Moving Pictures - A Tribute to the music of Rush

Moving Pictures: A Tribute to the Music of Rush at O2 Academy Bournemouth

Prepare for an electrifying journey through the progressive rock titans, Rush, as Moving Pictures, the UK’s premier Rush tribute band, descends upon O2 Academy Bournemouth on Friday, 5 December 2025. This isn’t just a concert; it’s a meticulously crafted homage, a visceral re-experience of the sonic landscapes and lyrical depth that defined one of the most influential bands of all time. Moving Pictures brings to life the intricate musicianship, the soaring vocals, and the anthemic power that made Rush a global phenomenon, promising an unforgettable night for both lifelong fans and those eager to discover the magic.

About the Event

On Friday, 5 December 2025, O2 Academy Bournemouth will resonate with the unmistakable sound of Rush, brought to you with exceptional skill and passion by Moving Pictures. This event is more than a tribute; it’s a celebration of a musical legacy that has inspired generations. Moving Pictures are renowned for their dedication to capturing the authentic spirit and sonic fidelity of Rush’s extensive catalogue. From the complex instrumental passages of their early progressive epics to the more radio-friendly, yet equally powerful, anthems of their later years, this tribute band meticulously recreates every nuance. Expect a night where musical prowess meets raw energy, a chance to sing along to beloved classics and be transported back to the era when Rush reshaped the boundaries of rock music. For fans, it’s an opportunity to relive cherished memories and experience their favourite songs performed with the utmost respect and artistry. For newcomers, it’s an unparalleled introduction to the genius of Rush, delivered by a band that lives and breathes their music.

About Moving Pictures - A Tribute to the Music of Rush

Moving Pictures emerged from the fervent desire of seasoned musicians to honour the colossal legacy of Rush. For over three decades, Geddy Lee, Alex Lifeson, and Neil Peart forged a path of unparalleled musical innovation, blending hard rock ferocity with progressive complexity, captivating millions with their ambitious songwriting and virtuosic performances. Moving Pictures was formed with a singular mission: to faithfully recreate the Rush experience for audiences, ensuring their enduring music continues to resonate.

The band’s journey began with a deep dive into the Rush discography, dissecting every intricate guitar riff, every thundering bass line, and every precisely executed drum fill. Their commitment to authenticity is paramount. Each member brings a level of skill and dedication that allows them to inhabit their respective roles with uncanny accuracy. The guitarist masterfully navigates the intricate solos and powerful chord progressions that are hallmarks of Alex Lifeson’s style, while the bassist and vocalist expertly captures Geddy Lee’s distinctive vocal range and signature Rickenbacker tone. The drummer, in particular, faces the formidable task of emulating Neil Peart’s legendary rhythmic precision, his complex polyrhythms, and his powerful, driving beat.

Moving Pictures has spent years honing their craft, playing to rapturous crowds across the UK and beyond. Their setlists are carefully curated, spanning the entirety of Rush’s illustrious career. From the early, proto-prog masterpieces like “2112” and “A Farewell to Kings” to the stadium-filling anthems of the 80s such as “Tom Sawyer” and “Limelight,” and even venturing into the more mature sounds of their later albums like “Clockwork Angels,” the band covers all the essential ground. Their performance of notable hits like “The Spirit of Radio,” “Subdivisions,” “Closer to the Heart,” and the deeply philosophical “Red Barchetta” are always crowd-pleasers, eliciting enthusiastic singalongs and rapturous applause. Moving Pictures doesn’t just play the songs; they embody the spirit of Rush, delivering a performance that is both technically brilliant and emotionally resonant, a true testament to the enduring power of the music.

Venue Information

O2 Academy Bournemouth is a premier live music venue located in the heart of Bournemouth, known for its vibrant atmosphere and excellent acoustics, making it the perfect setting for a high-energy tribute show. This historic building has been a cornerstone of the local music scene, hosting a diverse range of artists and ensuring a memorable night for concert-goers. Whether you’re a local or travelling to Bournemouth for the event, the O2 Academy offers a fantastic experience. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for a night of unadulterated musical excellence as Moving Pictures delivers a powerful and authentic tribute to Rush. The performance is a journey through the band’s remarkable three-decade career, carefully curated to include a broad spectrum of their most iconic tracks. You can anticipate a setlist that flawlessly blends the progressive intricacies of their early works with the anthemic rock power of their more commercially successful periods. Expect to hear soaring guitar solos that echo Alex Lifeson’s mastery, thunderous bass lines that channel Geddy Lee’s distinctive style, and the driving, precise drumming that was the hallmark of Neil Peart.

The band’s commitment to sonic accuracy means that the familiar keyboard textures, the rich vocal harmonies, and the complex song structures of Rush will be faithfully recreated. This isn’t just a cover band; it’s a meticulously planned and executed homage. The performance style is energetic and engaging, designed to capture the live spirit of Rush. Moving Pictures are known for their stage presence, interacting with the audience and conveying the passion and excitement that Rush themselves brought to their live shows.

The duration of the show is expected to be approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, including a short intermission. This allows ample time for Moving Pictures to delve deep into the Rush catalogue, showcasing their versatility and breadth of talent. Highlights of the setlist will undoubtedly include fan favourites such as the epic narrative of “2112” (likely a condensed version or excerpts), the driving rhythm of “Tom Sawyer,” the introspective beauty of “Limelight,” the powerful social commentary of “The Spirit of Radio,” and the infectious energy of “Subdivisions.” The band also has a knack for unearthing deeper cuts and fan-loved album tracks, offering a comprehensive Rush experience. Whether you’re a seasoned Rush aficionado who knows every time signature change or a newer fan drawn to their infectious melodies, Moving Pictures guarantees a night filled with musical exploration, soaring vocals, and the electrifying energy that defines the enduring legacy of Rush.

FAQs

Q1: Does Moving Pictures play the entire Rush song “2112”? A1: Moving Pictures is known for its dedication to presenting Rush’s music authentically. While the full live rendition of “2112” is a significant undertaking, the band typically performs a substantial and powerful version, often including key sections and capturing the epic scope of the original. They aim to give fans a truly satisfying experience of this iconic track.

Q2: How closely do Moving Pictures replicate Neil Peart’s drumming style and sound? A2: Emulating Neil Peart is a monumental task, and Moving Pictures takes it very seriously. Their drummer is highly skilled and has dedicated significant time to studying Peart’s complex rhythms, intricate fills, and unique drumming approach. The aim is to replicate not just the notes, but the feel and power of his iconic drumming, often with attention paid to the sonic nuances of his drum kit.

Q3: Will Moving Pictures play songs from all eras of Rush’s career? A3: Absolutely. Moving Pictures prides itself on covering the breadth of Rush’s extensive discography. Their setlists are carefully curated to span from the early progressive rock epics of the 1970s, through the hit-laden 1980s, and often into their more mature and diverse work from the 1990s and beyond. This ensures that fans of all Rush eras will hear their favourites.

Q4: Are the vocals performed live, and how do they compare to Geddy Lee’s range? A4: Yes, all vocals are performed live by the band’s vocalist, who possesses a remarkable vocal range and timbre that closely mirrors Geddy Lee’s distinctive singing style. The band works hard to accurately reproduce the layered harmonies and the dynamic vocal delivery that are a signature of Rush’s studio and live recordings.

Q5: How long is the typical performance by Moving Pictures? A5: Moving Pictures generally performs a full set, typically lasting between 2.5 to 3 hours, including a short intermission. This generous running time allows them to showcase a wide selection of Rush’s material, providing a comprehensive and satisfying concert experience.

Q6: Is it possible to request specific Rush songs during the event? A6: While Moving Pictures meticulously plans their setlists to offer a diverse and satisfying representation of Rush’s catalogue, they are highly responsive to audience energy. While direct song requests during the performance are generally not accommodated due to the intricate nature of their arrangements, the band’s setlist is designed to please a wide array of Rush fans, and their passion for the music is evident in every song they choose to perform.