In March 1981, Rush was experiencing a pivotal moment in their career, having just released their album "Permanent Waves" a year prior. This album marked a shift in their sound from progressive rock to a more accessible hard rock, incorporating elements of new wave. By the time of the live recording at the Montreal Forum, the band was promoting their subsequent album, "Moving Pictures," which would come out later the same year and solidify their place in rock history. The performance featured a medley that included fan favorites such as "By-Tor and the Snow Dog," "In the End," and "In the Mood," showcasing their technical prowess and the chemistry between bassist Geddy Lee, guitarist Alex Lifeson, and drummer Neil Peart. The concert was part of the concert film "Exit... Stage Left," further enhancing Rush's reputation for compelling live performances and intricate musicianship during this defining period of their career.