Rush: Heavy Prog or Prog Metal?

SteveG wrote: Rush is listed in PA under Heavy Prog. But is Rush Heavy Prog or Progressive Metal? Inquiring minds need to know. What's your thoughts?

I've always thought of Rush as primarily being a hard rock band which certainly has links to classic heavy metal.  Heavy Prog is the most apt category. 

PA wrote: Heavy Prog definition Heavy Prog defines progressive rock music that draws as much influence from hard rock as it does from classic progressive rock. In simple terms, it is a marriage of the guitar-based heavy blues of the late 1960s and 1970s - artists such as Cream, Led Zeppelin, and Black Sabbath - and the progressive/symphonic movement represented by King Crimson, Yes and Genesis.

The most important period froma prog perpective for Rush is the 70s through early 80s, and that music does not befit what is now known as Prog Metal as well as what we call Heavy Prog.  Prog Metal bands in PA were influenced by Rush, so it's more Proto Prog Metal.  Heavy Prog is just right, I think.

^Makes sense to me. Thanks.

^Hmmm, not really sure if that's a yes or a no.

Between the two listed I would vote Heavy Prog. In that there is a heavy does of progressive elements in all their music. I don't think there is a heavy does of metal in all their music.

Many middle of the road rock bands, a la Foo-Fighters, are influenced by Rush, as well as metal bands.

Based on their whole catalog, as an average, Heavy Prog works well.

Its really called "Rush Music"

Heavy Prog.

^Agreed! Heavy Prog it is!   Hail Rush! 

Not heavy enough to be considered metal to me. But much heavier than the other classic bands, heavy prog is perfect I think, but it is interesting to hear the influence they had on many different aspects of metal in general, I hear Rush in Iron Maiden, Dream Theater, certain thrash bands. Rush have made their mark on a few different genres, but heavy prog makes the most since.

Catcher10 wrote: Between the two listed I would vote Heavy Prog. In that there is a heavy does of progressive elements in all their music. I don't think there is a heavy does of metal in all their music.  Many middle of the road rock bands, a la Foo-Fighters, are influenced by Rush, as well as metal bands.  Based on their whole catalog, as an average, Heavy Prog works well.  Its really called "Rush Music"

I am not a great fan of Rush to be honest, Geddy's vocals are high pitched although through the years it got better, so are the vocals of Budgie vocalist however Parents is one of my ultimate fav tracks ever Ok back to topic, considering that prog got a bad name due to the music industry corporate suits in the 80's, many bands turned pop, Rush was a breath of fresh air to be honest instead of punk or pop alternatives for sure. No doubt they are outstanding musicians, somehow I prefer 4 member bands compared to 3 it seems.
Neil Peart double kicks *ss and yes I read his book, however (awww please don't kill me) he is partly to blame to Geddy's singing too because most times I don't like the singing, love the bass line too much, but the lyrics at times are a bit corny too    pls do not shoot me!! hugs
I would describe them as prog rock yes I will especially during the 80's.

Metal?  Good grief.  Ain't never been nohow near as I reckon.