlight breaks through the clouds. I am very much enjoying your Journey through the Rush catalogue. This is a band you can really take your time with and love.
I am loving your Rush journey. They were my first concert ever (Signals tour) and no one ever quite stacked up to them. Neil Peart made me actually listen to the drums and appreciate the rhythm section.
Rush's live performances were always spectacular. Seeing them play this, with the accompanying light show and back screen is epic. Unlike any other band, Rush would touch your spirit and soul with this combination, triggering an emotional connection.
I've become a huge fan of this channel over the last few weeks. It's a pleasure seeing your excitement discovering the greatness of Rush. As a bass player you MUST react to Digital Man. It's one of Geddy's finest moments.
As others have stated, Xanadu from Exit...Stage Left is a must. There are a bevy of other songs that I think would hit you in the ' bass player feels', The Big Money -Live from A Show of Hands, Turn the Page, Headlong Flight, Show Don't Tell, Double Agent, and By Tor and the Snow Dog.
Yeah, Neil crushes this. This was the song that taught me instead of switching back and forth btwn time signatures (eg the 5/4, 6/4 opening) and just add them together and make a string of 11s! Great reaction! You have a great ear. 🥁🤘
Rush are absolute musical geniuses. The things you notice and like about them make me think you would like Tool. I really think you should check them out. Start with The Pot and see what you think 😊
Others have already mentioned, but you really do have a great ear. I very much enjoy seeing and hearing people enjoy Rush, but I especially enjoy those who can appreciate the artistry of their music.
Note: That the track is _sonically_ and conceptually about a "Thunderhead" (Cumulonimbus cloud) as it forms and as it dissipates, but Neil Peart uses the Biblical reference for the sun beams (Crepuscular rays) and the "vision" of Jacob . . . "And Jacob went out from Beer-sheba, and went toward Haran. And he lighted upon the place, and tarried there all night, because the sun was set; and he took one of the stones of the place, and put it under his head, and lay down in that place to sleep. And he dreamed, and behold a ladder set up on the earth, and the top of it reached to heaven; and behold the angels of God ascending and descending on it". *- Genesis 28:10-19*
hey... I just now had your channel with your reaction to Marathon Man and I was so impressed with your reaction because your a musician and loved how you analyzed the song and here I am on this second with Jacobs' Ladder. You know your music no doubt and so appreciate this band. Not only is Neil an incredibly gifted drummer who has worked hard fine tuning with drum playing and I'm sure by now you know he writes most of the lyrics and the other 2 along with Neil compose their extraordinary music. Rush alone with the Beatles and CSNY are my top 3 however I been here now for 7 decades plus and I have come across so many gifted musicians and their awesome music. List would be long! I see on the bar you have reacted to many Rush songs, however unless I missed it doesn't seem you reacted to 2112. If you havent' yet and you plan to, hold on to your hat! 2112 was the very first song I heard and it took me to the stratosphere. I was stunned and left dumbfounded with what I heard with it. Check it out if you havent yet Peace out
Great work, CB. It's great to watch a first reaction channel from someone who not only appreciates the music, but understands the musicianship instantly.
This is prog-rock's version of Richard Strauss' An Alpine Symphony tone poem. I think their live versions of Jacob's Ladder are performed better than the studio version.
Another excellent reaction. Please please please do Vital Signs. The bass line is ridiculous. I can’t believe he songs and plays this at the same time!!!! My wife and I love Tye Tribbett too! That was a fun reference!
I think you’re ready for the more advanced Rush brother. “Xanadu” should be next. The studio version is great, but the 1981 live video from their live album “Exit Stage Left” is killer. Just as good as the studio and you get to see their skill, performance and showmanship.
He did Xanadu, official video version, a month ago. 😀
He's gotta react to the Xanadu '81 live video. We'll wait for it. Perhaps, at a later date.🎶🤩
@@williamdemerchant7295Mas foi exatamente o que ele fez!
I co-sign this
The exit stage left version is WAAAY better than the album. The push and pull of the timing is so natural.... Long live RUSH
During the show, Lee introduced the Permanent Waves track "Jacob's Ladder" as "a song we've never played live." "Ged is never wrong," says his brother - but in this case he was, flagrantly so: Not only had Rush played the song, as fans instantly pointed out online, it's on a live LP, 1981's Exit . . . Stage Left. Lee can't quite believe he made this flub; perched on a couch, he begins looking up Rush trivia on his phone. "I fucked up," he says, eventually. "I have no memory of ever playing 'Jacob's Ladder.' " - Geddy Lee, after the opening night of the R40 Tour
The only band that ever made me SEE a storm roll in, break, and then roll out ... spectacular musicians, with amazing imaginations.
I think what separates Rush from many others is their ability to play in odd time signatures with incredible musicianship and yet make it accessible to the average listener.
Neil’s precision in attack & timing was second to none, he set a new standard which inspired the next generation of drummers.
never apologise for picking up your bass man - take those Rush riffs to the church !
It's intended to be " dischordant" ,that's why they aren't using regular progrssions.
Church Boy
Jacob's Ladder is a reference from the Bible's Old Testament, Genesis 28:10-22. Jacob has a dream about a stairway resting on the earth with its top reaching to heaven, and the angels of God ascending and descending on it.
Neil Peart (Rush Backstage Club newsletter, December 1985): "This song simply describes the phenomenon of the sun breaking through the clouds in visible rays, as it sometimes does after a rain or on a cloudy day. The actual name seems to be one of those traditional names for natural things which has probably been around for ages. I think Geddy actually suggested the idea to me, after hearing his mother-in-law use the name. It had a nice sound to it, and of course the event itself is a beautiful and inspiring one.
You're definetly starting to understand Neil's geinus. He approached each piece as a composer does; everything is planned and has a purpose. Furthermore, you get development in a Rush song - parts that are repeated are varried and progress throughout the piece. The amount of tension and release that Neil can create just by where he places the beat is amazing. There's parts of this song that may seem repetetive to the casual listener, but man, the stuff Neil is doing is hypnotizing. He really is the star of this song. I love it when musicians can paint such a vivid picture with just the music. Cheers!
Love this comment!! You nailed it 👍
@@michelleisaacson6069 it’s one of the reasons I love it when a musician discovers Rush.
Anything off of Permanent Waves is pure gold
Neil is the space between the spaces. He’s so special, never repeats an identical fill. always creative.
Church Boy,
As a Rush fan for 45 years, I'm thoroughly enjoying watching & listening to you discover and digest the music created by Rush!
Your ability to appreciate the musical contributions of each band member is rare and amazing.
Your musical interpretation and desription of each song is spot on.
I especially love your interpretatuons of what Neil Peart is playing. Most people don't understand it, but you as a bass player are best suited to be in tune with the rhythm, syncopation, and other percussive nuances that Peart composed and played.
I'm really appreciating your developing love for Rush.
It's refreshing.
Respectfully,
Loren Nichols "PK"
PK = Preacher's Kid😂
After literally decades of resistance, the band finally resurrected this song for their final tour in 2015. As one who had seen them 49 times from age 12 (1982) through the final tour in 2015 (at 45), I never missed a tour through those years. They never played this song until my last show. It was most moving and appreciated..
Was just about to post the same thing! Seeing this played live with the lasers, my hubby and son was a highlight of my life. ✌️
This song is a great companion piece with Natural Science.🔥
The thing that made Rush great was that they never rested on their laurels. They could easily have done so, but no, they kept striving to make things interesting and different. They changed their sound more than a few times, and it only endeared us to them. Thanks for 40 great years of music, guys.
Next time you're driving down a highway during a thunderstorm, and after the rain has stopped and the beams of sunlight start to break through the overcast and shine beams of light on the earth, put this song on in your car and crank it up loud! To me, doing that makes the song even better. Another great song from Rush which briefly mentions weather is "The Analog Kid": "A hot and windy August afternoon has the trees in constant motion. With a flash of silver leaves, as they're rocking in the breeze".
When I saw them on the vapor trails tour at the beach in NY there was a thunderstorm during I forget what song and it was amazing just bliss
He's hitting the good tracks the others miss
This song is best played while a Thunderstorm is happening. 🌧🌩🌧
The best Rock song ever about a random meteorological phenomenon. 😊
Neil's most syncopated drum part in the middle of this song, but it still flows in pure Neil Peart fashion. Used to love playing this song on drums way back when I was cutting my teeth on the entire Rush catalog. lol
Only Rush would create a song about a thunderstorm!
Neil Peart who was the main lyrist loved nature and spent time exploring it.
Another song about an earthly event Earthshine live in Rio
It may not be on the "best list but I really like it.
I also like to recommend
Dinner with Rush
You will see why they stayed together for so long.
A great brotherhood between them.
Cheers
The Doors - Riders on the Storm
Garth Brooks - Thunder Road
AC/DC - Thunderstruck
Chi Coltrane - Thunder and Lighting
Eddie Rabbit - I Love a Rainy Night
CCR - Have You Ever Seen the Rain
The key to the ultimate appreacheation of Rush only comes after hearing their songs multiple times. So that you know what's coming and not always just being surprised. Like it their early days, we would run down to pick up their new release. Usually, the first time through pick for listening, the best was usually last. I hope you understand
You mentioned Neil Peart's drumming, which is flawless and innovative (generally and for its time in the late 70s). However, his percussion work does not always get the recognition it deserves: He plays timpani, triangle, wind chimes, and tubular bells in this piece. Also less recognized is how hard Neil worked to make sure what he played highlighted Lee's and Lifeson's performances for the betterment of the song. So, as an example, the offbeats on the chyna towards the end of the song beautifully drive and accentuate the guitar as it escalates towards the end of the song. As you noted at the end, Rush is very "intentional" about the music they create - it's no accident we're discussing their songs so long after they were released.
Another song you may like that's based on an atmospheric phenomenon is Chain Lightning from Presto, which was inspired by Neil's experience of watching a meteor shower with his daughter; I previously mentioned Geddy's use of a Wal bass on the Presto album, which you said you like, so I'd like you to hear how it sounds here. Cheers from Toronto!
🎤 🎹 🎸 🥁 🎸 🐐 🐐 🐐
Hearing a musician’s breakdown of songs I’ve listened to since childhood is pure bliss!
Thank you, Sir!
You do a great job reacting to Rush. I’m so sorry you had to suffer through this song. Your facial expression in the thumbnail NAILED it regarding this song. Here, let me help, because Rush fans will keep recommending LOWER quality Rush songs
Malignant Narcissism
Where’s my Thing Live
The garden from the Clockwork angels tour is one of their most beautiful performance, give it a try! It's the last song of their last album and the message is beautiful. And if you like Neil drummind you have to give a take at his drum solo live in Frankfurt. He's not just played a solo, he composed a solo... from tribal percussion style to military marching to jazz ... great display of limb independance where different part of his boby can perform on different time signature... that is something to see!
They way Neil dances around that 6/8-7/8 closing section while Geddy is still playing that slow minimal moog motif underneath ...thats just
nuts...One of my favorite Rush moments.
You will love Digital Man for great bass lines and drum fills (even if it is not on the "greatest" list). I'll keep making this suggestion, you can't hold out forever. Always look forward to your reactions!
You should definitely check out digital man, but I would do both the studio and the Snakes and Arrows live as they changed the arrangement a bit.
Yes and Show Don’t Tell.
You should always do Rush live unless you're wanting to read the lyrics. Watch them play this live 2015. Makes this song so different. You can see geddy do bass and synth at same time.live is best.😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😮
Prog Rock Wizardry they use 5/4, 6/4, 6/8, 7/8 time signatures in this one tune. Great reaction and review
This is a thunderstorm song, par excellence.
I grew up in Kansas back in the day when Super-Cell storms would roll in and drop tornadoes. THIS is the ONLY song about Mother Nature and her viscious storms that calmly roll in and grow into a battlefield scene of tremendous forces that can destroy most anything in its path. And then... it slowly sulks away into a peaceful evening sunset.
To see them in action a must is as many have already said "Xanadu, live Exit stage left"!
This man is my Curtis Loew. Just want to sit and learn , shame i'm 56.He can FEEL it.
Carry on Sir, please
You love Neil so much...can't wait until you get around to his solo in Frankfurt. Peace.
Neil is the heart beat of every song.
what you said at the end about bringing it to the listener, is spot on. that’s why on all of their albums they strategically place a song in there to be played on the radio… that everyone liked. but then you sit at home and listen to the whole album and realize “ that’s the worst song on the whole album”! amazing. they hook you n and then we’re watching reaction videos where someone is hearing it for the first time and it takes you back to when you first discovered RUSH. great reactions. keep it up. i’m a fellow bass player also and i love that you play what you hear in these songs. great job.
Do yourself a favor and watch Jacob's Ladder live in 4K. You it's pretty insane watching them in that.
Yes. His off beat drum play in the final verse is brilliant and so soothing. Timing, Timing and yes Timing. Keep going church boy.
Rush are the top of the heap! Never a bad album, just great albums and even greater albums.
Oftentimes for these earlier, longer songs with odd time signatures, the band would play the same chord progression for each set of bars, say 7/4 + 7/4 = 14 beats, but then they would subtly change the feel, or the rhythm, or Neil would add an extra hit or two, or something with each “go around”. This song is one of the prime examples of this.
Was lucky enough to experience Rush live several times in the late 70s/early 80s - Sureal, and has never been matched.
God bless
Jacob's Ladder is in my top 5 favorite Rush songs. Neil was genius. I had the amazing experience to see Rush perform live 5 times. More songs to add to your list. Far Cry, Red Barchetta, Witch Hunt, Mission, Bravado, Neil's Drum solo in Frankfurt Germany. Main Monkey Business Live (Instrumental) Earthshine.
Keep going down the Rush rabbit hole. Try digital man live from Snakes and arrows 2012? Great bass ya dig.,..😊
Akex’s guitar work lays on top of those offbeats so beautifully. When you say Neil carried this song it drives me crazy.
As a drummer myself I was a huge fan of Neil, so as I heard in an interview , in the last part of this piece,he was actually following Alex guitar in that off rhythm at the end of this song. R.I.P Neil.
My friend you and I may see this world in different perspectives and is ok yet on this journey of togetherness through music where we are on the same plane Rush accomplish the golden rule of all humanity to be kind. If I may sum it up in five words...open heart open mind always. As a drummer I am seeing what your saying and understand when I play I am actually talking as music is the universal language, meant to converse with all.to bring us together to love one another. Love Brother.
For a church guy, I'm surprised you didn't catch on by the title. Jacob's ladder is a biblical reference from the book of genesis. It's the ladder that leads to heaven, that can be seen when streams of light (The ladders) break through the clouds after a rain storm. This song was supposed to be an instrumental painting that very picture of those bright unbroken beams made their way thought the clouds, but the band decided to add lyrics to make that image more obvious... I thought the music was sufficient in painting that picture but I do love the addition of those simple but poetic lyrics.
What you said is exactly why love Rush. Every time an album came out, people would try to compare it to their older work. But I always said they do something unique on every album. I always wanted to hear what they were going to do next!
They are musician’s for musicians when you dive deeper.
14:40 That's exactly what makes Rush what they are. Perfect medley of progressive rock noodling and timeless digestible song writing.
When i was in grade 9 high school 2011. I heard Rush- Subdivisions for the 1st time on local radio station. Became my favorite band ever since!
This was the song that allowed me to really appreciate 7/8 time. Great reaction keep it up.
Liked as soon as I saw the stank face. 😫 I’m always hard-pressed to name a “favorite” Rush song, but this one is always part of the discussion. So crunchy and evocative…you can literally SEE the storm clouds building, then parting, and rays of light beaming through. Pure poetry!
Awesome song(and reaction!), even though Rush never again played it live after Moving Pictures Tour (per Exit Stage Live recording in '81) ,so this one was a treat when we got to see it performed on their final tour, R40.
It’s hauntingly beautiful and draws thematically at least from the Biblical account in Genesis, where Jacob wrestles the angel (or God as it’s sometimes interpreted). Neil Peart weaves and or boils this story down to human fascination, and or the awe-reverence that we experience during natural phenomena, and so it takes a secular exit from the Biblical account. The music though is heavenly, mysterious and inspiring, and to that extend pays homage to the mystery of Jacob’s Ladder; and can't say enough about his choice drum work on this: rock, marching band, and classical all in one!
For those who would like to understand the roots and archeological setting of this song (as I'm once again more than certain NEP read the Biblical account and drew inspiration from it), you can watch this archaeologist explain it here. Absolutely fascinating:
m.czcams.com/video/3qlfi6doRJI/video.html
Rush actually never played this song on the Moving Pictures tour. The live rendition you hear on Exit Stage Left was recorded a year earlier in 1980 on the Permanent Waves tour during their visit to the UK along with Closer To The Heart, Beneath Between Behind, and Passage To Bangkok.
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@rattan3793, you’re absolutely correct sir; pardon the late night slip! That is a fact I was well aware of but alas, time has a way of making us “lose it” (pun intended!) as we grow older.
I hear you on convoluted music. Not many bands know how to make complicated music accessible to everyone. Rush is one of a Kind
Sir it seems like you're not used to alternating time signatures. I believe the beginning shifts from 5/4 to 6/4. When you played the first riff you were doing straight 5 and not shifting to the 6/4 measure directly after it. It gives the piece that 11 feel
Check out Neil Pearts drum solo Frankfurt
Lyrics are litteral: before, during and after a thunderstorm.
I love this song and the live version from the R40 tour is an amazing experience, as well. I love the dark, moody feel of this song, and I also like watching them bring this to life in a live setting.
Close your eyes and listen.
See the clouds. Focus.
This music will take you on a journey like no other.
The live version of this song on exit stage left is truly wonderful
So many fantastic drum parts in one song! Never the same fill twice! I get spiritual listening to this!
This creator is destined for great things,..... I can feel it,.. Good stuff!!
You would really enjoy Neil's drum solos. Seriously worth a look and listen for the experience.
This is in my top 10 of favorite Rush songs. It reminds me so much of classical music that I usually refer to it as a "composition". From beginning to end, it's sublime. Understated, smooth, airy, bold, and then finally building to a dramatic conclusion. What a great piece.
I think I could see your brain working as you listened to this, especially later on. Almost a visual representation of what I like to think of as some nerdy rock! Great stuff.
Loving your channel, Sir! I think you would really enjoy the live in Dallas version of "Where's My Thing?" Opens up with a nasty bass solo and has a drum solo about mid way. Enjoy!
The A flat to E gives it a more haunting effect. This album was recorded and finished before the end of 1979. They were so ahead of their time. You should check out Neal’s Buddy Rich tribute. 🏄♂️
you should also check out Rush - Where s My Thing? - Live in Dallas and xanadu live exit stage left
Love Neil's drum part composition on this track. Every time they repeat the riff he adds something new and different. Geddy also sprinkles in some changes. The Alex solo at the beginning is a favorite of mine.
Great comments and analysis as usual. Thanks for choosing this Often overlooked track from Permanent Waves.
The lyrics are fairly straightforward in this song. I am sure you will pick them up on a subsequent listen. I love how the music brings a mental picture of a storm forming, building reaching its climax and breaking, leaving behind "Jacobs Ladder" and a feeling of awe, as sunlight breaks through the clouds.
I am very much enjoying your Journey through the Rush catalogue. This is a band you can really take your time with and love.
Loved this one. The guitar sound is great.
You get it,thier musical genius
You must check this out live from their last tour in 2015. R40. Amazing for 3 guys in their 60's!
I am loving your Rush journey. They were my first concert ever (Signals tour) and no one ever quite stacked up to them. Neil Peart made me actually listen to the drums and appreciate the rhythm section.
Btw, so great to have true musicians listening in. Makes a huge difference in the content. Thank you.
Great reaction to RUSH as always! Please check out 2112 and Fountain of Lamneth!
Fountain of Lamneth is another often overlooked Gem.
THE TREES, MAN! LISTEN TO THE TREES!!
Neil played Great fills. Geddy played Great bass and keyboards and foot pedals.
Fills being chimes and the chime tunes in the rear of his set.😊
Rush's live performances were always spectacular. Seeing them play this, with the accompanying light show and back screen is epic. Unlike any other band, Rush would touch your spirit and soul with this combination, triggering an emotional connection.
Wow, you’ve gotta really great ear Church Boy!! 🔥🎵
Up for this drop, nice. One of my favorites.
I’m waiting for you to do Limelight and trip out on the 7s. Great channel!
I've become a huge fan of this channel over the last few weeks. It's a pleasure seeing your excitement discovering the greatness of Rush.
As a bass player you MUST react to Digital Man. It's one of Geddy's finest moments.
As others have stated, Xanadu from Exit...Stage Left is a must. There are a bevy of other songs that I think would hit you in the ' bass player feels', The Big Money -Live from A Show of Hands, Turn the Page, Headlong Flight, Show Don't Tell, Double Agent, and By Tor and the Snow Dog.
Headlong Flight...!!!!!
Yeah, Neil crushes this. This was the song that taught me instead of switching back and forth btwn time signatures (eg the 5/4, 6/4 opening) and just add them together and make a string of 11s!
Great reaction! You have a great ear. 🥁🤘
Such a fun, and challenging song to play on the drums!
Rush are absolute musical geniuses.
The things you notice and like about them make me think you would like Tool. I really think you should check them out. Start with The Pot and see what you think 😊
You are so right. Musicians always appreciate Rush. Keep it coming, enjoying your reactions!
Others have already mentioned, but you really do have a great ear. I very much enjoy seeing and hearing people enjoy Rush, but I especially enjoy those who can appreciate the artistry of their music.
The instrumental "La Villa Strangiato" live in 1981.
Note: That the track is _sonically_ and conceptually about a "Thunderhead" (Cumulonimbus cloud) as it forms and as it dissipates, but Neil Peart uses the Biblical reference for the sun beams (Crepuscular rays) and the "vision" of Jacob . . .
"And Jacob went out from Beer-sheba, and went toward Haran. And he lighted upon the place, and tarried there all night, because the sun was set; and he took one of the stones of the place, and put it under his head, and lay down in that place to sleep. And he dreamed, and behold a ladder set up on the earth, and the top of it reached to heaven; and behold the angels of God ascending and descending on it".
*- Genesis 28:10-19*
this song sounds like a yes song their heroes i can not emphasize enough how rush was influence by the band yes as youngster !
I'm enjoying your Rush journey 👍
"Jacob's ladder. noun. Old Testament the ladder reaching up to heaven that Jacob saw in a dream (Genesis 28:12-17) "
hey... I just now had your channel with your reaction to Marathon Man and I was so impressed with your reaction because your a musician and loved how you analyzed the song and here I am on this second with Jacobs' Ladder. You know your music no doubt and so appreciate this band. Not only is Neil an incredibly gifted drummer who has worked hard fine tuning with drum playing and I'm sure by now you know he writes most of the lyrics and the other 2 along with Neil compose their extraordinary music. Rush alone with the Beatles and CSNY are my top 3 however I been here now for 7 decades plus and I have come across so many gifted musicians and their awesome music. List would be long! I see on the bar you have reacted to many Rush songs, however unless I missed it doesn't seem you reacted to 2112. If you havent' yet and you plan to, hold on to your hat! 2112 was the very first song I heard and it took me to the stratosphere. I was stunned and left dumbfounded with what I heard with it. Check it out if you havent yet Peace out
Great work, CB. It's great to watch a first reaction channel from someone who not only appreciates the music, but understands the musicianship instantly.
Why whenever I hear this I fly through the clouds.
That guitar tone at 4:22 of your video, the first solo, epic sound!
This is prog-rock's version of Richard Strauss' An Alpine Symphony tone poem. I think their live versions of Jacob's Ladder are performed better than the studio version.
Another excellent reaction. Please please please do Vital Signs. The bass line is ridiculous. I can’t believe he songs and plays this at the same time!!!! My wife and I love Tye Tribbett too! That was a fun reference!