Rush

Lyrics

[I. Tide Pools]

[Verse 1]
When the ebbing tide retreats
Along the rocky shoreline
It leaves a trail of tidal pools
In a short-lived galaxy
Each microcosmic planet
A complete society

[Verse 2]
A simple kind mirror
To reflect upon our own
All the busy little creatures
Chasing out their destinies
Living in their pools
They soon forget about the sea...

[Instrumental Refrain]

[Chorus]
Wheels within wheels in a spiral array
A pattern so grand and complex
Time after time we lose sight of the way
Our causes can't see their effects
[II. Hyperspace]

[Verse 3]
A quantum leap forward
In time and in space
The universe learned to expand
The mess and the magic
Triumphant and tragic
A mechanized world out of hand

[Instrumental Refrain]

Computerized clinic
For superior cynics
Who dance to a synthetic band
In their own image
Their world is fashioned
No wonder they don't understand

[Guitar Solo]

Wheels within wheels in a spiral array
A pattern so grand and complex
Time after time we lose sight of the way
Our causes can't see their effects
[III. Permanent Waves]
Science, like nature, must also be tamed
With a view towards its preservation
Given the same state of integrity
It will surely serve us well

Art as expression, not as market campaigns
Will still capture our imaginations
Given the same state of integrity
It will surely help us along

[Guitar Solo]

The most endangered species: the honest man
Will still survive annihilation
Forming a world, state of integrity
Sensitive, open and strong

[Instrumental Break]

Wave after wave will flow with the tide
And bury the world as it does
Tide after tide will flow and recede
Leaving life to go on as it was
[Instrumental Outro]

With almost five decades of musical production and over 25 records released, Rush remains one of the most influential rock bands in history, setting the standard for progressive hard rock and shaping the industry as we know it today. One of the band's most famous songs is “Natural Science,” a nine-minute musical masterpiece included in their album Permanent Waves, which features a powerful message about the relationship between science and nature. As a content writer and a music expert, I'm excited to share my insights and thoughts on this iconic song and its impact on music history.

About Natural Science

Natural Science is the sixth and last track in Permanent Waves, Rush's 1980 album. It is a three-part suite comprised of Tide Pools, Hyperspace, and Permanent Waves, exploring themes surrounding the relationship between humans, science, and nature. Written by drummer and lyricist Neil Peart, the song provides a stellar example of the band's talent in crafting complex and innovative music with powerful messages.

At a time when rock music was associated with rebellion and anti-establishment sentiments, Rush's music was a refreshing approach to the genre, focusing on intellect and philosophy, something not common in the industry at the time. Natural Science is a perfect example of this, using science and nature analogies to provide a thoughtful critique of humanity's relationship with nature and how control and understanding can lead to equilibrium.

On the Tide Pools section, Rush sings about seaweed and sunsets, with Neil Peart using introspective language to draw a parallel between the sea and human emotions. The second section, Hyperspace, is a musical transition that prepares the listener to move to the Permanent Waves section, a part that provides the central message of the song.

Peart's lyrics in the Permanent Waves section are a remarkable critique of the role of science in human life, exploring how science has created a disconnect between humans and nature, setting us up in a "synthetic world" which is out of balance with our natural environment. The song encourages the listener to move away from relying on science while also encouraging its use in understanding the power of nature. Rush's sophisticated and beautiful music perfectly complements the song's message, with guitar and drum solos, and Geddy Lee's voice hitting the perfect notes, leading to a memorable climax.

The song is a beloved piece of music, a testament to Rush's incredible musical craftsmanship. Natural Science doesn't follow the typical form of rock songs at the time, featuring a three-part suite that moves beyond the basic verse-chorus structure. Instead, Rush utilizes an exceptional approach, allowing them to incorporate various musical styles, borrow from various genres, and integrate experimental music forms. The result is a genre-bending work that continues to inspire musicians and music fans alike.

The song's distinct complexity requires critical thinking and active listening, which allows Natural Science to remain relevant and popular all these decades later. Its captivating call for balance between science and nature is something that still resonates today, making it one of the most impactful songs in the history of rock music.

Why You Should Listen to Natural Science

Natural Science is Rush's most ambitious song, combining the band's technical prowess with its mastery of crafting compelling stories with insightful messages. It is a perfect example of the band's talent and creativity, showcasing their ability to create a song that challenges the norm of rock music while still being engaging and thought-provoking.

This song is a must-listen for music fans looking for something new and different. There is something special about the way that Rush combines various musical genres, showcasing how progressive rock can break down boundaries and transcend musical stereotypes. The epic and unique storytelling in the song, coupled with its beautiful instrumentation and vocals, offers a musical experience that will stay with you long after the music ends.

Natural Science is not just a song, it's an experience, and it's one that I highly recommend. Rush's creativity, musicality, and message make Natural Science an absolute masterpiece, deserving of its place in the hall of fame.

• Release Date: January 14, 1980
• Artist: Rush