Rush "Xanadu": Drums!!!

Ok, this song has been probably the most requested, for years... So, here it is... A lot of stuff going on in this one, with a lot of percussion. I use 6 different electronic setups to play the bells (from the Roland SPD-20) and I switch between them with my left foot during the song. I had trouble with the synchronization (and YT processing did something weird at the end) so it's not perfect. The performance is also not perfect but that will have to do for now! Enjoy!

[@Astrotama]

Thank you! 1- I have been playing for about 35 years, with some years off when I focussed on my studies in astrophysics ; 2- No lessons, I'm essentially self-taught, learning from friends ans watching drummers all over. I wish I had formal training; I would be a much better drummer today if I had taken lessons. 3- Singles, doubles, flams, etc. I tried to be consistent, play with confidence, and most importantly, always trying to have fun since it's really a hobby for me. Happy drumming"

[@fredclear4069]

You do more than fine!

[@PGeorge61]

Ladies and Gentlemen..... The Astrophysicist on the drum kit!!

[@9thDecibel]

I'm a guitarist, I find drums interesting but I've never been able to sit through an entire drum cover video before. This was going twelve minutes and I loved every second of it. I love Rush, I love this song, I love Neil Peart and I love you for being able to play as amazing as him. Bravo, just bravo!

[@PaulbylPaulbyl]

Wow, I remember my Social Science teacher in high school in 1982 was a Rush fan and played this on a record player in the classroom. I love the song for many reasons, but that will forever last in my mind. Your cover is awesome as usual Astrotama. I simply do not know how you do it, just a huge thanks to you.

[@scottrauth8219]

RIP Neil 🙏

[@shack8110]

Damn! I'm just a Rush fan who can't play an instrument, and I know this is 12 minutes of pure badassery.

[@Astrotama]

+yu stu ;)

[@840swed840]

+yu stu Never too late to pick up any instrument!

[@MONDO_414]

+Nick Rielsen ive been doing drums since i was 5 and now im 16. And i still cant do xanadu.

[@hugosonier8159]

i started drumming a little more than 1 year ago and im starting to work on 2112. i play a bit of iron maiden songs like dance of death, blood brothers, hallowed be thy name and a bit of the trooper. im sure you can start. its never too late

[@mr.diecastracer7450]

HEY BUDDY, I HOPE YOU ARE DOING WELL. I JUST READ YOUR REPLY COMMENT TO 'ASTROTAMA' AND I WANTED TO WISH YOU WELL WITH YOUR DRUMMING .I DON'T KNOW YOUR AGE, BUT GOOD LUCK AND KEEP PRACTICING. LEARN THE BASICS IF YOU HAVEN'T DONE SO YET. DON'T GET CAUGHT UP WITH SLOPPY AND OUT OF CONTROL PLAYING. USE PROPER TECHNIQUES, AND DON'T ALWAYS TRY TO PLAY AT 190 MPH, CAUSE THAT ISN'T WHAT DRUMMING IS ABOUT. I AM SURE THAT YOU KNOW ALL OF THIS, LOL. IF NOT, I HOPE MY SUGGESTIONS ARE HELPFUL AT THIS TIME. I LIKE TO HELP AND GIVE SOME ADVICE IF IT IS WELCOMED, BECAUSE I CARE ABOUT HELPING NEW DRUMMERS LEARN THE CRAFT OF DRUMS AND DRUMMING. WHILE LEARNING THE BASICS, PRACTICE YOUR WRIST, HANDS AND STICK CONTROL. THEN YOU CAN ADVENTURE AND EXPLORE OTHER AVENUES TO LEARN WHAT YOUR STYLE OF DRUMMING IS AND TO LEARN OTHER STYLES AS WELL. I AM 50 YRS OLD, AND HAVE BEEN PLAYING DRUMS FOR ALMOST 46 YRS. I USED TO TEACH WITH 5 HIGH SCHOOL DRUM LINES. AND TEACH PRIVATE LESSONS. I LOVE DRUMMING AND ALL I WANT TO DO IS PLAY RUSH SONGS. YOUR EMAIL CAUGHT MY EYE BECAUSE OF YOUR 1 YR OF PLAYING AND YOU ARE NOW LEARNING HOW TO PLAY 2112. HOPEFULLY YOU HAVE A HUGE DRUM KIT. LOL. IF NOT, GET SOME ROTO TOMS, [ 6,8,10 INCHES ] AND TUNE THEM UP. YOU ARE GONNA WANT AND NEED THAT HIGH PITCHED TOM TOM SOUND. I HAD A 5 PIECE BLUE SPARKLE 'SLINGERLAND' DRUM KIT IN 1980 . I DIDN'T LIKE THAT SET. IT WAS A CHEAP SLINGERLAND KIT. I HAD TO BUY THE 'ROTO'TOMS TO PLAY 'RUSH' SONGS. I DIDN'T KNOW ANY BETTER AT THAT TIME BECAUSE I DIDN'T KNOW WHAT DRUMS NEIL PEART USED. LOL. I THOUGHT THAT WAS WHAT HE HAD. GOOD LUCK, I KNOW YOU CAN DO IT MAN. I ENVY YOU BECAUSE I DIDN'T LEARN THAT SONG, [ OR ANY OTHER RUSH SONG UNTIL AFTER 10 YRS OF DRUMMING]. I LEARNED A LOT ABOUT DRUMS, DRUMMING AND MUSIC WHEN I WAS IN HIGH SCHOOL. I JOINED THE DRUM LINE, AND PLAYED DRUMS IN THE STAGE, CHOIR, AND CONCERT BANDS. I LOVE IRON MAIDEN. THEY ARE AN EXCELLENT BAND, AND I HAVE BEEN LISTENING TO THEM FOR MANY YRS AS WELL. I CAN'T DRUM TO NICKO McBRAINS' DRUMMING STYLE. HE IS AN AWESOME DRUMMER. HE IS VERY BASIC IN MY OPINION, BUT HE HAS A SPECIAL TECHNIQUE THAT I CAN'T DUPLICATE. LOL. I'M GLAD TO HEAR THAT YOU CAN PLAY THOSE IRON MAIDEN TUNES. I CAN PLAY MOST RUSH SONGS, BUT I HAVE A HARD TIME PLAYING TO 'IRON MAIDEN' SONGS. BEST WISHES MY FRIEND. I HOPE THAT SOME DAY YOU WILL KEEP ME POSTED ON HOW THINGS ARE GOING FOR YOU. I REPLIED TO 'ASTROTAMA' YESTERDAY. HE REPLIED BACK TO ME AND I WROTE HIM AGAIN EARLIER TODAY. CHECK OUT MY EMAILS TO HIM. I AM GOING TO SEND HIM ANOTHER EMAIL TONIGHT . I WANT TO GET HIS OPINIONS ABOUT USING 'EVANS' DRUM HEADS. BEST WISHES TO YOU ZaPe X. TAKE CARE. GLEN

[@StGeoRUSH619]

"Sir" Astrotama, you are without question, the best Rush cover drummer I've ever seen. I'm a keyboardist, drummer, and bass player myself, and I've been a Rush fan for over 30 years. I really have to tell you, that you are mesmerizing, and technically proficient. I rarely (if ever) see you miss. But most important, you play with heart and feeling. Xanadu has always been one of my favorites, and you really did this song justice. LOVED THE INTRO !!! Oh, and for the few that did hit the dislike button...really??!! Well done...PEACE

[@Astrotama]

George McCormick Thank you, George! I appreciate the nice words, even if I don't think I'm the best at anything. I certainly try hard to do these songs justice since this is my tribute to Neil and Rush. I don't always succeed but I usually have fun trying! ;)

[@Scorcher-nn5yy]

Astrotama No kiddin hes awesome!!!!

[@danielvasquez8830]

George McCormick. Well done

[@monavieforal]

Why don’t you two get together and find someone to play Alex and do it?

[@Matty_G157]

I'm a 44 year-old guitarist and all I play is Alex lifeson LOL I love seeing Xanadu playing to perfection this is like music porn drum Hustler

[@rjsingleton]

Wow. I'm a drummer myself and I just have to give kudos. The attention to detail here is , frankly, mind boggling. Your skill is amazing but what's not mentioned as much in the comments is the amount of detail in the percussion tones...the programming, the setup. All of it. I'm truly amazed. THIS is love for the craft.

[@ebcor6888]

I’ve listened to this song thousands of times. I don’t know how accurate you are BUT I do know you did an awesome job. Makes me appreciate the Professor even more! Excellent work sir!!! Truly, thank you!

[@Astrotama]

Thank you for watching!

[@dvision23]

As one Rush drummer to another, this is a very hard song and you nailed it. Bravo!

[@darrenengstrom3323]

I'm glad this guy is here to keep Neal's memory alive. I listen to Neal's lyrics and am inspired to be better. Neal lived his life as a way of self improvement. His books inspire me to travel. His drum videos inspire me to be a great drummer. And as a man, he inspires me to be a better Christian. Even though he was an athiest, he seemed to be what a christian should be. Thank you for your music and inspiration, Neal. You are missed. And thank you, sir, for your amazing renditions of a great drummer and a great human being. God bless.

[@topfuelfan]

Wow, .. Great job. I don' think people truely understand how many thousands of hours it takes to get to this level. I believe Neil would agree and say well done. Thanks for posting one of my favorite songs. KZbin knows I love Rush and you were on my recommended list probably because I've been watching Meytal Cohen and enjoy drum covers of my favorite band Rush. Again great job

[@PJJTremblay]

What an excellent job. Wow Thanks for all your hard work Loved the drums to Xanadu so much that I listened twice ... incredible playing

[@Mudslingr]

Can't get enough of this one ! Fantastic job ! I can't play a note of anything but I can appreciate awesome talent. It may be Neil's tune but YOU are the one playing it ! Very super fucking well done !

[@silotwenty]

Absolutely fantastic ! You have all the details, but more importantly it has the right feel. It just sounds natural. Take a bow.

[@hotkimchi5803]

How the fuck did this performance get 13 dislikes is beyond me.

[@haolejohn]

One of his bells didn't have special effects echoes after it and people are jealous turds.

[@funkyfrets]

I'm not sure why we haven't heard of this guy in a professional way.... Plus all the haters can go boil your fucking head... I can only dream to play drums like this guy

[@wreichard]

Very cool stuff! You nail the songs from RUSH dude. I have been a drummer for 42 years. Neil and Bill Bruford got me to where I am. I now work on Dream Theater and Liquid Tension Experiment.

[@Astrotama]

Thank you!

[@gradepoint]

Well, this puts my air drumming to shame.

[@jameshavlin7362]

gradepoint lol

[@paavopuumalainen5047]

XD

[@MJP_985]

just found this guys videos, but as a professional air drummer, all you really need is the tom sawyer fill, and that bit from in the air tonight, and thats 90 % of your repertoire.

[@davidargel8587]

Not just anyone plays Xanadú with such mastery.

[@mysteriouspikachuman]

Bro really is the master of all the cymbals

[@jimbo2112]

Love it! Nothing missed out here, all as the Prof would expect. A whole heap of energy going out there as well!

[@joegets2678]

Yes sir!! Mr. Astrotama. I have listened to rush for over 32 yrs. and you my man are "The Bomb"!! Keep up the hard work and never listen to the naysayers. It's truly a pleasure to watch your videos and dominate the drums.

[@Astrotama]

Joe Gets Thank you!

[@futureshock7425]

The fan blowing your hair in the beginning makes this particularity epic lol

[@Aerialistreloaded]

Another Rush fanatic who can play I dig it!

[@kevinshepherd4751]

Even if not a Rush fan how can anyone not appreciate your skills to thumb down is beyond me!

[@The1stDukeDroklar]

God I really felt that. That's the highest compliment I could pay you imo. I read on your page that you seem to have come into some recognition and I am very pleased to hear it. You deserve it. Keep it alive!

[@dave5799]

Dude... bring this back to life

[@puresexcellence]

Superb cover!! You, sir, are a beast. I can now say that I know someone who's dined on the milk of paradise.

[@duh1993]

All I have to say is DAYYYUUMMMM. Have listened to you for a while and I'm always impressed!

[@denisboudreau1165]

My friend you never cease to amaze me. I've been a a great fan of you drumming for many years.. you like the impulsion of a pulsar very amazing but you last a lot longer . As you know the Pulsar last probably 5-6 minutes before the implosion becomes the explosion. Great job.. a spirit with a vision is a dream with a mission. When you feel the part of vision the fire has made alive I know you have that instinct I know you have that drive. Obsession has to have action and your pride turns on the drive. Again thank you very much for your talent and I do watch your videos at least 10-15 times a month. Thank you very much Neil Peart for giving our astronomer and his passion and drive and the love of drumming to rush. Rush is amazing with the lyrics FYI. I love the music and instruments but it's still lyrics it makes me one of the best fans

[@Astrotama]

Haha! Thank you!

[@boboskeeper1]

“Where does he get those wonderful toys” Phenomenal performance buddy

[@Astrotama]

Thank you!

[@mikes7707]

It’s a gem of a cover. I loved it. If any constructive criticism at all, it was rushing a bit, in a few places. I only say because I think you’re so close to slaying it!! ❤

[@Exposion1]

I'm beginning to think A Farewell To Kings could truly be the greatest Rush record.

[@rickybobbytalladega]

Unbelievable! Incredibly entertaining! Excellent job! You are a supertalent!

[@kerrysmith8198]

yep I wish I was your neighbour too,awesome bro love your work

[@1983Cortex]

What a thoroughly enjoyable experience. Well done and thank you!

[@PuroMojo]

Excellent as usual, I never regret my subscription. Thanks for sharing your talent.

[@monkeyboypup]

I could watch your drumming all day!

[@jmgreenf]

There's a certain humbleness about you..and you nail it..on each video i watch of you..kudos to you!

[@hellstorms1]

Dude my mind has been blown away,and thanks for doing the intro as well,awesome work.

[@64bdchaney]

I have watched most of your drumming videos covering the "Professor" Neil Peart. Are you anything like I am thinking back that this drummer god created the most complex, layer driven percussions that were done back in the 1970's, 80's, 90's and into the 2000's. I still cannot figure out how Neil remembers all of these intense drum works and plays them today (well, now in retirement) and still maintains the masterful qualities he has accomplished. Your work demonstrates the hard work Neil put into the music of Rush. Its an honor to even play like him I am sure.

[@Astrotama]

Thank you! Don't worry: I do not play like Neil Peart, not even close, and most certainly, I do not have his genius for creating these musical yet challenging drum parts. But I'm glad you appreciate my efforts in paying tribute to this wonderful musician.

[@Narpets2112]

My favorite song of all time. You did an excellent job. Just superb!

[@freeksuout]

I love watching your vids! Excellent job man, keep it up!

[@MrJcat57126]

@Astrotama Great presentation Pierre Peart one of my favorite tunes from Rush you are the man your AWESOME !!! Mr.JCat57126

[@gideoncyrus1464]

Liked what I heard and I've heard this song a hundred times. Keep on rocking Rush

[@RoninTXBR549]

I almost forgot how much I like Xanadu. Looks like a challenging piece... Keep up the good work. Enjoyed the video very much.

[@Rengray2]

Oh! Did I hear a less-than-perfect high-hat ride @ 3:55? Looks like you have to redo this one!! Woo Hoo! *ahem* I mean...if you're around, and can do so...why not give us your latest take on this song? 😉 I know, at this point it's pure selfishness...but after 40+ years of being a Rush fan and with Neil's passing, and sifting through literally hundreds of videos of drummers and other musicians covering Rush songs...you are the one I come back to.

[@Rowdyrecords55]

Awesome job!!! A great, great cover of a truly epic piece of music! I can't tell you how much i love the intro to this song.

[@I_am_ARTBOT]

Always fun to watch. Nice job!

[@Jaysim2762]

Dude,,,very nicely done. My compliments. I really enjoyed watching you play.

[@quaderacer]

You are amazing, I enjoy every song you have covered by Rush.

[@mobiushelitime]

Man, that was the best performance other than the real deal i have seen! You nailed it brother! Thumbs up!

[@septembre2112]

this is really well done. you are awesome! great job!!!

[@paavopuumalainen5047]

Well done man, I love every second...Godspeed and thank you!

[@jameshersheysr7194]

Very well played sir.....I love the drums in this song

[@ryanschwertman2532]

My favorite Rush cover from you. Keep on rockin'!

[@steveg1185]

Dr. You Rock! Absolutely amazing - I wish I had a fraction of your talent............

[@Rendclaw]

Kudos for going from true start to finish and going balls out on all of the sounds. Awesome.

[@2112Fade2Black]

RIP Professor....Exit The Warrior....A Farewell to The King....

[@MusicTheater81]

Finally!!! I love it so much! you are amazing, Astrotama!

[@johnzsiga]

Absolutely nailed this one! Awesome job! Love this song. Rip professor!

[@tacosandfrenchfries4561]

The poster in the background brings back the 80's

[@ScottKer]

I give this two thumbs up. An honest cover of a super hard song. Well done!

[@fede170493]

This was a beautiful experience. Thank you so much for it, Astrotama. Adiós.

[@Astrotama]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@JimmyLeeVanDePutte]

I don't care what you used to perform this, just f'n sweet! Would make Neil proud! His girls would love you I am sure. God rest their souls and peace to him and you. Screw the 6 haters!

[@jbytuna]

The only word. YES. Thank you so very much. Is this Paluliwanna in disguise? Tears. Wonderful performance. The Professor himself would agree.

[@Astrotama]

Thank you.

[@RCROX]

this song simply put, is an incredible piece of music and you sir, have nailed it! I twirl my drumsticks to you...

[@Shigawire]

You sir, are an amazing drummer. Hats off. And... of course an awesome song as always. :D

[@MiicanStudios]

WOW - awesome job. Absolutely awesome

[@timwilson30]

Wow, this is really amazing. Great job, man.

[@beekeeper5424]

FANTASTIC WORK!

[@stevenskripko9101]

awesome job buddy, very very good, and a killer kit too! dont know how you can sleep at night knowing that kit is there just waiting to be played!!

[@bryco32]

Damn... You go *HAM*! You are very talented!

[@flapjackson6077]

Astro, This was the first song by Rush I learned in its entirety. Around 1980. I had a simple 5 piece set, with HH and two cymbals, but I made sure my hands were accurate, my feet were accurate, doing my best with a single bass pedal. This is an excellent cover performance! I’m 62 now, didn’t play for 30 years, then got back into it a few years ago. Trying to relearn it all these years later, the hard part isn’t necessarily remembering the fills, and nuances. It’s getting back the mental quickness and physical stamina to stay in control for more than a minute or two without getting sloppy. 😂

[@Astrotama]

Thank you! I know exactly what you mean now about getting up there in age... I'm 59 now so playing crazy Rush songs does not get any easier... :(

[@TurboPsych]

Wow ! Nice job. You nailed the song ! Excellent kit you have there. Nice execution of all the details and you pulled it off very well. I'm impressed.

[@matthewrumbel1818]

You're amazing dude. You've mastered my favorite song in the world. Thank you.

[@MrMan63]

Canadian has to be my all time favorite Rush composition. Thanks for having the guts to play along with it and taping it. Nice job, keep up the great work.

[@dkshotwell]

My favorite piece by my favorite band, and you hit it wonderfully.

[@Senna707]

Awesome work my friend. Rush forever!

[@rblco]

Excellent job on one of the most difficult in the catalog.

[@pepollito]

Great performance Amigo!. I can appreciate all the effort and hard work you have put in your rehearals. Excelente!

[@ddudioo]

I thoroughly enjoyed that. Thanks !

[@MatthewDell]

Awesome! Great song! Nice setup!

[@mkg59]

As a RUSH fan since '74, I can honestly say...you nailed it pal. Good job.

[@eskilchauhan9267]

You’re incredible man! Your stamina is outta this world. Congrats on the amazing cover and thanks for sharing :)

[@Astrotama]

Thank you for watching!

[@vrmmmm]

Wow . . . just Wow. Now I need to go watch every video from this guy! Neal would be impressed by this performance!

[@rickrasicci7040]

Amazing job! Love it!

[@rblambert]

Absolutely masterful. This is probably Neil's most complex piece. I am in awe of your commitment...

[@Astrotama]

Thank you!

[@mikeblaz]

Excellent Job. You ain't kidding "lots of stuff going on". Nice stuff..

[@unclespeedy]

For some reason, watching you play this song takes me back to Madison Square Garden, 1983 (Signals tour). I was 13 or 14. My 2nd concert ever (Tull was my first). Truly a life changing experience. I learned so much that night; lying to my parents, taking the subway late at night and so much more.... THANK YOU. Aweseome

[@Astrotama]

Thank you! The Signals tour was also my first Rush show. And I will never forget it. My friends upgraded my tickets as a gift and I was really close to the stage. The big red Tama kit... The chimes everywhere in Xanadu... Countdown and it's Columbia video... It was the first major Rush show in Quebec City and the crowd was insane. Unforgettable.

[@unclespeedy]

Astrotama And what an absolutely awesome concert. Forgot to mention that. It was actually December 1982. I still have the ticket stub. Thanks again for the stroll down memory lane.

[@danielguest7841]

Technically, signals was my first rush show or any, according to my dad. I was in the womb when he was stationed in Germany in the air Force. But I got to see them in kindergarten on the hold your fire tour then again in the 4th grade for the roll the bones tour. Amazing shows. I've should've taken the time see more. But thank God for KZbin bootlegs. I get to travel through space and time.

[@STORMCombatSystem]

Wow. Just wow. Fantastic job.

[@denisboudreau1165]

I still watch this video I watch your every move, and you're self taught. Amazing work my friend I've seen all of your work in the past you never cease to amaze me

[@Astrotama]

Thank you so much 😀

[@denisboudreau1165]

@@Astrotama thank you for your reply, all the world of stage got the undivided attention... then the stage became our entire world. Thank you for selecting the talents and your passion of Rush and Neil Peart. Your drive never cease to amaze us and your skill-set that truly became your passion, thank you for being Who You Are

[@rockerguy45]

Amazing Work!! Stunning!! Keep Up The Good Work! :)

[@johnmcdonnell706]

Absolutely Brilliant! Well done sir!

[@petemazzilli4130]

Absolutely awesome!!!

[@WalkingPez]

Lucky Day, I found another great drumming mentor!!!

[@marzzim1]

Super cool - well done man !

[@Follower_of_Christ498]

Great job man 👍🏻A true tribute to the professor.

[@Prtnoy777]

amazing as usual!

[@dleblanc343]

WOW, the chimes and bells! Impressive