Animate

The song Animate by Rush, from their 1993 album Counterparts, is a fan favorite packed with intriguing layers. Lyrically, it dives into the theories of Carl Jung, particularly the concept of the Anima, the unconscious female component of the male psyche, with its "counterpart," the Animus, representing the male component in the female psyche. Neil Peart, the band’s drummer and lyricist, explained in a 1994 Modern Drummer interview that he drew on a basic R&B rhythm from his early playing days, blending it with a hypnotic vibe inspired by British bands like Curve and Lush from the early '90s. This fusion gives Animate its driving, almost primal energy, which bassist Geddy Lee described as having a “bestiality” and “insistence” he loved, calling it one of Rush’s greats in a Last.fm feature.

Fans have shared vivid stories about experiencing Animate live. A fan named Mark from Syracuse, posting on Songfacts, recounted being front and center at a Counterparts tour stop in Rochester, NY, where he marveled at Geddy Lee’s flamenco pick technique on his bass during the song. Another fan, Eric from Bend, OR, noted on the same site that Animate and the entire Counterparts album rank among his top Rush works, praising its groove and energy. On Reddit, a user called GodEmperorPorkyMinch highlighted how Alex Lifeson’s guitar took center stage, reflecting the band’s shift back to a heavier, guitar-driven sound after years of synthesizer dominance, a sentiment echoed by Lifeson in the documentary Rush: Beyond the Lighted Stage, where he said the album finally felt like the record they envisioned.

Rush began in Toronto in 1968, initially as a trio of guitarist Alex Lifeson, drummer John Rutsey, and bassist/vocalist Jeff Jones, though Geddy Lee quickly replaced Jones. Their early days were spent grinding in local bars, playing covers and original hard rock tunes influenced by Led Zeppelin and Cream. Their self-titled debut in 1974, recorded with Rutsey, caught attention, but Rutsey’s health issues led to his departure. Neil Peart joined just before their first major tour, bringing not only his intricate drumming but also his philosophical lyrics, which became a hallmark of Rush’s sound. Their breakthrough came with Fly by Night in 1975, and 2112 in 1976 cemented their status, blending progressive rock with heavy metal and sci-fi themes. Over decades, Rush evolved through various styles, from synth-heavy '80s records to the grittier Counterparts, earning them a devoted following and accolades like induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2013.

You can keep up with Rush on their official website, Facebook, Instagram, and X. Individual members also have active social media: Geddy Lee posts on Instagram, and Alex Lifeson shares updates on Instagram and his personal website. Fans connect through vibrant communities like Rush is a Band, a blog with tour archives and merchandise links, and The Rush Forum, a discussion hub. The Rush Fans Facebook group and r/rush on Reddit are also buzzing with Zoo Freaks sharing memories, trivia, and love for songs like Animate.