Circumstances

The song Circumstances by Rush, featured on their 1978 album Hemispheres, holds a unique place in the band’s catalog as one of the shorter, more radio-friendly tracks from an album known for its sprawling progressive rock epics. In a fan comment on Songfacts, a listener named Kirk from Santa Cruz recalled hearing Circumstances played back-to-back with The Trees on a school bus in California, noting that it received some airplay during the Hemispheres tour. This suggests the song’s accessibility helped it connect with audiences despite the album’s complex themes. However, not all reviews were glowing. Critic Bart Testa, in a Circus magazine review, called Circumstances the only true “song” on the album but dismissed it as “not very good,” favoring the instrumental prowess of the longer tracks. Fans on Prog Archives have also debated its merits, with some labeling it “forgettable” due to its straightforward rock style, while others appreciate its catchy energy and Geddy Lee’s dynamic vocal delivery.

Another layer of intrigue comes from the song’s lyrics, penned by drummer Neil Peart, which include the French phrase “Plus ça change, plus c’est la même chose” (The more things change, the more they stay the same). A fan named Billy from Brick, NJ, on Songfacts, highlighted this line as a key thematic element, reflecting the song’s exploration of disillusionment and resilience. Olivier from Alma, Quebec, also praised the French passage for its cultural resonance. The song’s recording process was challenging for Geddy Lee, who, in a Songfacts interview, described the vocal sessions for Hemispheres as “miserable” because the band recorded the music first, leaving him to fit vocals over complex tracks that weren’t always singable. Despite these struggles, Circumstances became a live favorite, with fans like John from Asheville, NC, noting its strong performance during Rush’s later tours.

Rush, formed in Toronto, Canada, began as a high school project fueled by teenage ambition and a love for rock. Guitarist Alex Lifeson and bassist/vocalist Geddy Lee, originally joined by drummer John Rutsey, started playing covers of bands like Cream and Led Zeppelin in 1968. According to their bio on Rush’s official website, the trio honed their skills in local bars and clubs, with their early sound rooted in raw, bluesy hard rock. Their self-titled debut album in 1974, released on Moon Records, captured this gritty energy but gained little traction until American radio stations, particularly in Cleveland, embraced tracks like Working Man. Rutsey’s departure due to health issues and creative differences led to Neil Peart’s arrival in 1974, a pivotal moment that shaped Rush’s progressive direction. Peart’s intricate drumming and philosophical lyrics elevated the band’s ambition, leading to albums like Fly by Night and 2112, which cemented their cult following.

Rush’s journey from bar gigs to prog-rock icons was marked by relentless touring and a DIY ethos. As detailed on Rush is a Band, a fan-run site, the band’s early years involved grueling schedules, playing to small crowds while refining their complex sound. Their breakthrough came with 2112 in 1976, which defied label pressures for commercial songs and instead featured a 20-minute sci-fi epic, earning them creative control and a loyal fanbase. By the time Hemispheres was released, Rush had established themselves as masters of blending technical virtuosity with cerebral storytelling, a reputation that carried them through decades of global success.

Fans can connect with Rush’s legacy through their official website, which offers news, tour archives, and merchandise. Their Facebook page shares updates and fan memories, while Geddy Lee’s Instagram (@geddyimages) and Alex Lifeson’s Instagram (@thereallerxst) provide personal glimpses into their lives. On X, the band’s official account (@rush) engages with fans through retrospectives and announcements. Fan communities thrive on sites like Rush is a Band and Cygnus-X1.Net, which offer detailed discographies and tributes. The Rush Forum and the Rush Fans Facebook group foster lively discussions, connecting “Zoo Freaks” with fellow devotees of Rush’s enduring sound.