Sigh.
Obviously being 'prog' rockers they weren't/aren't as big as many of the 'pop rock' bands, but they sure as hell are talented.
While I'm an axe slinger myself, I never placed Alex Lifeson very high on my list of favorites, but is there ANYONE on the planet better at banging than Neil Peart (great songwriter, too)?
It took me a while to learn to enjoy their music (I'm more of a blues/classic rock guy) but they are a great band. Another interesting note--I have read that all three members use 'electronic cues' to set off sound effects during live perfomances so that what you hear live is the 'same' as their recordings. In other words you don't have to settle for a 'stripped down' version of their songs when they play live. I have never been to one of their concerts so I can't verify.
Enjoy the show, Riverhawk.
