Rush Rash with Chaz N Schatz

On this week’s gloriously over-caffeinated episode of Rush Rash, Chaz and Shatz throw open the castle gates and welcome back the noble troubadours of prog pageantry — A Farewell to Kings (AF2K) — for a discussion that is equal parts rock summit, gear symposium, and mildly controlled chaos.Adam and Johnny arrive armed with tales of theaters conquered, albums performed in their entirety, and the delicate art of recreating Rush 2.0 without being chased out of town by purists wielding vintage tour programs.There is spirited debate over:The audacity of a four-piece Rush tribute in a three-piece universeWhat happens when Rush themselves re-enter the live arenaThe logistical ballet of hauling enough equipment to invade a small countryPerforming Power Windows, Moving Pictures, 2112… and not collapsingBubba Bash heroics and keeping the community heartbeat loudIt’s tribute band life examined under a microscope — with reverence, with laughter, and with just enough self-awareness to keep the torches lowered.THIS WEEK'S SONGThe Wheel spins and lands on Malignant Narcissism from 2007's Snakes and Arrows. The gang weighs in on this late-era instrumental groove, celebrating Rush’s ability to jam, stretch out, and surprise. And it really isn't a surprise the wheel would spin this song in the presence of these world-class musicians now, is it? Why are we here? If you’ve got an itch, you know where to scratch.Rush Rash.SCHATZ'S SCRATCH LIST - RUSH TRIBUTE BANDSScratch 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!)GO BONELESSCertified boneless in the state of Ohio by the Boneless Podcasting Network. Go Boneless. Boneless Makes a Better Podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on Rush Rash, Chaz and Shatz crack open the Haggis Shack to welcome a true lifer: Rob Silverberg, the driving force behind Midwest RushFest. Before the wheel spins, the guys dive deep into Rob’s Rush origin story—Signals and “The Analog Kid” as the gateway, Columbia House confessions, and buying Grace Under Pressure on release day like it was a sacred ritual.From there, it’s all about community. Rob walks through the evolution of Midwest Rush Fest—from a heartfelt gathering in 2016 to a full-blown annual celebration at The Pageant in St. Louis. Along the way: Martin Popoff, Kevin J. Anderson, Maya Wynn, Nancy and Judy Peart, Thunderhead, jam sessions, catered dinners, raffle giveaways, and hundreds of Rushians sharing one room where everyone gets the references. As Rob puts it, it’s the rare place where you’re not the only Rush fan in the room.The conversation detours into serious collector territory—basements lined floor to ceiling, the philosophy of “exhibition, not competition,” and the surreal moment of spotting his own Rush license plate hanging in Ray Daniels’ office in Beyond the Lighted Stage. Add 60 live Rush shows, multiple meet-and-greets, and a possible nod of recognition from Geddy Lee, and you’ve got a résumé that earns its stripes.The wheel lands on Dreamline from Roll the Bones.The trio breaks down the song’s urgency, cinematic production, and that unmistakable opening drive. They dig into the themes of youth, motion, and the fleeting nature of time—“we are young, wandering the face of the earth”—and reflect on how the song mirrors the Rush touring life itself: rolling at home when you’re on the run.A celebration of fandom, fellowship, and forward momentum—this episode proves that even decades later, the dream is still alive.SCHATZ'S SCRATCH LIST - RUSH TRIBUTE BANDSScratch 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!)GO BONELESSCertified boneless in the state of Ohio by the Boneless Podcasting Network. Go Boneless. Boneless Makes a Better Podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on Rush Rash, Chaz n Shatz welcome Paul Rydalch — lifelong Rush obsessive, repentant superfan, and now official roadie for Rush Archives — for one of the wildest, funniest, and most heartfelt conversations the show has ever hosted.Paul traces his journey from a teenage Signals-era gateway moment to 17 Rush shows, backstage misadventures, near-misses, security scares, meet-and-greet miracles, and ultimately finding his place behind the scenes with Rush Archives. Along the way, he shares unforgettable stories involving soundchecks, banners, pit passes, hotel stairwells, Mr. Rush figurines, and the fine line between passion and obsession — all told with honesty, humor, and hard-earned self-awareness.The episode also digs into what makes Rush Archives special: the community, the family atmosphere, and the love-driven dedication it takes to faithfully bring Rush’s music to life on stage. From road crew realities to the emotional pull of Rush’s legacy, this is a deep dive into fandom, forgiveness, and finding your people.As always, the night ends where it should: with the Bone Roller spinning fate’s wheel. The result — Secret Touch from Vapor Trails sparks a thoughtful discussion about grief, resilience, texture, and why this track stands as one of Rush’s most underrated late-period compositions.Big stories. Big laughs. Big feelings.This is Rush Rash at full scratch — and it’s one you don’t want to miss.SCHATZ'S SCRATCH LIST - RUSH TRIBUTE BANDSScratch 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!)GO BONELESSCertified boneless in the state of Ohio by the Boneless Podcasting Network. Go Boneless. Boneless Makes a Better Podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this gloriously unhinged episode of Rush Rash, Chaz and Schatz throw all sense of structure out the window and celebrate Haggis Day the only way they know how: by heeding the call of one Steve Brown to invite Paul Beaulieu and make the Haggis Shack the World's Deli in honor of Robbie Burns' Birthday!A full detour involving wild haggis, vegetarian haggis, Robert Burns, bagpipes, kilts, lamb lungs (allegedly), neeps, tatties, whisky gravy, and the eternal mystery of how Scotland continues to function at all. Cultural education may occur. Digestion is discussed. Poetry is threatened and delivered. No empty words here.Once the haggis smoke clears, however, the episode pivots hard into serious Rush business—and there is a lot of it.Steve and Paul unload a whirlwind of updates from the front lines of the Moving Pictures and RushFest universe, including:Massive touring plans and behind-the-scenes realities of running one of the busiest Rush tribute bands on the planetMajor announcements for RushFest Scotland and RushFest Canada, including venues, dates, and an absolutely stacked lineup of guestsAppearances and involvement from Rush inner-circle legends including Terry Brown, Hugh Syme, Kevin J. Anderson, Nancy and Judy Peart, and moreUpdates on Songs for Neil, including upcoming volumes, new contributors, and the staggering amount of money raised for brain cancer researchA brand-new solo piano Rush album in the works, with artwork by Hugh SymeThe return of The Professor whisky with Volume 2 officially on the wayCharity auctions, ticket giveaways, and community-driven fundraising that somehow keep getting bigger, louder, and more meaningfulEventually—because it is Rush Rash—the wheel spins.THIS WEEK’S SONG🎵 “Hope” (Snakes & Arrows)Alex Lifeson’s delicate 12-string instrumental lands at exactly the right moment, prompting reflections on alternate tunings, restraint, beauty, loss, resilience, and why this quiet piece carries so much emotional weight. Guitars are fetched. Feelings happen. The wheel, once again, proves it knows more than anyone in the room. All wrapped into one very Scottish, very Rush-brained celebration. We might not have played How Many Times Did They Play It Live (113 Chaz wins again!) becasue the BPM Monkey was nowhere to be seen, but rthe wheel did bestow a new song for Steve to learn. And in the end...Haggis was honored.News was delivered.Hope prevailed.Slàinte. 🥃SCHATZ'S SCRATCH LIST - RUSH TRIBUTE BANDSScratch 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!)GO BONELESSCertified boneless in the state of Ohio by the Boneless Podcasting Network. Go Boneless. Boneless Makes a Better Podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Part two of our Bubba Bash 2026 recap drops us right back into the thick of it, with exclusive backstage access courtesy of Rush Rash correspondent Jillian Maryonovich of RushCon while Chaz and Schatz were… let’s say administratively indisposed.This episode is anchored by deeply personal, moving conversations with John Wesley (Vertical Horizon, Porcupine Tree) and Ed Toth (The Doobie Brothers), as both musicians reflect on the profound impact Neil Peart had on their lives — not just as a drummer, lyricist, or philosopher, but as a friend, mentor, and fellow traveler.John Wesley shares unforgettable stories of riding with Bubba, earning his trust on winding roads, and the bond forged through music, motorcycles, family, and long conversations about life. His memories — from celebrating Neil’s birthday to living by the mantra WWBD (What Would Bubba Do) — are heartfelt, raw, and deeply human.Ed Toth traces his Rush origin story back to seventh grade, discovering Moving Pictures, receiving a handwritten postcard from Neil, and carrying those words with him for decades. His reflections capture what Rush means to generations of fans and musicians alike — a band that transcends music and becomes part of who you are. And a surprise interloper in the form of Jonny Dinklage, who diverts attention and steals the show along with it!and we wrap it up with reflections from Tim Starace of YYNOT, one of the organizers, on how it all began, what it all means, and where it goes from here.There are laughs, tears, unfiltered honesty, and a shared understanding that Rush isn’t just a band — it’s a compass. From backstage tears to life-altering moments, this episode is a powerful reminder of Neil Peart’s enduring legacy and the way his spirit continues to ride alongside us.So grab a Macallan, find a comfortable chair, and settle in — this is Rush Rush at its most personal, most emotional, and most essential. No effin kiddin'. DONATE - GET SOME STICKS IN THE GAME Please join the cause by donating directly to Cedars-Sinai in memory of Neil: support.cedars-sinai.edu/fundraiser/5043373SCHATZ'S SCRATCH LIST - RUSH TRIBUTE BANDSScratch 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!)GO BONELESSCertified boneless in the state of Ohio by the Boneless Podcasting Network. Go Boneless. Boneless Makes a Better Podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this very special part one of a Rush Rash episode, we welcome Jillian from RushCon, officially crowned the show’s Field Correspondent, reporting live(ish) from the 2026 Bubba Bash. Jillian delivers the goods: interviews, live recordings, backstage audio, after-party vibes, and the kind of behind-the-scenes reality you only get when musicians are running on fumes and love for the music.The conversation digs into what these events really take — minimal rehearsal, high pressure, maximum respect for the Rush catalog — including Jillian’s chat with Tyler Warren about the weight of playing this music live. Chaz also reconnects with Greg Russell, swapping stories and reflecting on how these fan-driven events keep evolving year after year.And then there’s that moment — Jillian meeting Neil Peart’s daughter, a powerful reminder of why these gatherings hit so hard for the Rush community. (Also confirmed: yes, she’s very tall.)We go live with recordings of Driven, Natural Science and Working Man straight from the floor of the show. It’s an episode full of travel chaos, Rush family vibes, exhausted joy, and the kind of stories that only happen when fans come together for the music that changed their lives.No matter where they are in the world, Chaz and Schatz keep scratching the itch. Now, let's got to the Keswick Theater in Glenside Pensylvania for the start of our 2026 coverage of Bubba Bash! SCHATZ'S SCRATCH LIST - RUSH TRIBUTE BANDSScratch 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!)GO BONELESSCertified boneless in the state of Ohio by the Boneless Podcasting Network. Go Boneless. Boneless Makes a Better Podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rush Rash Presents: TOM SAWYER — A GENERATIONAL EVENTStep right up for a heartwarming, music-filled adventure the whole family can enjoy! In this special episode, Chaz and Schatz, together with their children, two generations come together to describe the forthcoming Rush Rash Reactions, where a couple of Rushian parents spin a wheel packed with nearly 200 songs from every genre imaginable. Watch as classic rock dads bravely hand over the aux cord to their kids, diving into a vibrant world of K-pop, hip-hop, indie, and anime soundtracks. We preview the new format with Keara and Paul Howley and Emma and Sam Schatzberg, the curators of our new show's soundtrack!After years of forced exposure to their parents’ playlists in the car, the kids finally get a voice. They join the show this week to talk about their own musical tastes, how they experience music differently, and why certain songs land while others don’t. As part of the visit, they unveil a brand-new, 192-song wheel they curated themselves, setting the stage for future episodes of Rush Rash Reactions, the fun has only just begun!THIS WEEK'S SONGWe've threatened to do a special Tom Sawyer episode, and we couldn't have found a better time to do it! The group listens to Rush’s most iconic and widely recognized song and breaks it down together—parents and kids in the same room, hearing it from very different perspectives. The conversation moves from first impressions and familiarity to deeper discussion around lyrics, independence, perception, and what the song represents to longtime fans versus newer listeners.Topics include:How the kids know Rush—and how often they’ve actually chosen to listenWhy Tom Sawyer functions as a cultural constant, even for non-fansFirst-time reactions versus decades of contextNeil Peart’s lyrics as expressions of individuality and worldviewThe contrast between inherited music and personal tasteThe result is a candid, funny, and revealing episode that’s less about explaining Rush and more about learning who the kids are through how they hear music.Tune in this coming Wednesday for the premiere episode of Rush Rash Reactions—a reactional conversation to a generational gap in music enjoyment - because listening matters as much as legacy.SCHATZ'S SCRATCH LIST - RUSH TRIBUTE BANDSScratch 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!)GO BONELESSCertified boneless in the state of Ohio by the Boneless Podcasting Network. Go Boneless. Boneless Makes a Better Podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of RushRash, Chaz and Schatz once again fly without a guest but this time, it's due to the unfortunate loss of a much-loved friend of the world-wide Rush Fan Community - Joe Pesch. We'd booked his good friend, Rob Silverberg of Mid-west Rushfest, but understandibly we rescheduled due to the timly nature of when we were all hearing the news. So a few moments of reflection, and as always, the wheel chimes in later with a song that has us reflecting on our own mortality...But we met Joe at RUSHFest Canada, and we know he wouldn't want to bring down the vibe - so we carry on...From there, the guys talk about Chaz spending time as a roadie for the show with Rush Archives, and all of the new shows in our podcasting universe - Rush Rash Reactions coming on YouTube - Those Who Are About To Dive: Chronicling Colosseum Track By Bloody Track with Dr. Glund - yep, it's the full title - the CMPU's Rock Court Season 2 - and all the other cool stuff coming from The Boneless Podcasting Network in 2026.THIS WEEK’S SONG“Available Light” from Presto — what starts as casual reflection quickly turns inward, as the guys unpack “Available Light”—not just as a song, but as a worldview typical of Neil. They explore how he captured time, aging, perception, and motion without nostalgia or regret, and why this track quietly says more than some of the band’s louder statements, and imagine what it might have sounded like with heavier musical accompaniment. Ha! Here we are, second guessing R U S H...oh my!SCHATZ'S SCRATCH LIST - RUSH TRIBUTE BANDSScratch 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!)GO BONELESSCertified boneless in the state of Ohio by the Boneless Podcasting Network. Go Boneless. Boneless Makes a Better Podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of Rush Rash, Chaz and Schatz fly without a guest and let the show breathe—riffing, reacting, and rolling wherever the Rush news cycle takes them.From absurd culinary detours (yes, haggis somehow enters the chat) to the very real shock of Rush suddenly being back in motion, the guys unpack the whirlwind of tour announcements, ticket madness, fan events, and the strange emotional hangover that comes with seeing a “retired” band re-enter the world at full force They dig into:The surreal reality of Rush returning as a live, touring entityFan events colliding across Toronto, New York, and beyondThe economics, logistics, and psychology of being a lifelong Rush fan right nowCharity efforts honoring Neil Peart, including Lakeside Park and cancer researchSponsor shout-outs rooted in community, not commerceTHIS WEEK'S SONG“Open Secrets” from Hold Your Fire—with thoughtful discussion on lyrics, production, era, and where the song ultimately lives: limelight, shadows, or somewhere in between.SCHATZ'S SCRATCH LIST - RUSH TRIBUTE BANDSScratch 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!)GO BONELESSCertified boneless in the state of Ohio by the Boneless Podcasting Network. Go Boneless. Boneless Makes a Better Podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chaz and Schatz are cracking the Haggis Shack doors for our annual deep dive into Bubba Bash, the celebration that honors Neil Peart with musicianship, camaraderie, and the kind of backstage family energy that only Neil's personal friends can generate. This isn’t a memorial; it’s a living, breathing night of joy, excellence, and community. Michael Mosbach, Neil’s close friend of 25 years, joins us. Michael is the guy who helped Neil keep a normal, peaceful life by managing privacy, safety, and everything in between. Not a bodyguard—don’t even start. He’s a threat-management and privacy-protection pro who made sure Neil could live without a spotlight in his face. He arrives not as a celebrity guest, but as part of the Bubba Bash family, bringing clarity, humor, and stories grounded in friendship, not mythology.Tim Starace, bassist for YYNOT and co-architect of the Bash, takes us behind the scenes on how this whole thing came to life—from one frantic phone call to a full-blown annual tradition that sells out even in Pennsylvania snowstorms. Tim breaks down the passion, the planning, the near-misses, the late-night texts, the chaos, and the joy behind making Bubba Bash happen.Cathy Rankin, the metal mistress herself and the host of Bubba Bash, talks about stepping into the whirlwind that first year, balancing the emotional weight of the event with the electric energy of the musicians and fans, and how the backstage vibe evolved into a genuine family reunion—complete with nerves, laughter, and maybe a few tears during “Losing It.”Together, this power trio walks us through:• How Bubba Bash began—and why it exploded• The outrageous level of musicianship (and the zero rehearsals)• The guest artists flying in on their own dime• The mission: raising funds for glioblastoma researchAt the heart of it is the purpose: honoring Neil through action, generosity, connection, and community. Just people coming together to celebrate someone they loved by doing something good.This episode is Bubba Bash as told by the people who build it, live it, and feel it every year. This is the conversation Rush fans rarely get to hear.GET INVOLVED!4th Annual Bubba Bash, celebrating Neil PeartJanuary 10, 2026 • Keswick Theatre, Glenside, PAAnchored by YYNOT:Tim Starace, Billy Alexander, Mike Hetzel, Adi ArgelaziGuest Artists:Jonny Dinklage • Jason Bittner • Ed Toth • Joe Bergamini • John WesleyTyler Warren • kOko pOwell • Alex Figueroa • Rodney McGMike Orlando • Fer Velasco • Greg Russell • Jack Gibson • Tyme RogersHosted by:Cathy Rankin, the metal mistress herselfDONATE & GET TICKETSDonate directly to Cedars-Sinai in memory of Neil:https://support.cedars-sinai.edu/fundraiser/5043373Grab tickets before it sells out (it always does and we got ours):https://www.axs.com/events/1160303/bubba-bash-ticketsSCHATZ'S SCRATCH LIST - RUSH TRIBUTE BANDSScratch 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!)GO BONELESSCertified boneless in the state of Ohio by the Boneless Podcasting Network. Go Boneless. Boneless Makes a Better Podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Chaz and Schatz welcome a true RushRash first — a father-and-son Rush podcaster duo right out of the Haggis Shack: Trent and Trion Fancher, the minds behind The Digital Man and His Analog Kid podcast.From womb-level Rush exposure to diaper-drumming, from attic-found Neil promo pics to a Rush-themed studio complete with the sacred pinball machine, the Fanchers take us through a lifetime of prog devotion. Trent shares stories from touring with Wayne Brady, playing Massey Hall, and assembling his own Neil Peart-inspired fortress of chimes and cowbells. Trion talks bass wizardry, Midwest emo, band life in Birmingham, and discovering the full Rush discography the right way — chronologically and obsessively.We dive deep into:🎧 Gateway Rush moments across generations🥁 Raising a musician inside a Neil Peart rhythm womb📼 Their podcast origins, rankings, “wish-’em-wells,” and the hardest question: What’s the worst song on a perfect album?🎟️ Thoughts on Rush 3.0 with Anika NillesTHIS WEEK'S SONGThe wheel gives us By-Tor And The Snow Dog. Cue the mythical battle. Cue the chaos. It’s a Living in the Limelight moment if there ever was one.Rush, music nerdery, podcasters who pod about podding, gutteral animal sounds from stringed instruments, and multigenerational fandom — at over 2 effin hours, this episode delivers for you, eh?CALLING ASPIRING TRIBUTE BAND MUSICIANSAre you a guitarist or vocalist who loves Rush? Trent is assembling a Rush tribute band and is actively searching for an “Lerxst” and possibly a lead vocalist to round out the lineup. If you can channel Lifeson’s iconic guitar work—or have the vocal chops to take on Ged’s legendary parts—Trent wants to hear from you. Join a passionate project dedicated to celebrating Rush’s music in the Birmingham area. Interested musicians should contact Trent on Instagram: @trentfancher.SCHATZ'S SCRATCH LIST - RUSH TRIBUTE BANDSScratch 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!)GO BONELESSCertified boneless in the state of Ohio by the Boneless Podcasting Network. Go Boneless. Boneless Makes a Better Podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here comes TRon! Rush love stories, ticket chaos, and dancing to deep cuts in 11/8 at your wedding—this week, Chaz and Schatz welcome Rush Fest All-Stars Terry Hill and TRon into the Haggis Shack for a transatlantic celebration of prog fandom and community.They break down:🎸 Terry and Ron’s Rush origin stories—from Ontario radio waves and summer camp cassettes to buying the entire back catalog in a Cologne record shop🥁 How Rush fandom led to a wedding on 21/12/2012, a circle of lifelong friends, and playing Massey Hall as part of the Rush Fest All-Stars🎟️ The wild ride of scoring tickets for Rush’s new tour🎶 Hear Schatz's “special left-handed cowbell” backing up Terry on In The Mood, live from Massey Hall in their RushFestCanada25 All Star Band Boneless Records Debut Single!!🎶 Hear “Life’s a Rush" a TRon love song, written and perfromed by Maria Wallace (with permission you bastards at Spotify!!)💬 Misheard lyrics, karaoke challenges, and the joy (and pain) of tribute band gigsTHIS WEEK'S SONGAnd then—it’s time to spin the wheel. The mischievous wheel lands on “Beneath, Between & Behind,” launching a spirited debate on why this short, sharp classic still resonates 50 years on, and how Rush’s lyrics remain as relevant as ever.Plug in, laugh along, and “go scratch that itch”—the Rush family is back, and the journey continues.SCHATZ'S SCRATCH LIST - RUSH TRIBUTE BANDSScratch 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!)GO BONELESSCertified boneless in the state of Ohio by the Boneless Podcasting Network. Go Boneless. Boneless Makes a Better Podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After two years of promises, it finally happened — the mighty Rush Archives join Chaz and Schatz in the Haggis Shack! Colorado’s premier Rush tribute trio — Steve Clark (Geddy), Ferando Escobar (Alex), and Ron Straley (Neil) — finally sit down to talk all things Rush, from 2112 to Clockwork Angels.They break down:🎸 The band’s gateway Rush moments — Spirit of Radio, 2112, The Camera Eye🥁 How Steve learned bass, keys, and foot pedals in six months (because...Geddy Lee)📸 Legendary photographer Bill O’Leary still shooting film — with the same camera he used on Rush themselves🤘 The impact of Rush’s return with Anika Nilles behind the kit💸 Ticket prices, tribute scene realities, and what keeps the Archives authenticAnd then — it’s time to spin the wheel…the mischievous wheel gives us the lead track to the Rush 2.0 era, “Anthem.”The guys break down why that track still hits like a musical thunderclap — from Alex’s surgical riffing to Neil’s impossible syncopation — and why it remains a rallying cry for every working man.GO catch Rush Archives' Next Show: Wednesday, November 26th @ Buffalo Rose, Golden, Colorado — The Night Before Thanksgiving Rush Bash!SCHATZ'S SCRATCH LIST - RUSH TRIBUTE BANDSScratch 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!)GO BONELESSCertified boneless in the state of Ohio by the Boneless Podcasting Network. Go Boneless. Boneless Makes a Better Podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, the Haggis Shack smells like peach pie and nostalgia as Chaz and Schatz welcome the sister of The Professor himself, Nancy Peart Burkholder, along with the host of the Bubba Bash fellow Rush lifer Cathy Rankin.What follows is one of the most heartfelt and hilariously insightful conversations we’ve ever had. Nancy opens up the family scrapbook and lets us peek inside the Peart household — the laughter, the mischief, and the moments that made Neil more than a legend… they made him Neil.We hear about the big brother who drummed on his sister's playpen, the teen who read everything in sight, and the man who sent postcards home from every corner of the world — still grounded by love for his family and the rhythm that started around Betty Peart’s kitchen table.Nancy’s stories range from the hilarious to the humbling — memories of a brother who was thoughtful, generous, and beautifully human beneath the myth. She talks about the birth of Peart Family Events, how grief became purpose, and how the upcoming Legacy in Bronze project will literally set Neil’s spirit in stone.Meanwhile, Cathy shares her own journey — from Rush fan to recording artist — and the story behind her tribute song for Neil, a collaboration that turned loss into light. There’s laughter, love, and a few tears, but most of all there’s that unmistakable hum of the spirit of radio running through it all.⚡ In This Episode🏡 Growing up Peart — Nancy’s front-row seat to her brother’s curiosity, humor, and drive.🌍 Postcards from the road — and the quiet way Neil stayed connected to home.💖 The creation of Peart Family Events and how community became family.🎶 Cathy Rankin’s tribute song — healing through melody, with help from her family and friends.⛳ Teeing off at the Pure Golf Tournament — where charity meets air drumming.If you love Rush, if you love stories, and if you’ve ever felt that Neil’s words reached straight into your heart — this one’s for you.So pour a Scotch, raise a glass to her big brother, and join us as we celebrate family, music, and the rhythm that never fades.THIS WEEK'S SONGThe wheel playfully denies Nancy the opportunity to call her shot and instead we end up listening to The Larger Bowl off 2007's Snakes & Arrows. We get a special side story about what the larger bowl was about in the Peart house growing up.SHOW LINKSDonate! Legacy in Bronze - Help get Neil's statue erected in Lakeside Park97 Rock Shreed & Regan's Rush TributeCathy Rankin's Video for Now You've GonePeart Family Memorial Events - NP, GP, DP Peart Family Coffee - The Most Excellent Way to Start Your DayRamona Vogue's tribute to her Uncle Neil - Radio SilenceSCHATZ'S SCRATCH LIST - RUSH TRIBUTE BANDSScratch 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!)GO BONELESSCertified boneless in the state of Ohio by the Boneless Podcasting Network. Go Boneless. Boneless Makes a Better Podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Chaz and Schatz welcome Greg Russell—drummer, designer, and longtime friend of Neil Peart—back into the Haggis Shack for a deep-dive episode that’s equal parts tribute, therapy session, and celebration of all things Rush. With the band’s reunion and the addition of a new drummer making headlines, Greg shares his unique perspective as both a torchbearer in the tribute scene as drummer in Natural Science, and someone who rode thousands of miles with Neil himself.The conversation rockets from the emotional impact of Rush’s return (and what it means to the community) to Greg’s stories of life on the road with Neil, the art of playing Rush’s music, and the challenges and joys of keeping the spirit alive in tribute bands. Chaz and Schatz dig into the fan experience, ticket drama, and the bittersweet excitement of seeing Rush 3.0 take shape. Greg opens up about Neil’s legacy, his playful side, and the importance of honoring the music while embracing change.🔥 In This Episode:Greg’s memories of designing Neil’s iconic drum risers and sharing the open roadThe emotional rollercoaster of RUSH’s return and the choice of a new drummerWhat it means for tribute bands as the real band hits the stage againReflections on Neil’s character, humor, and approach to life and musicThe future of RUSH fandom, RushCon, and the evolving tribute communityA soft launch of “Rushathon”—Greg’s vision for a festival uniting tribute bands to play the entire Rush catalog liveTHIS WEEK’S SONGWe didn't spin the wheel this week, as it just seemed like the right thing to do, to pause the games (most of them) and spend an evening with a drink and a friend to talk about what it feels like to be a part of this time, in this place, with all that's our effin reality. Effin deep man...pass the bong...tune in, turn on, and enjoy this very special Hallmark, Disney, one-time, special to Blue-Ray, DVD and US Cass-ingle event: an episode recorded just a week and 2 days after the announcement of the RUSH Reunion - before the additional dates were announced! Still fresh! - Special from RushRash to you.And please welcome our newest sponsor - Peart Family Coffee to the Rush Rash Haggis Shack of "you scratch our back, we'll scratch yours" sponsorship! Go grab yourself a big ass cup of the most excellent cup of coffee you can have today and listen to some more R U S H with us - Hot Damn, eh!SCHATZ'S SCRATCH LIST - RUSH TRIBUTE BANDSScratch 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!)GO BONELESSCertified boneless in the state of Ohio by the Boneless Podcasting Network. Go Boneless. Boneless Makes a Better Podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Chaz and Schatz welcome the one and only Mike Massé — world-class vocalist, YouTube legend, and full-tilt Rush fan who’s brought stadium-sized harmonies to everything from “TIme Stands Still” to “Africa.” In this very special episode, Mike shares his memories of seeing the Signals tour from Florida’s Space Coast, and what it meant to watch “Countdown” while the real rockets blazed over Cape Canaveral. And the conversation rockets off the pad into discussions of the upcoming tour, Neil’s legacy, poetry-as-lyrics, and whether or not Uncle Gino should run the Vegas odds on “The Weapon” making the setlist.🔥 In This EpisodeMike’s Spirit of Radio moment — how a sister’s record collection changed his orbit.What it felt like to be the hometown crowd for “Countdown.”Thoughts on Rush’s return to the stage and carrying the torch to a new generation.Could Neil’s poetry become new lyrics?The future of tribute bands, the odds of deep-cut sightings, and Uncle Gino’s sketchy sportsbook.BE A PART OF MIKE'S MUSIC VIDEOWant to be a film star? Find your way to the world-famous Surf Ballroom this Sunday, October 19th.The event will feature a FREE CONCERT and the filming of Mike's new music video for an acoustic cover of Don McLean’s legendary anthem, “AmericanPie.” Mike will be joined on stage by his longtime collaborators and fan favorites, Jeff Hall and Sterling Cottam, for this one-night-only performance. Doors open at 7:00 PM, with the show beginning at 7:30 PM. The Surf Ballroom, forever etched in rock history as the final stage for Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and The Big Bopper on “The Day the Music Died,” is the perfect backdrop for Mike's heartfelt tribute. The video shoot will capture both the performance and the audience, allowing fans to be a visible part of this historic project. Be there or square you be.THIS WEEKS SONGThis week, the wheel gives us another very timely song - The Weapon - off 1982's Signals. You know the wheel always delivers, and this one gives the guys plenty to jaw on. It’s stories, laughs, and harmonies that prove the spirit of radio is still alive and crackling.SCHATZ'S SCRATCH LIST - RUSH TRIBUTE BANDSScratch 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!)GO BONELESSCertified boneless in the state of Ohio by the Boneless Podcasting Network. Go Boneless. Boneless Makes a Better Podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chaz & Schatz sit down with Tom Enright, the multi-instrumentalist, retired chemical engineer, and lifelong Rush fan who filled in on bass at the RUSHFest Canada All-Star Band. From his first “what the hell is this?” moment hearing Caress of Steel in grade four to 25 Rush concerts, RushCon pilgrimages, and beers at the Henderson Brewery, Tom’s story is pure Rush fandom alchemy — part science, part spirit, and all heart. NOTE: This episode was recorded in the weeks just before Rush's 2026 Tour Announcement.In this episode:Tom’s fourth-grade brush with Caress of Steel and how Grace Under Pressure Live at Maple Leaf Gardens made him a liferWhy he chose Rush over Van Halen (and how that changed everything)From basement bands to Sonic Curators — the road to playing every instrument (sometimes in one night)Cracking open the legendary Cygnus X-1 Xanabrew — yes, it pairs nicely with red wine tones and Rush talkThe global Rush community — 20 years of RushCon, Rush Fest Scotland, and finding “his people” across continentsTHIS WEEK’S SONGThe Wheel spins up Wish Them Well — a track about letting go, moving forward, and keeping your focus on what really matters — just like Tom’s own musical journey.SCHATZ'S SCRATCH LIST - RUSH TRIBUTE BANDSScratch 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!)GO BONELESSCertified boneless in the state of Ohio by the Boneless Podcasting Network. Go Boneless. Boneless Makes a Better Podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chaz and Schatz go live to tape and gather the first gathering of The Contagion Collective to process the biggest moment in Rush fandom since R40 — Geddy and Alex’s surprise announcement that Rush is returning to the stage.Yep. You read that right. Rush. Is. Back.With special guests Tim Starace (YYNOT), Eric Wirsing (Solar Federation), Mary Jo Plews (RushCon), Andy Faulkner (Author, Finding My Way), Martin “Tigre” Urionaguena (Dorothy from Argentina), Steve "Knee" Brown (Moving Pictures UK), and Paul Beaulieu (RushFest Canada), this impromptu global episode captures the shock, joy, disbelief, and tears that rippled through the fanbase the moment the news dropped.The gang breaks down the official statement, the new lineup (yes — a female powerhouse drummer, Anika Nilles!), and what it means for the community, the legacy, and the spirit of Neil Peart.In This Episode:🚨 The moment Geddy and Alex say it out loud: “We’re going back on tour.”🥁 Meet Anika Nilles — the “irreplaceable replacement” whose playing reignited their spark.🎹 Talk of adding a keyboard player to free up Geddy for more bass — and maybe even some dance routines?!💔 Reflection on Neil’s memory and how every show will include a tribute segment to the Professor.🌎 First reactions from across the Rush universe — North America, the UK, South America, and beyond.🎟️ Breakdown of announced tour stops — LA, Toronto, Cleveland, New York — and will there be more?💬 Emotional insights from Donna Halper’s backstage story: Geddy hadn’t even told all his family yet.🎸 Tim and Eric share why this feels more like a celebration than a comeback.❤️ The Rush community unites: tribute musicians, podcasters, superfans — all celebrating the music’s return.🎉 And yes… consensus achieved: Rush officially joins Schatz’s Scratch List as the ultimate tribute band to themselves.It’s joy. It’s disbelief. It’s community.After 11 years since the final curtain call, the band that taught us to “roll the bones” and “face up” has decided to do it again.The Macallan 40 is in order...Raise your glasses, fellow travelers — the spirit of Rush lives on, the invisible airwaves crackle with life tonight!SCHATZ'S SCRATCH LIST - RUSH TRIBUTE BANDSScratch 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!)GO BONELESSCertified boneless in the state of Ohio by the Boneless Podcasting Network. Go Boneless. Boneless Makes a Better Podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Chaz and Schatz sit down with Chris Smith — drummer, sound engineer, lighting guru, and one of the unsung heroes of the Northern Colorado music scene. Known as “The Fader Monkey” for his wizardry behind the board, Chris has worked with the area’s best tribute acts, including Rush Archives, El Loco Fandango (ZZ Top), Smokin’ (Boston), and Project Foreigner. He’s the guy who helps make everyone sound like pros and not like they're playing through a wet bag of Doritos.Chris takes us through his Rush origin story, the evolution of his career, and what keeps the spirit of the band alive across countless stages — from Red Rocks to local clubs that refuse to die quietly.In This Episode:🎧 How Closer to the Heart on a job site boombox started a lifelong Rush addiction.🥁 The moment Tom Sawyer made him pick up drumsticks and never put them down.🎚️ What it takes to run sound and lights for six tribute bands — and still have hearing left.🏔️ The thriving Northern Colorado tribute scene: Rush Archives, ZZ Top, Boston, Foreigner, and more.🎤 Favorite Rush live memories from the R30 and R40 tours at Red Rocks and Pepsi Center.⚙️ Gear talk: his PDP maple kit, lighting rigs, and how local venues leveled up their production game.It’s a deep cut of a conversation — part love letter to the local music community, part salute to the Professor, and 100% Rush fandom turned up to eleven. Grab a drink, spin the wheel, and roll those bones with us!The wheel gives us Face Up off 1991'2 Roll The Bones. A deep cut that makes the guys wax nostalgic for the entire album, but is it Living in the Limelight? Tune in to find out! SCHATZ'S SCRATCH LIST - RUSH TRIBUTE BANDSScratch 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!)GO BONELESSCertified boneless in the state of Ohio by the Boneless Podcasting Network. Go Boneless. Boneless Makes a Better Podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 83 — Jacob Moon: Subdivisions on the Rooftop, Stories from Massey HallChaz & Schatz sit down with the pride of Hamilton, Ontario — singer-songwriter and looping wizard Jacob Moon. Known for his jaw-dropping rooftop performance of Subdivisions and his unforgettable rendition of Red Sector A at RUSHFest Canada 2025, Jacob shares the inside stories of how Rush’s music shaped his career and how his versions ended up moving Rush themselves.In this episode:🎶 Jacob’s first Rush encounter in a shag-carpeted basement and why A Farewell to Kings lit the fire🎸 How his 2008 rooftop Subdivisions cover blew up on YouTube — and got the thumbs-up from Geddy, Alex, and Neil🥁 Playing Subdivisions at the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame — and what Neil Peart told him about the song’s “singer-songwriter” roots🎤 The behind-the-scenes of Red Sector A at Massey Hall with Adi, Nina, and a violin that survived Dachau🍁 Why Rush’s fan community is unlike any other — and how Jacob’s one-man-band looping has become a spiritual, communal act👉 THIS WEEK’S SONGThe Wheel spins up Dog Years — a playful, offbeat anthem that reminds us how quickly time races by.SCHATZ'S SCRATCH LIST - RUSH TRIBUTE BANDSScratch 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!)GO BONELESSCertified boneless in the state of Ohio by the Boneless Podcasting Network. Go Boneless. Boneless Makes a Better Podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.