Totem
Rush · Other Songs - Rush
The Garden of Allah, Viking Valhalla
A miracle once in a while
I've got a pantheon of animals in a pagan soul
Vishnu and Gaia -- Aztec and Maya
Dance around my totem pole
I believe in what I see
I believe in what I hear
I believe that what I'm feeling
Changes how the world appears
Angels and demons dancing in my head
Lunatics and monsters underneath my bed
Media messiahs preying on my fears
Pop culture prophets playing in my ears
I've got celestial mechanics
To synchronize my stars
Seasonal migrations -- daily variations
World of the unlikely and bizarre
I've got idols and icons, unspoken holy vows
Thoughts to keep well-hidden --
Sacred and forbidden
Free to browse among the holy cows
That's why I believe
Angels and demons inside of me
Saviors and Satans all around me
Sweet chariot, swing low, coming for me
Totem
Totem stands as a defining track from Rush's early progressive rock period, showcasing the band's signature blend of complex rhythms and introspective themes. Released during their formative years, the song highlights the tight interplay between Geddy Lee's bass, Alex Lifeson's guitar, and Neil Peart's drumming. The recording captures the group's transition from straightforward rock into more intricate compositions that would later define their expansive discography. While often overshadowed by later hits, the track remains a testament to the band's ability to weave philosophical concepts into accessible rock structures. It reflects a time when the trio was solidifying their unique sound, balancing technical proficiency with emotional depth. This work remains an essential listen for understanding the evolution of their musical identity before they achieved global superstardom.