Posted by When I moved from Buffalo, New York to Long Island in 2012, I never imagined I’d become such a fan of tribute bands.
Back home, tribute acts were few and far between. Aside from the occasional Elvis impersonator—and, if I’m being truthful, I was never much of an Elvis fan—I had little exposure to performers dedicated to recreating the music and spectacle of legendary artists. Long Island, however, opened my eyes to an entirely different world.
One of the very first tribute bands I experienced was Mystic Rhythms – Rush Thru Time, and from the opening notes I was completely captivated.
This wasn’t simply a group of musicians playing Rush songs. It was a carefully crafted production that celebrated more than four decades of one of progressive rock’s most influential bands. Every detail was meticulously considered—from the unmistakable wigs and Geddy Lee-inspired prosthetic nose to the iconic Rickenbacker double-neck guitars and an impressive array of keyboards, synthesizer pedals, and electronic percussion.
The lineup featured:
- Paul Armento – Bass, Keyboards, Synth Pedals & Vocals
- Steve Longo – Guitars, Synth Pedals & Backing Vocals
- Adam Pliss – Drums & Electronic Percussion
Together, they created what felt less like a tribute act and more like a genuine Rush concert experience.
Between 2017 and 2018, the band presented Rush Thru Time at venues including The Paramount in Huntington, New York. Rather than offering a greatest-hits performance, the show was designed as an ambitious, theatrical journey through Rush’s remarkable career. Fans were treated to everything from the band’s early progressive masterpieces to synth-era favorites such as Distant Early Warning, all supported by concert-quality lighting, synchronized electronics, and painstaking attention to the details that Rush fans know so well.
The production also arrived at the perfect time. With Rush having retired from touring, Rush Thru Time gave fans an opportunity to once again experience the scale, musicianship, and excitement of a full Rush performance.
For me, one moment stands out above all the others.
Standing at the edge of the stage directly in front of “Alex,” I completely lost myself in the performance. Looking up at Steve Longo, hearing every familiar riff played with remarkable precision, it genuinely felt as though I had been transported to an actual Rush concert. For a few hours, disbelief disappeared, and the music took over.
That, to me, is the highest compliment any tribute band can receive.
Following the success of the large-scale Rush Thru Time production, Mystic Rhythms returned their focus to performing outstanding regional club and theater shows. While the elaborate theatrical presentation may have been retired, the musicianship and passion that made the band so special never disappeared.
Like many great tribute acts, the members eventually went their separate ways, bringing an end to one of Long Island’s most memorable Rush experiences.
Still, Rush fans are eternal optimists.
Perhaps one day, Mystic Rhythms will reunite for one final performance. If they do, you can be sure there will be plenty of fans—myself included—ready to take one more journey through time.
Long Island Sounds 