Alex Lifeson & Geddy Lee Discuss Rush Future

Rush members Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson appeared on the latest episode of Sound Opinions. The bassist and guitarist talked with the long running Chicago Public Radio program’s hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot about a variety of topics, perhaps most importantly touching on the future of their iconic band.

As noted by the Rush Is A Band website, Lee and Lifeson told the hosts the band doesn’t have anything specifically planned right now, but didn’t rule out more Rush in the future after the current break they’re on ends. Lifeson hinted at writing new music, while Lee reiterated that the physical demand live touring places on drummer Neil Peart remains a challenge for the trio.

Here’s a transcription of part of chat via Rush Is A Band:

Alex: I think right now we don’t have any plans for anything. Keep in mind that we had a year and a half off after the Clockwork Angels Tour. We didn’t talk about anything to do with the band in a year and a half. I think we’re just in a stage now where we’re just kind of taking some time, reconnecting with our families and friends and pursuing some other interests, and having some fun really. I know Geddy and I love writing together. We’ve been doing it since we were young teenagers. I’d like to think that we’ll do it until we’re very old men instead of just “mostly” old men.

Geddy: For Neil it’s become too hard. And that’s a phrase he likes to use. To play for 3 hours, to play the way we feel is being “Rush” – the way Rush plays a 3-hour show that’s very complicated. That has taken its physical toll on his body. During the course of any of the last few tours he’s gone through periods that he’s having problems. Whether it’s tendonitis or whether it’s some other thing. So I think for him it’s enough. He can’t go through all that again. That’s gonna dictate obviously what performing live is going to mean for Rush. And whether that happens or not – I can’t really say at this point.

Alex: Neil’s in a great headspace now. He’s really enjoying his life and feels great. He’s spending a lot of time with his daughter and his family. And doing the things that he loves to do, with his health intact. That’s a very positive thing.

Head here to listen to the entire Sound Opinions episode, or stream it below: