I’m tracking the setlists and adding any new songs to my Rush concert prep playlist.
The vast majority of drummers out there don’t wear gloves, and don’t have calluses at all, let alone an inch thick. Calluses would generally come from improper technique (stick gripping).
From what I’ve heard so far, Anika is doing a fine job. I listened to the first show and she sounded a little stiff, but I think that was nerves, which would be very understandable considering the big shoes she is filling. But she nailed all the classic parts and the band sounded really good.
There’s a great video shot of her right after she finishes the fills section of Tom Sawyer that first night where she and Alex share a big grin as the crowd roars.