The biggest week in the Rush universe in over a decade deserved something different... so we threw out the usual format and assembled an all-star panel.

Chaz and Schatz are joined by our co-hostess with the mostest Jillian Maryonovich (RushCon), Ed Toth (The Doobie Brothers), Greg Russell (Mr. Peart's Friend, Drummer Natural Science, and Xcitelabs Director), and John Patuto (Cygnus-X1.net) to unpack the first week of Rush's historic 2026 return to the stage. From first impressions of Anika Nilles behind the kit, to the emotional tributes to Neil Peart, the jaw-dropping setlists, and the overwhelming reaction from the Rush community, this is a candid fan conversation recorded while history is still unfolding.

Was everyone skeptical going in? Absolutely.

Did the first four shows change minds?

You'll have to listen.

This isn't a review—it's five lifelong Rush fans trying to process something many of us never thought we'd see again: Geddy and Alex back on stage, celebrating the music, honoring Neil, and reminding us why this band continues to mean so much.

• The panel's honest reactions after opening week
• Why Anika Nilles may have the toughest job in rock music
• The emotional response from the Rush fan community
• Greg Russell discusses creating the video tribute to his friend
• Setlist surprises, deep cuts, and what they mean for the tour
• Why many longtime fans say they "felt safe loving Rush again"
• What the future of the tour could hold city by city

Whether you've already seen the show or you're counting the days until your date, this episode captures the excitement, uncertainty, and joy of an unforgettable week in Rush history.

#Rush #RushRash #GeddyLee #AlexLifeson #NeilPeart #AnnikaNilles #RushTour2026 #RushFans #ProgressiveRock #ClassicRock #RushCon

SCHATZ'S SCRATCH LIST - RUSH TRIBUTE BANDS

Scratch your itch to hear RUSH music played live by going to check out any of these great RUSH Tribute Bands - these bands are keeping the community and the music alive - the most current, curated, and rockin' list of RUSH Tribute Bands in the world! Yeah!

⁠⁠⁠⁠Click here: ⁠Schatz's Scratch List⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠(And say it 5 times fast!)

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