11 Underrated Rush Songs: Songs You Missed

Hey there, fellow music enthusiasts! It’s TBone here from Level Tunes, your go-to DJ and music aficionado. Today, I’m super excited to share something special with all of you – a list of 11 Underrated Rush Songs.

As a die-hard fan of Rush, I’ve always been mesmerized by their extraordinary talent and the way they blend intricate musicianship with compelling lyrics.

But let’s face it, some of their gems often fly under the radar.

That’s why I’ve decided to dive deep into their discography and pick out these underrated tracks. Whether you’re a long-time Rush fan or just getting into their music, these songs showcase the band’s versatility and are sure to surprise you with their depth and creativity.

So, grab your headphones, and let’s embark on this musical journey together!

Here are the Underrated Rush songs that you can check out:

List Of Underrated Rush Songs

Underrated Rush songs in a list format:

“The Analog Kid”

From the album Signals (1982, Mercury Records), “The Analog Kid” is a Rush song that often gets overshadowed by more prominent tracks. Authored primarily by bassist and lead vocalist Geddy Lee, this song is a hidden gem. Its energetic tempo and Lee’s compelling vocals, combined with Alex Lifeson’s masterful guitar riffs and Neil Peart’s dynamic drumming, create a vibrant soundscape. The lyrics, brimming with nostalgia and youthful yearning, resonate deeply. I chose this song for its ability to transport listeners back to their own “analog” days, reminding us of the bittersweetness of growing up.

“Entre Nous”

Featured on the album Permanent Waves (1980, Mercury Records), “Entre Nous” is a testament to Rush’s lyrical depth. Written by Neil Peart, the song explores the complexities of relationships and individuality. What makes this track stand out is its blend of philosophical lyrics with a catchy melody. Geddy Lee’s expressive voice and Lifeson’s clean guitar work add layers of emotion. This song is a pick for those who appreciate Rush’s introspective side, offering a different flavor from their usual high-octane tracks.

“Vital Signs”

Closing the album Moving Pictures (1981, Mercury Records), “Vital Signs” is an underrated masterpiece. Combining reggae rhythms with Rush’s signature progressive rock sound, this track showcases the band’s willingness to experiment. Geddy Lee’s pulsating basslines and Lifeson’s echoing guitar create a hypnotic effect. Peart’s lyrics, touching on the theme of human adaptability, are thought-provoking. I love this song for its unique sound and its reflection on the human condition, making it a must-listen for any music lover.

“Losing It”

From the album Signals (1982, Mercury Records), “Losing It” is a poignant and beautifully crafted song. The inclusion of Ben Mink on electric violin adds a haunting dimension to the track. Peart’s lyrics, dealing with the loss of artistic prowess, are deeply moving. The combination of Lee’s somber vocals and Lifeson’s understated guitar work makes this song a standout. Its emotional depth and musical sophistication are why I believe it deserves more recognition.

“Kid Gloves”

“Kid Gloves” from Grace Under Pressure (1984, Mercury Records) is a showcase of Rush’s technical proficiency. The song, primarily authored by Lifeson, features intricate guitar work and Lee’s dynamic bass playing. Peart’s drumming, as always, is precise and inventive. The lyrics, exploring the challenges of maturing and facing life’s hardships, are relatable. I chose this song for its energetic rhythm and the way it captures the spirit of perseverance.

“Available Light”

Ending the album Presto (1989, Atlantic Records), “Available Light” is a hidden treasure. This song, written by Geddy Lee and Neil Peart, features some of Lee’s most powerful vocal performances. The piano-driven melody, combined with Lifeson’s soaring guitar solos, creates an uplifting atmosphere. Peart’s introspective lyrics about seeking truth and beauty add depth. I love this song for its inspirational message and its showcase of the band’s musical evolution.

“Emotion Detector”

From Power Windows (1985, Mercury Records), “Emotion Detector” dives into the complexities of emotional vulnerability. Peart’s insightful lyrics, paired with Lee’s emotive singing and Lifeson’s melodious guitar lines, make this track a profound listening experience. The song’s exploration of human connections and the fear of exposing one’s true feelings is something that resonates deeply. I included it for its lyrical brilliance and the emotional impact it delivers.

“The Wreckers”

“The Wreckers,” from the album Clockwork Angels (2012, Anthem Records), stands out for its melodic approach and storytelling. This track, penned by Peart, delves into the theme of hope amidst adversity. The combination of Lee’s clear vocals and Lifeson’s vibrant guitar work creates a hopeful yet melancholic mood. The song’s message about the unpredictability of life and the importance of perseverance is why I find it so compelling.

“Red Sector A”

Featured on Grace Under Pressure (1984, Mercury Records), “Red Sector A” offers a stark yet powerful perspective on human suffering and resilience. The song, inspired by Lee’s mother’s experiences during the Holocaust, is hauntingly evocative. The synthesizer-driven track, combined with Lifeson’s piercing guitar and Peart’s intense drumming, creates an atmosphere of desperation and hope. I chose this song for its historical significance and its emotional power.

“Cut to the Chase”

“Cut to the Chase,” from Counterparts (1993, Atlantic Records), is a hard-hitting track that showcases Rush’s rock prowess. Written by Peart, the song features aggressive guitar riffs from Lifeson and a strong rhythmic foundation laid by Lee and Peart. The direct and introspective lyrics discuss facing reality and moving forward. I appreciate this song for its straightforward approach and its motivational message, making it a standout track in Rush’s discography.

“Witch Hunt”

Part of the album Moving Pictures (1981, Mercury Records), “Witch Hunt” is a song that delves into the theme of mob mentality and societal fears. Its ominous tone, set by Lifeson’s eerie guitar and Lee’s haunting vocals, is complemented by Peart’s thought-provoking lyrics. The song’s exploration of human behavior and the dangers of groupthink make it both relevant and powerful. I included “Witch Hunt” for its timeless message and its atmospheric composition, showcasing Rush’s ability to create music that resonates on multiple levels.

Fun Facts: Underrated Rush Songs

“The Analog Kid”

• Fun Fact: The high-energy vibe of “The Analog Kid” was a deliberate contrast to the more synthesizer-heavy tracks on the Signals album. Rush wanted to maintain a balance between their traditional rock roots and their new electronic explorations, and this song perfectly embodies that fusion.

“Entre Nous”

• Fun Fact: “Entre Nous,” French for “Between Us,” reflects Neil Peart’s fascination with exploring human relationships and connections. The song stands out for its philosophical depth, a characteristic Peart was renowned for in his songwriting.

“Vital Signs”

• Fun Fact: Rush’s foray into reggae rhythms with “Vital Signs” was seen as a bold move, showcasing the band’s versatility and willingness to experiment with different musical styles. This song paved the way for further stylistic experiments in their subsequent albums.

“Losing It”

• Fun Fact: The inclusion of an electric violin in “Losing It” was a unique choice for Rush. Ben Mink, who played the violin on this track, added a distinct texture to the song, enhancing its melancholic and introspective mood.

“Kid Gloves”

• Fun Fact: “Kid Gloves” is noted for its complex guitar work, and it’s rumored that Alex Lifeson found this song particularly challenging to play live. Its intricate riffs and rhythms make it a standout track for guitar enthusiasts.

“Available Light”

• Fun Fact: “Available Light” is often praised for its poetic lyrics and was one of the first Rush songs to feature extensive piano use, played by Geddy Lee. This marked a shift in the band’s sound, incorporating more varied instrumentation.

“Emotion Detector”

• Fun Fact: Despite being a fan favorite, “Emotion Detector” was rarely played live. Many Rush fans consider it an underappreciated classic due to its complex arrangement and deep emotional content.

“The Wreckers”

• Fun Fact: “The Wreckers” is one of the few Rush songs that delves into a more traditional storytelling format. The maritime imagery in the lyrics was inspired by historical tales of ships being lured onto rocks by false lights, a metaphor for deception and betrayal.

“Red Sector A”

• Fun Fact: Geddy Lee’s emotional connection to “Red Sector A” is profound, as the lyrics were influenced by his mother’s experiences as a Holocaust survivor. The song is a powerful tribute to resilience in the face of unimaginable adversity.

“Cut to the Chase”

• Fun Fact: “Cut to the Chase” is known for its straightforward, hard-rocking sound, a departure from the more complex compositions typical of Rush. This track is often cited as an example of the band’s ability to create impactful music with a more direct approach.

“Witch Hunt”

• Fun Fact: Part of Rush’s “Fear” series, “Witch Hunt” explores the theme of fear and its impact on society. The eerie atmosphere of the song was enhanced by recording the mob sounds outside Le Studio in Quebec during a cold winter night, adding to its authenticity and mood.

And there you have it, folks – a journey through the lesser-known but equally remarkable tracks of Rush. These songs are a testament to the band’s diverse musical prowess and lyrical depth. I hope you’ve enjoyed discovering these hidden treasures as much as I have. Keep rocking and exploring the vast universe of music!

Thanks for reading.

TBone