Rush returns to Tampa with new drummer Anika Nilles
Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson performed the first of two nights at Benchmark International Arena, marking their first shows with keyboardist Loren Gold.
By Aiko Brooks ·
Rush performed the first of two concerts at Benchmark International Arena in Tampa on Monday night. The set marked the band's first live shows since the death of drummer Neil Peart. New drummer Anika Nilles stepped into Peart's role, while keyboardist Loren Gold joined the lineup for the first time.
The band resumed touring after Peart died in January 2020. Bassist Geddy Lee and guitarist Alex Lifeson spent several years preparing for a return. Paul McCartney encouraged them to continue playing their music. Lee's bass technician, John McIntosh, also recommended Nilles after touring with Jeff Beck and Johnny Depp in late 2022.
The show began with a short video depicting an older Lee and Lifeson in a castle. The pair then opened the set with "Xanadu." Lee played a Rickenbacker double-neck bass, and Lifeson used a Gibson SG double-neck guitar. The crowd included fans seeing the band for the first time without Peart and others who had not seen them since the R40 tour in 2015.
Nilles played behind a large drum kit throughout the three-hour set. She performed with a steady rhythm that differed from Peart's style. The band included tributes to Peart via video screens and Lee's spoken remarks. Nilles did not attempt to imitate Peart's specific mannerisms.
Lifeson played several guitar models during the night. He used a white Gibson ES-355 on "La Villa Strangiato." On "The Trees," he switched from an acoustic guitar to a Les Paul using his custom Omega Stand. Lee handled vocal duties and bass. He performed high vocal parts on "Freewill" and played bass on "Red Barchetta."
Gold played keyboards and synthesizers for the performance. He took on synth parts for "Tom Sawyer" and "Subdivisions." His presence allowed Lee to stay near the front of the stage more often. Lee previously moved between his bass rig and keyboard setup during live shows.
The band's second show in Tampa is scheduled for Tuesday night. The tour continues with additional dates following the Florida performances.
