The $2.99 Rush iPhone app is one I can get behind because I like Rush. As any self-respecting drummer has, I have watched videos of Neil Peart playing, drooled over pictures of his drum kit, and tuned in to his beats when listening to Rush songs.
My fascination with Rush’s drummer made it particularly interesting to read in the “Spirit of Radio” section—which features music and facts about the Canadian trio—about how the lyrics of the song “Anthem” are inspired by novelist Ayn Rand, whose ideas were an early influence on Peart. I also read, as I listened to the song, that “Finding My Way” was only played twice during the 80s during two different tours — both times as an encore, and the popular “Closer to the Heart” was their first hit single in the UK. While you view each song, the matching album cover pops up at the top, along with the year the record came out.
“Monkey Business” provides you with a slideshow of pictures of band members and album art to view, or use as wallpaper. “News” offers exciting updates, such as ticket information for the band’s Brazil shows in the fall, as well as a rescheduled date for a Chicago show. And “Caravan” gives the full tour schedule, including links to Ticketmaster for ticket purchasing and directions to each show.
XXPerhaps the most enticing part of the whole app, though, is the bobbleheads! One for each member of the band, the bobbles shake and regurgitate lines like “Get ready to make rock history” said by Peart’s bobblehead, and “Who does your nails?” said by guitarist Alex Lifeson’s. Bassist/lead singer Geddy Lee’s bobblehead says things like, “Stop, you’re giving me a headache already,” “I got nothing,” and “That’s all I got.”
This app also connects you to iTunes, so you can purchase Rush tracks, and provides the YouTube link for more exclusive vintage clips from “Beyond the Lighted Stage.”
