The three individuals that make up the entity we know as Rush, Geddy Lee, Alex Lifeson and Neil Peart, could not be more different but they share deeply held aspirations for their music. Against the odds Rush have retained the same line-up since 1974, a tribute to the humility, humour and friendship that has enabled the trio to ride out the difficulties that face every band, and helped the players through the most severe personal traumas. In the chemical reaction that is Rush, these personal qualities were not so much the catalyst, for the reaction was already there; rather, the tempering agent that has ensured a slow and steady effervescence.<BR><BR>Rush are more than a phenomenon. They are a statement, which runs something like this: `Music journalists, you were wrong'; `Observers of mainstream culture, you were wront'; `By complaining about the music, the screeching vocals, the supposed political statements, you did your industry a disservice'; `You felt you could dictate what people listened to, and you failed'.<BR><BR>The Canadian trio behind such wildly diverse music as concept albums 2112 and Hemispheres and radio-friendly singles `Spirit of Radio' and `Closer to the Heart' have endured and, touring sold-out arenas across the globe as part of their 30th anniversary tour, continue to confound their critics, and prove to their committed international army of fans that they are as vital a musical force now as ever.