Learn to Play Rush

One of rock music’s most iconic and enduring bands, Rush, has offered the world a masterclass in progressive rock with their intricate compositions, high-level musicianship, and lyrical depth. Central to their sound is the peerless guitar work of Alex Lifeson, a true master of the six strings. Now, with LickLibrary’s “Learn To Play Rush”, you have the opportunity to delve deep into some of the band’s most celebrated tracks with tutor Danny Gill, unlocking the secrets behind Lifeson’s techniques, scales, and solos.

The Spirit Of Radio
The opening track from their 1980 album, ‘Permanent Waves’, “The Spirit of Radio” stands as a testament to Lifeson’s ability to mix complex arpeggios with powerful chord progressions. The song employs a mix of major and minor scales, setting the stage for a sonic journey. The guitar solo in this track showcases Lifeson’s fondness for syncopated rhythms and his impeccable timing.

Limelight
From the famed ‘Moving Pictures’ album, “Limelight” presents a more introspective side of Rush. Lifeson’s guitar scales set the tone, with melodic runs punctuated by power chords. The solo here demonstrates his command over sustain, letting notes ring out with emotion, while also incorporating some deftly executed string bending.

YYZ
An instrumental masterpiece, “YYZ” is a true showcase of Rush’s musicianship. Lifeson employs a wide range of scales, from pentatonic to Mixolydian. The track contains a bevy of techniques, including rapid alternate picking, legato runs, and tapped harmonics. Its rhythmic complexity, coupled with a dynamic guitar solo, highlights Lifeson’s unparalleled versatility.

Tom Sawyer
Another classic from ‘Moving Pictures’, “Tom Sawyer” starts with a haunting synthesizer line before transitioning into a riff-heavy rock anthem. Lifeson’s use of chord progressions here is both powerful and intricate. The guitar solo, known for its use of harmonics and whammy bar tricks, remains one of the most recognizable in rock history.

Closer To The Heart
This track from the ‘A Farewell to Kings’ album starts with a beautiful arpeggiated chord progression, displaying Lifeson’s delicate touch. As the song builds, it transitions into a harder rock sound, with Lifeson employing power chords and palm muting to great effect. The solo here, while brief, showcases his ability to play with emotion, using techniques like vibrato and slides to convey feeling.

Alex Lifeson – A Guitar Genius
Lifeson’s contribution to Rush and to rock music at large cannot be overstated. His playing style, which melds rock sensibilities with a technical prowess often associated with classical music, has made him an inspiration for countless guitarists. Whether it’s his delicate finger-picking on ballads or his aggressive riffs on heavier tracks, Lifeson’s versatility is second to none. “Learn To Play Rush” offers a deep dive into his techniques, allowing players to not only cover these iconic tracks but also to incorporate Lifeson’s style into their own playing.

Guitar Techniques Used In These Lessons
• Vibrato
• Alternate Picking
• Legato
• Tapped Harmonics
• Harmonics
• Chord Progressions
• Power Chords
• Palm Muting
• Vibrato
• Slides
• Whammy Bar Tricks
• String Bending
• Syncopated Rhythms

In conclusion, Learn To Play Rush is not just a lesson in five songs but a journey through decades of guitar mastery. Whether you’re a budding guitarist or a seasoned pro, this course offers invaluable insights into the style of one of rock’s greatest guitarists. Join LickLibrary in celebrating the genius of Alex Lifeson and Rush.