The Price of Progress: A Soul in Peril | New World Man | Rush

Rush's "New World Man" is a thought-provoking song that explores themes of technology, progress, and humanity's relationship with machines. The song was released on the band's 1979 album Hemispheres, and it features Neil Peart's intricate drumming and Geddy Lee's soaring vocals.

The lyrics of "New World Man" paint a vivid picture of a future where humans are increasingly reliant on technology to survive. The opening lines, "I'm a new world man / I've got the power / I can make my own decisions," suggest a sense of empowerment and independence, but this sentiment is quickly tempered by the realization that our reliance on machines has also led to a loss of humanity.

Throughout the song, Peart's lyrics touch on the consequences of embracing technology at the expense of human connection. He sings about people being reduced to mere automatons, performing tasks without any sense of purpose or fulfillment. The chorus, "New world man / I'm just trying to stay alive," drives home the idea that our dependence on machines has come at a cost: we've lost touch with what it means to be truly human.

Musically, "New World Man" is a standout track in Rush's discography. Peart's drumming is as always impressive, and Lee's vocals are both powerful and nuanced. The song features a memorable guitar riff and a driving rhythm that propels the listener forward.

Ultimately, "New World Man" is a cautionary tale about the dangers of becoming too reliant on technology. It's a warning that we should be careful not to sacrifice our humanity in the pursuit of progress. As Peart sings in the song's final moments, "I'm just trying to stay alive / In this new world man."