Customer Reviews

Roadshow: Landscape With Drums: A Concert Tour by Motorcycle

5 star:		(52)
4 star:		(30)
3 star:		(17)
2 star:		(4)
1 star:		(8)

 

 

Neil can write and portray landscapes extremely well. It's literally fun to read this book. Neil delves into everything from Rush to cycling, to soul searching. I wish he'd not complain so much about people in general, seems a little weird he chooses to play in a band, then complains about touring, etc. However, I love that Neil states these opinions. I personally think Neil would be better off to meet a few fans in controlled sessions--just so he understands most fans are not fanatical. I could have met Neil several times by chance, for example, but respected his privacy. The stories of crew, diners, landscapes, motels, roads, vegetation, town histories, Route 66, and other things portray how good a writer Neil is--without Rush. Neil essentially "bares his soul" in this book more than others. I pity a musician who on the one hand loves to play, but on the other complains so much about the rigors that come with his profession, most of which are "business-induced." Work basically sucks for everyone, but.. some are compensated more than others.. and it's comical to listen to sports players, musicians, etc, complain when they make big salaries compared to others. The book describes musical history, regional visits, friendships, bikes, cars, history, crew, technology, how an old map outperforms GPS (Doofus and Dingus) at times, a childhood in Ontario, tour struggles, spirituality, and intertwining relationships between crew, band members, and friends. I admire the soulful writing. Highly recommended for people who enjoy travel narratives or Rush. Neil is a perfectionist, who is as demanding of himself as of others--another paradox, because nobody's perfect. Neil also seems to be "rehearsed" as a writer and player, yet spontaneous all the while. His apparent dedication and tenacity for all aspects of his work are things I respect and admire. The book is quite polished, informative, and entertaining.

Neil Peart is clearly a very talented author. For a man who didn't even finish high school, he writes with PhD-level intellect and one can hardly be bored by anything he has ever written. "Landscape with Drums" is Neil's narrative of his U.S. and European treks by motorcycle between cities and countries during Rush's R30 tour in 2004. It is a well-written account from both a musician and motorcyclist's perspective of the tolls of touring and putting in high-mileage days, riding between destinations. However, as good as I felt that this work is, it could have been better and here's why:

-Absence of visual imagery. This book is four hundred pages of text about a motorcycle tour with LOTS of riding, with no pictures for one to visualize what Neil is describing (and there's LOTS of description). From a fellow motorcyclist's perspective, I want to see what HE is seeing and not just leave it to my imagination. Sure, pictures would have raised the production cost/sale price but for dedicated fans and readers, it would have been worth it.

-Repeated references to church signs and dislike for fan contact. Okay, so, we're not in Neil's shoes and I perfectly understand him not caring for the public "eye" too much. I think that time, along with fans who don't respect boundaries, have worn him down. Who are we to say? Even so, this theme, repeated in a few of his books gets a little "tired".

The part about the church signs (while touring the U.S.) seemed to be almost mocking the various houses of worship. Again, we cannot imagine what Neil had to go through during his double-tragedy between 1997-1998 and it would have probably caused any one of us to doubt our faith. While Mr. Peart is definitely entitled to his opinion, it is afforded him to put into print because of his fame. He should remember that many of his fans are followers of some form of religion.

Don't get me wrong here, folks. I have been a Rush fan since 1979, and I absolutely love the work of Neil Peart. In fact, he could scribble on a cocktail napkin and I would call it a masterpiece. As lyricist and drummer for Rush, (along with Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson), he has co-written some of the most famous progressive rock songs in the past 35 years.... Each Rush album from the mid-seventies through today is a collection of dramatic soundscapes and epic sagas, e.g. "2112", "The Spirit of Radio", "Tom Sawyer", "Red Barchetta", "Limelight", "Subdivisions", "The Big Money" and the list could go on and on... These songs were very powerful anthems of my youth, telling real-life stories that any adrenaline-filled teen or 20-something could identify with...Even today, these songs are timeless mainstays, engrained forever in the face of modern music.

Overall, I rated this book at four (4) stars, deducting one star for the two points mentioned above. There could have been a few pictures included that might have engaged the reader more, instead of making him/her feel as if reading Mr. Peart's diary.

I had long anticipated reading this book, but the results were disappointing. I was hoping that Neil would focus on the experience of touring, drumming, and playing live, but he doesn't. The book focuses far more on his motorcycle trips between shows than on the shows themselves. The shows often get just a passing mention. For example, he frequently gives brief descriptions such as "It was a good show," and then largely leaves it at that. Well, why was the show good? He often doesn't say. Frankly, Neil seems so bored at this point with touring, that he prefers to focus on his travels and motorcycling. That's fine, but it's not what I was expecting considering the book's title.

Don't get me wrong. There are many great passages in the book that make it worth reading, but there's a lot of filler to sort through too. Fairly early on, he does describe the rehearsals for the first show and the first show itself, but then he abandons the topic for pages at a time. There are some great passages with interesting insights or funny recollections, but they are too few and far between. I found myself quickly scanning the pages (and pages) discussing motorcycle maintenance or roadside scenery, looking instead for anything on music, Rush, or playing live.

What's frustrating is that anyone can write a book on what it's like to ride a motorcycle cross country (again, he has already done that; see Ghost Rider). But he's the only person on the planet who can describe what it's like to be the drummer in Rush!

I imagine I'm not alone in wanting to read more details about his life as a touring musician. What's it like to be on stage and play with Alex and Geddy after 30 years? What's it like to see thousands of hands clapping during "Spirit of Radio?" What songs does he enjoy playing the most? I realize that all of these things may be old hat to him, but they're not to his fans. On the other hand, reading multiple accounts about how many miles he drove in a day or what he ate for dinner each night, just isn't that interesting, even if it is Neil Peart doing the writing. I guess I have to accept that the book I'm interested in reading Neil isn't interested in writing.

If you do want to get a better sense for Neil's life as a touring musician, I recommend reading the essay he wrote on this topic during the Moving Pictures tour, called "For Whom the Bus Rolls." Also, I recommend checking out the great documentary on the Rush in Rio DVD called "The Boys in Brazil," which Neil actually refers to and quotes from in the book. If you're looking for a great account of a rock tour, I highly recommend Bill Flannagan's excellent account of U2's Zoo TV Tour, "U2: Until the End of the World."

This is the second book I have read by NP, the first being Ghost Rider. After reading this one though, I have mixed feelings about not only the book, but it's author as well. A bad taste stirs. I'll get well into all that soon enough.

Not only do I enjoy Rush's music, I am a musician as well for over 20 years now. Rush has influenced and inspired me just as so many other people have expressed likewise. It can't be overstated enough - Rush are truly "musicians musicians".

The book is an easy, fast read and grateful for that I am. While there are a few comical perspectives and moments that are quite enjoyable, it's too soon that a pattern of expression, subject matter and what details to expect are long established and become predictable. This translates into repetitious, tired topics. (How many times do we have to hear about the GPS systems and changed venue names?)

The mileage traveled in a day, rather than simply enjoying the process or destinations seems to take higher focus. After each trip to the next venue we get stats - distance in not only miles, but kilometers, the motel Peart and riding partner/friend/bodyguard/go-for stay at - and of course, the name of the closest TGI Fridays they eat at. (I'll take the plane ride with Geddy and Alex instead, thanks.)

In all fairness, there are occasions when we are treated to facts about history, famous quotes, touching moments and inner thoughts while Peart is playing live. Things do pick up a bit during the Canadian and European legs which are richer in detail, not to mention we are somewhat greeted by a welcomed break from NP's general crabbiness.

We aren't treated to as much of the music side of touring, the biz or the other band mate's as one would expect. Many people will read this book in order to gain insight about Rush and the music side, not because Peart documents his too self-focused and somewhat dull travels on this tour.

The best insight NP divulges about his band mates are all quoted from the Rush in Rio DVD sadly, and by themselves no less. NP doesn't stick around with anyone too long before or after the gigs and it's about half way through the tour he wishes it was over (much like my experience with this book). I cant help but wonder if one day NP gets the same recognition for being a writer as he does for being in a rock band, will he not want to talk about that either with anyone in social settings?

It's too bad. Such a mine of information and rich subject matter could have been presented from over 30 years of being a professional touring musician in one of the greatest bands. That aspect is far more interesting hands down than any rainy ride on a 2-wheeler could ever possibly present. Not to mention, after 4 books of it, the towel may be well rung out at this point.

I would have loved to hear what went on back stage with Jack Black in more detail or 30 years of band antics. At least that sound fun - and that's what's missing here, the fun. Peart more or less gets through all this, rather than enjoys it.

While I agree with NP's perspective on organized religion in general and the fact some people may force their views on others, the manner chosen or even this venue to express it didn't sit well. The continual poke at what church signs read along the way came off as a bit smug, and again, tired.

Admittedly, I may be making a bigger deal of it than deserved. Being rubbed the wrong way one too many times tends to have that affect. Arrogance rears it's ugly head again when NP takes the liberty to gesture passing cars how to drive to his satisfaction along roadways.

I couldn't help but think part way through this book, it's sad what stardom does to most musicians and actors. (I guess you could throw a few other professions in as well.) First they all want to be noticed, have everyone buy their records, believe in them, support them and go to their shows, then when they reach comfortable financial status and a high level of notoriety for what they do, they don't want to be bothered. For a band like Rush, fame happened long, long ago when 2112 was on 8-Track.

"People make a living and money because others like what they do. People gain fame and make lots of money because others are passionate and affected by what they do."

Is having a photo taken or saying hi for a few minuets to fans really that big of a deal? Jeez. Isn't that part of the job to a degree? In many other industries they call it "customer service". Sure, we all have freewill to think, say and do whatever we want. Does that mean we always should though?

As far as safety from "maniac fans", people face threats everyday all over the world - not just stars, and much, much worse threats I might add. In an incident with a fan, it's actually Peart who lashes out, not the fan. I couldn't help but wonder - could the situation have ended with far better outcome not just for the fan, but for Peart if he had just taken 15 seconds to sign the mans LPs and say thanks for traveling all that way?

You could bet though if the situation were a lots of empty seats and horrible record sales over the years, the policy may be a bit different today. Does anyone else whiff the distinct stink of "Hogwash-Ode-De-Double-Standard" in the air?

As another reviewer noted, NP complains incessantly about traffic, drivers, cities, bugs, food, parties, being asked about his profession, set lengths, electronics, show times, and fans all the way through well past the last truck carrying light rigging disappears far over the horizon.

One can't help but think, maybe it is time to put down the sticks and call it a day.

While I was looking forward to reading this book, I couldn't overlook the nagging feeling in my gut that Neil Peart would fill hundreds of pages with a lot of whining, crabbing and irritation at the fact that he has to actually put in a grueling three hour work day every other day. What I found most enjoyable were his observations about the scenery and locales he visited, particulary in Europe. (The Skibo Castle description was ornate and engaging.) But there was just too much bitching from this misanthrope millionare. The fact that he can't deal with fans who have allowed him to live a life of leisure and luxury is ridiculous. Sure, there are some nuts out there, but this guy needs to show more appreciation for his audience. And heaven forbid that Geddy should want to add one song to the set for the European leg of the tour--Neil freaked out on him like a spoiled child. There's no doubt that Neil Peart has prodigious talent with the pen, but he needs serious help in the social skills department. Of course, I don't need to like a writer at all to enjoy what he writes, but when the two are joined at the hip in a biography, it's certainly going to effect my impression of the work.

Have you ever seen those Tee-Shirts stating "I would rather be... (fill in anything better than what you're doing)?

In his written account of ROADSHOW Neil Peart makes it perfectly clear that playing drums on a RUSH tour is WORK and he would rather be doing something else.

ROADSHOW is an honest account of the man, many name - the best drummer alive (or dead). Peart makes no excuses in his exclamations of being bothered by overly zealus fans, having his picture taken with fans, and being asked any question about himself or the band. Peart explains his self barrier from fans as due to his relentless shyness and personal doubt of his own worthiness of such attention.

However, as a reader, it's certainly apparent that Peart has lost his fervor for Rush. He gives much affection to his bandmates but it seems evident that his drive for the music and performing for the fans has been lost somewhere over the years.

I was deflated by the loss of drive that Peart has suffered for his music...Rush's music. More so, I find it understanding how Rush fans would be put off by his believing them mostly to be weirdo's if they should happen to get to close to him by approaching and asking for an autograph. Of course, Peart usually does sign the autographs but the book makes it clear that he would rather not be bothered.

I do not beleive that Neil Peart is nose up. I believe the man is a good man and an honest one. He told the truth in ROADSHOW. It's just that the truth isn't going to make Rush fans happy. Fans want him to indulge them into the inner workings of the band. Peart does give some details and shares many stories about previous tours and his bandmates. But the book is titled ROADSHOW - A Concert Tour by Motorcycle. Thus, it is exactly as offered. It is about Neil Peart on tour - on Motorcycle - between shows.

I think what has caused pain for Rush fans is that, while Peart is regularly noting his disdain for the tour, referring it all as WORK, and frequently dismissing fan appreciation as worrisome and often scary, his fans are reading about his living in the riches of California's Malibu region, luxurious adventures, staying in nice hotels, eating well, being prosperous, traveling Eurpoe, and riding his bike all over the world.

Peart fans feel that they have paid for those services and that Peart owes then just a little more gratitude and love.

But realistically, fans haven't paid for NEIL PEART. They've paid for his talent. So let's all just give the man his credit for being a superb drummer of a very unique band that survived for over three decades.

Neil Peart doesn't like touring anymore. He's tired of it. Rush is work to him. He'd rather be doing other things...

Let him do them without judgement. If you aren't happy with him, don't buy anymore music from Rush, refuse the concerts, and stop asking him for autographs and such. But don't punish him for being honest.

Buy the book!

ROADSHOW is a great book! It really is. Neil peart is a solid writer with a promising future. Unfortunately though, most folks buying this and other Neil Peart books are Rush fans. And if the book stirs up some distance between the fans and Peart, his writing future may lay like a heavy bike on a hairpin turn.

I assume some readers of Neil's past few books may have found him through bicycling or motorcycling or even through hearing of his efforts of working through the grief of losing his loved ones. His previous books were works of a man obviously gifted with a way of describing his progression through the world and life, but I had at some time hoped to read of his life as a drummer and musician also.
This is it. It was a great book and showed me more of the shy musician who loves his work but also loves his life. As a motorcyclist I found it enjoyable and as a Rush fan found it enlightening.
It was surprising to read how he often recognized fans who appeared at many shows and that he sometimes aknowledged them. I always assumed that with such bright lights that musicians could not even see the crowd.
It was also cool to hear how Geddy and Alex fit into his life and what good friends and business partners they really are.
His need for perfection in a show was a surprise also as I always assumed that they were just SO talented that it was easy. His dissapointment at making mistakes was a surprise and I assume that few fans ever noticed the mistakes that bothered Neil.
Neil just comes off as a nice regular guy who happens to be the best drummer/lyricist in the world who has a love of traveling on two wheels.
If I ever see him in a bike shop, state park ,or just on the road I think I'd have to give him a "Thanks" for a "job" well done. I'll think of his journeys often when I lift a glass of "The Maccallan" .

Having been a Rush fan for over 20 years, I was once again thrilled to see that Mr. Peart had written another book. His previous books were excellent, well written and descriptive dissertations of himself and the world around him. This time however, I felt annoyed at times by his self pity and found him to be pompous at times. We all understand work is work and it kind of takes a bit out of seeing a Rush show knowing that the drummer "Can't wait to go home". Mr. Peart, if you read these I would like to thank you first of all for pursuit of excellence in drumming and in writing, secondly and most importantly; the majority of fans are not scoring your every performance - we're just rocking away. Lighten up and take a clue from your other band mates. The Limelight is a price you pay for being famous. Make the best of it and enjoy the fans who put you there.

I have always liked the music of Rush and Neil Peart. Neil raised the bar for rock drumming by himself and although he would never take credit for it, anyone that has listened to him or has seen him perform understands. The Roadshow book offers one of the most interesting insights into Neil and the world he deals with in the music business. I think it is one of the most honest and interesting books on this subject that I have ever read. In fact, once I started reading this book, I couldn't put it down. Neils passion for BMW motorcycles, his drums, his family, and his friends are respectable. Neil shares with the reader his approach to staying sane during the process of touring with his band through North America and Europe.

You will like this book..... and thank you Neil for sharing this part of your life with us!

I was an English major in college and my current work sends me on regular trips to exotic places (read: developing countries). In addition I must disclose that I have been a fan of Rush for the last 20 years.

As an admirer of good travel writing, I have enjoyed experiencing Peart's development as a writer, but I think that development has slowed a bit with this book. Perhaps it is a by-product of poor editing, but the American portion of the roadshow becomes too repetitive and predictable. While I enjoyed the church signs, generic venue names, and comments on GPS technology, I would have enjoyed less of them even more. I was therefore thrilled when the European tour began, for it seemed to revitalize his prose. In general, Peart has a knack for describing landscapes and people, and his earnest enthusiasm for motorcycle touring shines through (some of the technical points about riding were like wind through my hair, but I expected that when I bought the book). What I did not expect were the missives on how awful he finds most of the people he encounters outside of the Skibo Castles of the world. Giving $[...] to one stranded motorist does not absolve one of thousands of published offensive or ill thoughts about people that are rooted in stereotypes, class discrimination, etc. I am also not sure how to interpret the message "I have gay friends" in the context of acting like a sterotypical gay male as a source of amusement. How this would read if he claimed to have black friends and then acted like a stereotype from David Chappelle skit? My take home message: with stronger editing, I think the book would have been a better read.

Switching gears - as a fan of the band, I enjoyed learning about the "work" side, or behind the scenes aspects of touring, and was surprised by how much he disclosed (where others are disappointed at what he left out). Unfortunately I was disappointed that his work in Rush has devolved into a way to pay the bills. Traveling Music had the opposite effect on me - perhaps because he was not writing it in the midst of a tour. I was also surprised that he apparently prefers not to mingle with his bandmates more than is necesarry for work. Lee and Lifeson may occupy the opposite end of that spectrum - but when Peart appears disappointed to find himself booked into the same hotel as bandmates - that's too bad. I am also sorry that he has an innate fear of fans - but then again there are the Chapmans of the world (Mark David - not Dog the Bounty Hunter) and that must be ascknowledged too. Finally - as an American fan of Rush - I am troubled by his disdain for Americans in general and of fans of the band specifically.

Final comment - I hope he gets a payout for every mention of The Macallan - he'd never have to drum for money again ;-)