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Rush: The Unlikely Hipster Icon of 2026 Makes Triumphant Return at The Forum

In 2026, Rush has become the unexpected darling of the indie scene, with their Forum comeback solidifying their status as the cool kids' rock band of choice, eclipsing other contemporary acts.

Variety Music·Jun 16, 2026·via Variety Music

Rush: The Unlikely Hipster Icon of 2026 Makes Triumphant Return at The Forum

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Jun 16, 2026 3:26pm PT

How Did Rush Become the Hipster Band of 2026? A New Fan’s Appreciation of the ‘Fifty Something’ Band’s Triumphant Comeback at the Forum

By Chris Willman

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Chris Willman

Senior Music Writer and Chief Music Critic

ChrisWillman

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Step (or fly) aside, Geese. Circle back later, Turnstile. Take five and go flaccid, Viagra Boys. There can only be one rock band that is unquestionably and certifiably the cool kids’ choice in 2026, and whatever indie cred the rest of you may carry, this town ain’t big enough for you and Rush .

The reconstituted version of the recently dormant group just wrapped up a sold-out, tour-opening four-night stand at the Kia Forum that was a triumphantly climactic week in Rush’s unexpected reentry as a cultural and musical force in the 2020s. Two heroes walked into the Forum — Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson — and three walked out, as new drummer Anika Nilles may now be able to claim the title of the woman who’s most popular among American men at this particular moment. (And, sure, that newfound veneration extends to some women, too; Rush’s popularity is not as completely lopsided on the gender front as has been joked about for decades.)