Music
"Xanadu" is the first Rush song in which synthesizers are an integral part. Unlike the previous 2112 or Caress of Steel albums, "Xanadu" used both guitar and synthesizer effects, and thus represented a transitional phase for the group.
The song also marks Rush's clear foray into program music. Previous albums had displayed some elements of program music. Subsequent albums during the late 1970s and early 1980s would see the group explore program music more systematically.
"Xanadu" requires each member to utilize an array of instruments to effect the performance. Lifeson used a double-necked Gibson electric guitar (one twelve-string, the other six-string) as well as synthesizer pedals; Lee made use of a double-necked Rickenbacker 4080/12 guitar (bass and twelve-string guitar) as well as extensive synthesizer arrangements (through both pedals and keyboards) while singing; and Peart took on various percussion instruments (notably temple blocks, tubular bells, bell tree, glockenspiel and wind chimes) in addition to his drum kit work.
More recent performances of the song have been altered in order to simplify the arrangement. For example, when played during the R30 tour, the end of the song was changed so that Geddy Lee did not play the rhythm guitar part, as in the original arrangement.
Read more about this topic: Xanadu (Rush Song)
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