Hip Hop Head Reacts To Rush - 2112 [REACTION]

[@mondoangelucci7273]

One of the great songs and stories in rock and roll history... Long live the legendary RUSH !!!!

[@paravarium]

One of the most epic stories told through music. Don't worry about long videos. prog fans have great attention spans lol :p

[@scottshields113]

And as far as I'm concerned the most epic ending of any song.

[@paravarium]

@@scottshields113 While completely understandable if it's not your cup of tea, the ending of Caligula's Horse - Graves really gets me!

[@JimJamFam]

Yes, I thoroughly enjoyed this one. This took every ounce of my attention as there was a lot going on, in a good way.

[@3beard]

Truth

[@dakohli]

@@scottshields8220 The band thought this would be their last album, but it turned out to be the album that gave them complete artistic independence from their label. And speaking of "giving the finger", watch Alex Lifeson's portion of the acceptance speech when they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Neil was incredibly articulate, as was Geddy. But Alex's was a mastercraft, every Rush fan knew what he was saying, it may have gone on a little long, but it was incredible.

[@johncook2913]

"Attention all planets of the solar federation" (7 words spoken 3 times) = 21 "We have assumed control" (4 words spoken 3 times) = 12 2112

[@jeffstockberger8456]

John Cook listened to this song a lot in the past 35 years. Never noticed that!

[@clemlowes2112]

In Neil's voice. RIP.

[@JimJamFam]

Oh wow! That's crazy1

[@revdmcspumcsb]

To put this song in context. Rush's previous album didn't do well because it wasn't radio friendly. The record company told the band that they had to create radio friendly hits or this would be their last record. What did Rush do, wrote a rock opera 20+ minute song that was a huge flip of the bird to the record company. The record companies that held a stanglehold on the industry are the priests... they had the computer, Rush didn't fit their plan... etc... The band said if we are going out, let's go out with a bang. 2112 didn't get airplay because it was too long, but the album sold like wildfire by word if mouth and because of their constant touring. One year they played over 200 concerts. After this album, they won complete artistic freedom from the record company.

[@johndavis9196]

David McGlocklin ultimately, this set Rush apart from all others. Their stance on creative freedom was unheard of at the time or since. They have always made music for themselves, if others enjoy it great.. if not, oh well! They have never been concerned with fame, fortune or conformity. There has never been another band like this, and I doubt there ever will be! ✌️☝️☝️✌️

[@glenndhorallmyxlvntx9294]

One could say “Priests of Syrinx” are the record company wanting to control everything... I am liking the way you analyze the lyrics as the song progresses. This was their “rebel” song back in the day for sure. Much like how the underground “battle rap” and “hip-hop” came from the streets and won over the crowds later on, this was Rush saying screw you to the record company and in the end winning the day.

[@Chirpysemperboy]

It continued on the break charts and, to this day, it resides permanently on the list of "songs you must hear" and has, arguably, become a cornerstone of rock.

[@stephgay876]

Ok

[@ThisTrainIsLost]

There is a video of this song that is in the form of a comic book. Search KZbin for Rush 2112 and it will be in the search results. Cool reaction, dude! You sussed out most of the story!

[@Electrohedron]

The beauty of good music is that it goes beyond the conception of the author and basic narrative; it springs new worlds in the imagination of the listener.

[@velistanisic7486]

Most Rush fans are into science fiction. And the geeks shall inherit the earth. So hearing great music, put to great stories was fantastic for us.

[@6point8esspcee68]

Imagine hearing this at 14 yrs old in 1979.....I was friggn floored. No other band quite measured up after that.

[@jasonm8017]

6point8 esspcee . You’re pretty old 😂 I was 9 in 1979. Didn’t really get on board til 1983 or so. Better late than never

[@6point8esspcee68]

@@jasonm8017 Hah! Well, thankya there, youngun! Actually, Caress Of Steel was my first taste of Rush. I picked the cassette out of a discount bin at a Ben Franklin's Five & Dime. I liked the cover art.....LOVED the album. But the first time I heard 2112....well, you know.

[@lauriivey7801]

You caught the story well - - and you did it the way we did back in the day ... no fancy comic book, just intense listening. Great reaction!! The Priests are preventing autonomy ......

[@JimJamFam]

Thank you! Yeah, I think I was mentally tired after listening through this and piecing the story together. lol The only way to listen to music if you ask me!

[@illyadmark3223]

@@JimJamFam It helps if you read the story in the liner notes that go along with it, fills in a lot of blanks.

[@Jamo-qw4xu]

When me and my friends first heard this in the later 70's we all freaked out as the tragedy unfolded. You nailed it! Well done!

[@rickmb66]

This video takes me back to my original discovery of this album 40 years ago. Sensory overload with the great music and the story. I think I literally wore the grooves down on my first vinyl of this album. I remember gathering with my other nerds friends as to the meanings in this one; pondering and discussing. Thanks for the effort.

[@klantic2]

You did an amazing job on analyzing the song for the first time. As a life long Rush fan I'm impressed.

[@Penddraig7]

Great reaction, you did a really good job of analysing it as you were listening. For a bit of background on the song... It was written by Neil Peart, the drummer, although initially he didn’t consciously connect the two, he had recently read a novel called Anthem by Ayn Rand and Neil thinks that on a subconscious level, that story must have still been playing on his mind when he wrote this song because of the similarities in the themes between the two. He was a fan of Ayn Rand and her work, she was born in Russia and was a teenager during the time when it became part of the Soviet Union, the United Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) the enemy of the US during the Cold War. Ayn left Russia and fled to the US, she went on to do many things including written books and creating a philosophical system known as Objectivism. Anyway, she write a book called Anthem which was a story about socialism, what she had experience while living in the USSR under socialist rule and there are parallels between her story and 2112. The priests of the Temple of Syrinx are basically the socialists (communists) government, the leaders of the solar federation and the person who finds the guitar etc is someone born into a socialist state. The song is basically a commentary about socialism bet set in a futuristic setting. 2112 has a piece at the beginning which is a “sample” from the classical musician Tchaikovsky’s 1812 overture. Tchaikovsky was Russian and the 1812 overture was written by him in 1880 to commemorate the successful defence of Russia against Napoleon’s army in 1812 Napoleon was French and France who gave the US the Statue of Liberty to commemorate the abolition of slavery and the Declaration of Independence etc So by having a Russian composers song about defeating France in 1812 was used as a metaphor in 2112 at the start for the socialists (Russia) defeating liberty (France) in 1812 But at the end of 2112, the enlightened ancient elder race defeated the solar federation, they are the liberators, liberty wins in the end, very much as it did at the end of USSR when in 1989 soviet states were overthrown by a wave of revolutions when ended communist rule including the tearing down of the Berlin Wall in 1989 which separated west Germany from east Germany and by 1991 the USSR completely disbanded. Nationalism and separatism liberated themselves from socialism, which is kind of still a current topic in this day and age with the UK brexit and getting their nationalist and separatist liberation from the socialist EU, you also have the issues with China and the beer bug, will this current pandemic result in cutting off China once the dust settles, Trump was already trying to liberate the US from the economic and industrial shackles as a result off being too heavily dependent of trade with China before this all kicked off, I think may more nations will be following his lead as a result of this, liberating their shackles too, bringing back industry and manufacturing to their own nations instead of getting everything made cheap in China. So in a nutshell, the song is basically saying, don’t let authoritarian dictators rule you life, stifle your freedom of expression, take away your freedoms, keep believing in yourself, never give up, when you think it will never get better, don’t kill yourself, because right around the corner could be the very thing to liberate you, everything you dreamt of could be about to become possible, you never know what’s round the corner.

[@JimJamFam]

Thank you for all of the info and for thinking I did a good job!

[@brutalbrutusTV]

@@JimJamFam If you're interested in more epic RUSH songs... The Fountain of Lamneth kzbin.info/www/bejne/g6PUqI16bM-Ap6s is a great epic story song. Also, Cygnus X-1: The Voyage kzbin.info/www/bejne/eYOskJZ8gLRlpKs and Cygnus X-1 book2: Hemispheres kzbin.info/www/bejne/e4vPeKudYrtlgKM are two epic songs from separate albums that tie into each other. The links have a storybook to help you follow the story and lyrics.

[@GaryHighFruit]

"The song is basically a commentary about socialism " No it's not. It's about an unusually oppressive government. Socialism is not much more oppressive than Capitalist USA. But the perks outweight that.

[@jasonselvaggi4427]

The song is about control and oppression of collectivism under socialism/ communism versus individualism and freedom.

[@GaryHighFruit]

@@jasonselvaggi4427 "The song is about control and oppression of collectivism under socialism/ communism" No it's NOT... because collectivism is not very oppressive. And stop conflating socialism with communism. The the person who wrote the song, Neil Peart, was 24 and just was into the idea of individualism. He later became a liberal.

[@Lerxst101]

Love the time and thought you put into this, and all your reactions. You reminded me of the first time I listened to this back in 1980 or so, sitting in my room, with the lights low, and reading/analzying the lyrics and liner notes. Then playing it over and over and over again. This album made me a Rush fan for life -- so thankful for my friends introducing this band to me.

[@rorshakks]

Good reaction. You got the concept of the song. You're one of the more thoughtful Rush reactors.

[@JimJamFam]

Thank You!

[@3beard]

Excellent reaction to 2112, James. Good synopsis at the end, and you seemed to catch on to the story with ease. I like your breakdown at the end. Rush songs are all stories that take you somewhere. Try "Red Barchetta", studio version. That tells an amazing story, that could also be a great video short. Thanks for keeping up with Rush!

[@JimJamFam]

I'm glad you liked it and "Red Barchetta" is now on my list!

[@3beard]

@@JimJamFam Thank you! I can't wait

[@dog007dog]

I believe the federation came back and took control of the priest. The grand finally (last solo) is the actual final battle. As others have said the comic strip version has the words and more to the story in it, well worth a watch on your own. But you did catch most of the story, which is quite remarkable on a first listen.

[@718rockstar]

This is how I've always heard it. The end of the song is the battle, and the planet he visited in his dream was real, the people who lived there came and took control of his system. "We have assumed control"

[@SilverFox-qr1ci]

During the Soliloquy section, Geddy utters the greatest "Oh No" in rock and roll history. I always wait for that part and get goosebumps every time I hear it. Greatest song by the greatest band! Watch the lyric video first, it's really cool.

[@ThisTrainIsLost]

Yes, our hero did kill himself. You have understood this song on first listening better than anyone I’ve ever seen. Man! You ARE good!!

[@JimJamFam]

A lot of just listening and thinking. I try not to bob my head and pretend to enjoy things. I want to understand the music. That gets me in trouble with the people who say I'm not energetic enough and with the people who say that I talk too much. LOL

[@seano2112]

congratulations, you 'get' RUSH 😎👌🤘👏

[@michaelbriefs9764]

The "Hero" of the story does find a guitar, behind a remote waterfall, and learns how to play it, over time (of course, the song shows the learning curve in a condensed way). Song IV is called "Presentation" .

[@iandrain.7277]

One of the world's most underrated bands 👍

[@JimJamFam]

Yeah, I would agree with you!

[@iandrain.7277]

@@JimJamFam are you on Xbox live

[@JimJamFam]

I am not. I was going to buy one and then they were all sold out. I haven't checked in the last couple of days.

[@iandrain.7277]

@@JimJamFam ok cool we could have interesting rush conversation

[@michaelbriefs9764]

Rush's break-out 1976 album! The disc that saved their career!

[@JimJamFam]

I'm excited to hear more of it.

[@revdmcspumcsb]

There is a great storybook version. Look up "Rush 2112 Storybook" it explains the story.

[@JimJamFam]

Nice, I will check it out.

[@jaywitt5171]

@@JimJamFam Here you go: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rWbNqKuoidaie6M

[@cano21]

Good recomendation! That really is great to read/watch when listening to this. Only Rush could come up with a song that comes with a comic!

[@emcsquare5045]

Great reaction to great music. RUSH is just brilliant on pretty much every level.

[@JimJamFam]

I'm glad you liked my reaction. I agree they are on another level.

[@christianperspective9527]

Its so fun to watch the same reaction when I had when I first heard this in 1976 when I was 15 yrs old. At the time this was brand new music - unheard of - it began the new wave. Sophisticated chords instead of A E and G. I think the story reflects the story of new wave coming to take over the old school rock and roll. The love of music. After that the songs like "old time rock and roll" "Hey hey my my rock and roll will never die" and Rush's answer? the album "A farewell to Kings"

[@snowdog5895]

What an amazing piece of music! The most impressive thing might be that it’s 44 years old!! 🤔🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🤘

[@sabrasemo7184]

Wow excellent analysis man. I've been listening to that song since it first came out and never went as deep. Damn I'm old. Great to see young people keeping this great music alive.

[@phillipgiroux2145]

Reminds me of listening on LP and constantly putting the needle back to hear a part again

[@primemoverelectrical3586]

Very impressive how you were able to get the story on the first listen without the lyrics in front of you. Awesome reaction. Keep doing more Rush. Try out "The Pass" .

[@JimJamFam]

Thank you I appreciate that. Added "The Pass" to my list!

[@williammuntzer7374]

Great reaction. I was lucky enough to be a teenager in the 70's. I got to see Rush 4 or 5 times and was never disappointed. The first time was at the Tower Theater in Upper Darby (Philadelphia suburb) in November 1977. I was 16. They played 2112 almost in its entirety. I remember the concert like it was yesterday (12th row). The opening act was a new guy named Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. Thanks for the memory.

[@michaelbriefs9764]

There haven't been movies made but there is a Comic Strip-video that goes along with the music, showing the lyrics. Cool as heck!

[@JimJamFam]

I will check it out.

[@motodork]

In 1976 this is the song that gave them their musical autonomy.

[@andyandalex]

AWESOME video man!! You on your first listen honestly walked me through any gaps in understanding I had regarding the plot of the song! Fantastic reaction friend. Try Limelight if you haven’t heard that one already! - Andy 😎

[@paulizard4292]

That lead guitar bit in Overture where you go. "ooh, nice" is from Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture.

[@Bass17yl]

Paul Izard I’ve seen so many reactions to 2112, and no reactor has ever noticed this neat little Easter egg Alex threw in. What has happened to classical education?

[@paulizard4292]

@@Bass17yl Idk what's happened to education. The little snippet is, obviously, sped up to fit 2112 Overture but is still recognisable.

[@Bass17yl]

Paul Izard It even has the cannon fire!

[@JimJamFam]

I'm going to have to listen to that again. I've gone to see that at the St. Louis symphony.

[@JimJamFam]

I've been to the symphony and heard/listened/seen this, but I am really bad at name that tune. lol

[@abraboazul]

Your anslysis of the lyrics are accurate and precise. Thanks for reacting to this marvelous band. Welcome to the brotherhood.

[@MistinIndia]

GREAT reaction video. You really hit home with the analyzis. I've watched many KZbinrs and I really liked your video! Great channel!

[@ThisTrainIsLost]

As I watch this you have 2.39k subscribers so, my man, you is doing good. Congratulations!! (I saw this song premiered live so I am not going to pollute it with my opinions.)

[@Steve_Blackwood]

I’m impressed with the way you picked up the story while in your first listening of it, and without the lyrics in front of you (I assume). Nice job! Keep the Rush reactions coming.

[@JimJamFam]

Thank you! Yup, first listen and no lyrics. I will definitely keep up Rush reactions!

[@LS-uv9gg]

Great reaction, thank you

[@JimJamFam]

Thanks for watching!

[@ThisTrainIsLost]

I think that the music of the priests is muzak.

[@darrengillesdarrengilles8336]

Each Rush song is a sonic thread in a beautiful musical tapestry which takes a lifetime of devoted listening, to enable you to see. The tapestry is rich, complex, beautiful, impossible but yet for some of us, there it is, and we are forever gifted by the majesty, magnificence and sonic brilliance of Rush. RIP Neil / I miss you, Darren

[@uoabigaillevey]

Thank you for taking the time to listen to this epic song. You did very well for a first listen. Interesting piece of information for you.. the radio version of this song is generally just the first 3 parts.. ending with the 'Temple of Syrinx' before he finds the guitar. Rarely did they play the full version on the radio. Truly a crime, imo.

[@JimJamFam]

Yeah that's crazy! You have to have the ending.

[@michaelbriefs9764]

James, you were spot on with your interpretation, for the most part! Great reaction!

[@jeffvomero1242]

Great studio version and its even better live. Love playing this song with my interpretation of the drumming (I am not Neil Peart lol). Just an amazing story line and musicianship. Many time signatures played with perfection.

[@homerwolf6047]

Great to see good music being discovered and appreciated. Have seen every Rush tour since Hemispheres. Please try The Necromancer. Another multi part classic

[@JimJamFam]

That's cool that you got to see them several time! I added Necromancer to my list.

[@OriginalMergatroid]

@@JimJamFam I would suggest the studio version. I have never seen a recorded live version that does it justice.

[@julesmac]

Close yer eyes, turn out the lights and crrrrank it..lol

[@michaelbriefs9764]

You've got it, James! Part V is called "Oracle: The Dream".

[@JimJamFam]

I am going to have to research this one and check out the comic. There is a lot going on.

[@dakotaslim]

Saw this in concert in '77. Still get chills.

[@double_ought]

It's "All the gifts of LIFE are held within our walls." Not light. And yes... he killed himself just before the Elders' return. Tragic. Masterpiece.

[@josephrobertmah3438]

Brilliant analysis, Jim! I needed the lyric sheet to follow what was happening as it had a narrative that bridged the sections and you nailed it! As another commenter mentioned, the ending is purposely ambiguous after the protagonist kills himself. Neil has gone on record in their biopic “Beyond The Lighted Stage” that the ending represents the cavalry coming in to save the planet from the autocratic Priests, too late for our hero, it seems. The music on this is urgently and masterfully played as they expected this to be their last album before being dropped by Mercury Records. And the backdrop IS the dystopian world of Ayn Rand’s Anthem. It was fun to watch you interpret the story without the benefit is the lyric sheet or liner notes that bridge the sections. Well done!!! And congratulations on 1,000 subscribers. Subdivisions, Losing It, and The Garden are Neil Peart at his most poignant.

[@bobcarn]

When this came out, albums were on vinyl. The album cover folded open, and the lyrics and liner notes were printed on the inside. 2112 was a 7-piece story. Each section consisted of a diary entry made by the main character of the story, followed by the lyrics for that sections. Albums tended to be more of a complete experience then. You'd put the record on, and sit with the album cover reading the story and following the lyrics and looking at the art. Albums like 2112 and Thick as a Brick were amazing to sit and listen to because not only was the music good but the album covers were amazing. With 2112, the story is a futuristic tale where all the people are controlled by a totalitarian government. There is no independent music or literature, and with the exception of the leaders (the priests), nobody knows there's a better way. Our protagonist discovers an old guitar in a cave, and it opens his eyes to the what life must have been like before the priests took over, driving away from the planet all of the individuals who valued their individuality. The song ends with the return of those individuals, who finally have grown powerful enough to overthrow the oppressive government.

[@ricksmithcomedy8964]

Holy SHIT!!! I didn’t realize he killed himself at the END!!! I’ve heard it easily 100’s of times. I’m a horrible fan. Thanks for showing me the way! Loved the reaction.

[@JimJamFam]

Thank you! 🙏

[@chrisspringer2744]

Glad you could follow it! The most incredible thing is that these guys were 23-24 when they recorded it!

[@dkruitz]

One thing to keep in mind with this, it came out a year beforen Star Wars when scifi themes were very low. I was 13 when I first bought it in '78 and it blew my mind. Still a great, powerful piece of story telling.

[@kellingc]

this is called a suite. A group of songs wirh a recurring theme through them. This is the song that solidified Rush as a progressive reock group. The success of the song, and album, allowed Rush to get more creative control on there songs. There is an official snimation to go along with this.

[@michaelbriefs9764]

Yes, the Priests have the power because they have the computers and "all the gifts", within their walls. Part III is called "Discovery".

[@jeffjohnson8444]

And yes "My Life life blood spills over" - He could not live in a world without life

[@jimmcginnis8830]

Your coprehension was spot on.

[@michaelbriefs9764]

Hey James! So cool that you are listening to 2112!! Get ready for the EPIC!! :)

[@juliemanarin4127]

Fabulous album...fabulous band!

[@Alandennis1]

You have a good handle of the story. The irony at the end is our character died of grief from not being able to live in a world of self-expression and creativity...only moments before his dream came true and the Elder Race returned to free the world of the tyranny of the Priests. 2112 is an epic story with the profound musicianship that propelled Rush to a 40 year career of similar and even better works of art.

[@JimJamFam]

I'm looking forward to their other stuff!

[@iandrain.7277]

Well said Alan

[@jeffhalvorsen5974]

You see at a certain point he was done talking to the Priest and they just went to shredding. Good stuff man , and l like the hat. Jeff from K.C. Mo. and I subscribe. Be well.

[@michaelbriefs9764]

James, 2112 is a concept album, a Rock Opera, that tells one story over one side of an album. It's broken out into 7 parts. The first song is called "Overture" and it is an instrumental that is a medley of many of the themes you hear in the rest of the album (just like a Classical piece might use). Part II is called "Temples of Syrinx" and you meet "The Priests" of the Temple. They are in power yes....and not very nice.

[@JimJamFam]

I'm going to have to listen to the whole thing!

[@williampatterson5067]

The story is based on the book " Anthem" written by Ayn Rand. They replaced parts of the story with their own about finding a guitar of past technology. They live in a post apocalyptic world. Neil Peart the drummer (rip) wrote all their lyrics and Ayn Rand was a huge influence to him.

[@OriginalMergatroid]

This is one that the lyrics are really required reading for. It can be hard to understand him at times, but the story is fantastic: I. Overture {world blows up} “And the meek shall inherit the earth.” II. Temples of Syrinx “…The massive grey walls of the Temples rise from the Heart of every Federation city. I have always been awed by them, to think that every single facet of every life is regulated and directed from within! Our books, our music, our work and play are all looked after by the benevolent wisdom of the priests…” We’ve taken care of everything The words you read The songs you sing The pictures that give pleasure To your eye One for all and all for one Work together Common sons Never need to wonder How or why We are the Priests Of the Temples of Syrinx Our great computers Fill the hallowed halls We are the Priests Of the Temples of Syrinx All the gifts of life Are held within our walls Look around this world we made Equality Our stock in trade Come and join the Brotherhood Of Man What a nice contented world Let the banners Be unfurled Hold the Red Star proudly High in hand. III. Discovery “…Behind my beloved waterfall, in the little room that was hidden beneath the cave, I found it. I brushed away the dust of the years, and picked it up, holding it reverently in my hands. I had no idea what it might be, but it was beautiful…” “…I learned to lay my fingers across the wires, and to turn the keys to make them sound differently. As I struck the wires with my other hand, I produced my first harmonious sounds, and soon my own music! How different it could be from the music of the Temples! I can’t wait to tell the priests about it! …” What can this strange device be? When I touch it, it gives forth a sound It’s got wires that vibrate, and give music What can this thing be that I found? See how it sings like a sad heart And joyously screams out its pain Sounds that build high like a mountain Or notes that fall gently, like rain. I can’t wait to share this new wonder The people will all see its light Let them all make their own music The Priests praise my name on this night. IV. Presentation “…In the sudden silence as I finished playing, I looked up to a circle of grim, expressionless faces. Father Brown rose to his feet, and his somnolent voice echoed throughout the silent Temple Hall…” “…Instead of the grateful joy that I expected, they were words of quiet rejection! Instead of praise, sullen dismissal. I watched in shock and horror as Father Brown ground my precious instrument to splinters beneath his feet…” I know it’s most unusual To come before you so But I’ve found an ancient miracle I thought that you should know Listen to my music And hear what it can do There’s something here as strong as life I know that it will reach you. The Priests: Yes, we know It’s nothing new It’s just a waste of time We have no need for ancient ways Our world is doing fine Another toy That helped destroy The elder race of man Forget about your silly whim It doesn’t fit the plan I can’t believe you’re saying These things just can’t be true Our world could use this beauty Just think what we might do The Priests: Don’t annoy us further We have our work to do. Just think about the average What use have they for you? V. Oracle: The Dream “…I guess it was a dream, but even now it all seems so vivid to me. Clearly yet I see the beckoning hand of the oracle as he stood at the summit of the staircase…” “…I see still the incredible beauty of the sculptured cities, and the pure spirit of man revealed in the lives and works of this world. I was overwhelmed by both wonder and understanding as I saw a completely different way to life, a way that had been crushed by the Federation long ago. I saw now how meaningless life had become with the loss of all these things…” I wandered home though the silent streets And fell into a fitful sleep Escape to realms beyond the night Dream - can’t you show me the light I stand atop a spiral stair An oracle confronts me there He leads me on, light years away Through astral nights, galactic days I see the works of gifted hands Grace this strange and wondrous land I see the hand of man arise With hungry mind and open eyes They left the planet long ago The elder race still learn and grow Their power grows with purpose strong To claim the home where they belong Home to tear the Temples down Home to change - VI. Soliloquy “…I have not left this cave for days now, it has become my last refuge in my total despair. I have only the music of the waterfall to comfort me now. I can no longer live under the control of the Federation, but there is no other place to go. My last hope is that with my death I may pass into the world of my dream, and know peace at last…” The sleep is still in my eyes The dream is still in my head I heave a sigh, and sadly smile And lie a while in bed I wish that it might come to pass Not fade like all my dreams Just think of what my life might be In a world like I have seen I don’t think I can carry on This cold and empty life My spirits are low, in the depths of despair My lifeblood Spills over…. VII. The Grand Finale {The Elder Race comes and kicks the Priests butts:} Attention all Planets of the Solar Federation Attention all Planets of the Solar Federation Attention all Planets of the Solar Federation We have assumed control. We have assumed control. We have assumed control. Thanks to Rush.com

[@JimJamFam]

Thanks for the lyrics. I really appreciate them!

[@paulgarcia1566]

James I've always thought the exploded sound was the ending of the current world and the begging of the story of how the future world came to be.

[@JimJamFam]

Absolutely could be!

[@ThisTrainIsLost]

Note: when you have a line like, “let them make their own music,” it implies that there is music but it doesn’t come from the people.

[@Death_Cube_J]

Great reaction and interpretation, James! Congrats on 1000 subscribers! You've now experienced truly classic Rush (from 1976)!!! Eventually you'll have to react to other classics, like "Working Man," "Anthem," "By-Tor and the Snow Dog" (my favorite Rush song), "Bastille Day," and "Passage to Bangkok," but there are so many other good choices from later periods as well. By the way, Rolling Stone ranked Alex Lifeson at #98 on its list of greatest guitarists. I think he deserves a little more respect, don't you? One other thing: "hallowed halls," not "hollowed walls."

[@NoLegalPlunder]

Neil, the drummer who also wrote the lyrics, was influenced by Ayn Rand back in the day. She came from Russia when they were under an extreme totalitarian dictatorship. She understandably railed against the authoritarian state in her novels. They even have a song called Anthem, which is the name of one of her books.

[@JimJamFam]

I didn't realize that. I know who she is.

[@christinerobinson548]

Our great computers fill our hallowed halls. In a way, your attempting to understand all at once is ruining the experience for you. These songs took a whole summer of enjoyment to learn. I didn't attempt to understand it, just enjoyed, and let the learning take it's on pace.

[@johncook2913]

Thanks for reacting to this masterpiece. Its interesting seeing you discover the meaning of each section and then summarize it in the end. You did a good job in figuiring it out. Please check out the lyrics and liner notes they will add to your understanding. There is also a graphic storyboard of this on the youtube. If you liked this you will also enjoy Hemispheres.

[@mscottsimon]

Really enjoyed hearing you work through this and your expression of appreciation during the guitar solo in Presentation. Sub! Cygnus X-1 Book 2 next! (Edit: spelling)

[@cheesefrog646]

The song is loosely based on the book "The Anthem" by Ayn Rand, who Neil Peart was really into for awhile. Her "philosophy" is pretty sketchy, to be generous, but she definitely had some cool ideas scattered away in there, and, hey if Neil dug her that's gotta be something. I've watched many "reaction" videos to 2112, but you were the first one to actually analyze the content rather than the superficial (but awesome) musicianship, and I am grateful!

[@chipsfalling8625]

it is a song about the puppet master's future and the battles that are still waging. Some, have been around since the beginning and can be described as... grizzled. "did they not have music there " .. consider the indescribable beauty in literary or musical accomplishment that made it's way our of Russia and that that came out the the Soviet Era. This is the same in illustration. We are in the west are in the same boat as the pre-soviet era folks, as we stand.

[@dakohli]

Very nice reaction. Not over the top, but honest.

[@nodrush80]

Yep, killed himself just before the elders came back. Thats Rush, brilliant, the complete package.

[@rileysretirement-road3998]

Stunned by your accurate assessment on your first listen. Well done... would love to hear you analyze, "Roads To Madness" by Queensryche. 9 plus minutes of greatness

[@gregcormier2379]

James that can be a difficult song to interpret on a first listen without seeing the 2112 storybook which is a comic book representation of the story including lyrics. You got the basic idea. Futuristic world where music is outlawed by the priests who control everything.The protagonist discovers a guitar in the cave and tries to convince the priests for it's need. He is rejected has a dream of a world where music is allowed and decides he doesn't tpo live in a world without it. There is a rebellion and the priests are overthrown. This song was the breakthrough for them and gave them their independence from the record label.

[@JimJamFam]

I'm glad the song gave them their independence from the label. Kind of fitting since it seems that happened at the end of the song!

[@firepraise510]

2112 is the no compromise, Middle finger reaction To their record company That forever put the industry on notice! The Temples of Syrinx ironically Describes the music industry of today. You have to read The Professor's lyrics to this story To fully understand the song. 2112 is a classic rock opera In which the story unfolds In the future of today. Repeated listens only deepens your appreciation towards musical integrity while Increasing your common sense intellect, Just the same.

[@ViciousAlienKlown]

There's always people outside those walls.

[@carlbusque1856]

At 5:40 ish mark, at least 5 guitars, love it!

[@bigham1jb]

3 piece band. 1 bass 1 drummer 1 guitarist.

[@mikebell2112]

The priests ground his guitar to splinters under their feet after saying it doesn't fit the plan just before the solo. I believe the screaming guitar is such betrayal and the thing being destroyed. The echoing guitar after that is probably the memory of the guitar and then he had nothing to live for. The bluesy solo after the dream is his despair and the final section with the soloing cutting in on it is the elders returning. Somehow the priests evicted them (us) from the solar system so that's why they needed to come back. Perhaps the priests, the meek, were able to take over by making people dependant on their technology, the gifts of life. The part about the guitar being destroyed was from the album liner notes.

[@susanmaggiora4800]

We’ve taken care of everything The words you read The songs you sing The pictures that give pleasure to your eye It’s one for all All for one We work together Common sons Never need to wonder how or why We are the priests of the temples of Syrinx

[@theaubad1006]

The front doors of cern are built exactly on apolloyons temple.They have assumed control

[@jeffjohnson8444]

Based upon your reaction to this you owe it to yourself to listen to their next great epic tale. Cygnus X1 Book 1 (A Farewell To Kings) and Cygnus X1 Book 2 (Hemispheres). It will impress you.

[@m.ericwatson968]

Cool reaction video, very astute listening and deciphering of the lyrics, it's their magunum opus for certain. The story about the band coming up with it and giving it to their record label is a great story too, the theme becomes an analogy of sorts. And this album is where thier graphic logo or sigil was introduced; the starman at odds with the red star of the solar federation. Not gonna suggest anything, just so much Rush it's vast, just pick any song and we'll be here to check it out and see what you think -peace out!

[@JimJamFam]

Thanks man. I definitely have a lot on my list to checkout.

[@SteveSlack-zn7hz]

Yep, it's a tragedy. The guy kills himself in despair right before the elders return to save everyone from the tyranny of the priests. I have an additional theory that the elders heard his guitar solo as a beacon and knew it was time to return, making the protagonist a martyr/hero figure.

[@abraboazul]

Most of the important coments have been told about this song. I would like to suggest a very skillfull song full of transitions just like RUSH use to do, almost nobody never requests THE CAMERA EYE. I am sure youre going to appreciate it quite a Lot. Please do.

[@pxlmvr7]

Now you have to do THE OTHER SIDE of the album! It's equally great!

[@ThisTrainIsLost]

Btw, you could have chosen to go with the lyric video. Unfortunately that would not have provided you with a connection with “Syrinx” (a late 60’s to early 70’s Toronto band) nor with the syrinx that is a musical instrument in a sci-fi novel called “Nova” by Samuel R. Delany, a master of the field. Your plot guesses are pretty on target. Once again, congratulations! Find the graphic novel video of this song. I believe that you would enjoy it.

[@geologic740]

Body Rush.com, their official website. Under discography you'll find liner notes which include stories and lyrics to fill you in on the complete stories. It especially helps with the 2112 main track.

[@coffeediver]

Love it, "I think he killed himself... Damn".

[@bigtoonz8467]

I think your goal should be 2112...great job...thanks

[@poppydogz]

Hemesphere's next dude, best Rush song ever and a few others lol

[@michaelbriefs9764]

NOOO!!! Don't STOP!! OH Damn!! haha

[@jeffjohnson8444]

The Priests were the Authoritarian rulers of their world

[@johncrossley-hall9366]

Wait till you hear La Villa Strangiato LOL

[@TknoloGee]

Personally I was always in doubt about the finale. There is some kind of war or rebellion near the end but the last line of text "We have assumed control", who is "we", the rebels or the priests? That's how a good novel ends, questions remain. Good review tough for a first time listener, rock on JimJam Fam!

[@seanmoore1570]

Check out TheTrees, and Wich Hunt by Rush. Both great songs