MrBowlers Views

Documentary Neil Peart - No One's Disciple

Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson of Rush have put together a beautiful documentary about Neil Peart: an extraordinary drummer who played incredible parts for Rush over many years and authored all of the band's lyrics. Beyond his status as a legendary drummer, Peart was a philosopher and a remarkably gifted writer.

Take, for example, his book 'Ghost Rider', about the motorcycle journey he undertook following the tragic deaths of his daughter and wife. While you never truly get over a loss like that, riding was his way to process the grief and heal. One of my favorite drummers, Doane Perry—a close friend of Peart's—speaks movingly about him in the film and was also the person who delivered the eulogy at his funeral.

Throughout the documentary, Rush songs are performed by various guest drummers. I’ll only mention two, as I feel the others aren't really worth noting: Gavin Harrison and Danny Carey. Gavin Harrison, the English drummer for Porcupine Tree, is technically phenomenal and turns in an outstanding performance. Danny Carey, the brilliant drummer from Tool, is equally exceptional. Both drummers truly understand Peart's work and the intricate way he composed his drum parts—something the other guest drummers missed, in my opinion.

It is a wonderful tribute that offers genuine insight into who Neil Peart was. I also really appreciated how Rush introduces Anika Nilles at the end as the band's new drummer. What I love most is that Rush didn't go with a well-known household name. Had they done that, it would no longer feel like Rush—it would have been Rush featuring Danny Carey, Mike Portnoy, or whichever big-name drummer wanted the gig.

Choosing Anika Nilles—a brilliant drummer of German descent—was a fantastic decision. Avoid American drummers. To be completely candid and express my rather crude opinion, American drummers often miss the mark because they tend to focus too much on themselves. Danny Carey is the exception because he approaches music from a completely different perspective and is so deeply integrated musically that it works seamlessly. If they hadn't chosen Anika, Craig Blundell would have been a fantastic alternative. But Anika has the gig, she does a stellar job, and the genuine joy on stage is obvious in all the clips circulating on Facebook and Instagram. It was a great call by the guys. Overall, this documentary is excellent, and I hope a lot of people check it out.

One final side note: Neil  mentioned trying to get work in England early on. Looking at his drum setup, it looks like a direct copy of Barriemore Barlow’s kit from Jethro Tull. I just had to get that off my chest.

A Goodbuy to Ivo Cooymans

Yes, there had to be a party! Although the reason for this party was a sad one. Ivo Cooymans, the head-programmer of Pop Podium Willem Twee left after more than 25 years. A man that brought the most beautiful music to 's-Hertogenbosch. Think of The Darkness, The Buzzcocks, Anvil, Kwoon and so many other known and unknown bands and artists. He made Willem Twee one of the most influential podia in The Netherlands. He worked his ass off to get that done.

A good and friendly man with a deep knowledge of music.
Yesterday was that party where old colleagues and friends said goodbye.  We had a drink, a laugh, there were speeches and music by Ivo's own band 'Thundering Hearts'. With a big smile behind his drumkit we could see he enjoyed it.
A book with 'd'n Ivoos' Playlist and stories about the songs by his friends was a lovely gift. I'm sure we'll hear more from Ivo. It was an honor to work with this great guy.