The Players
Mike Deyo
Bass / Keyboards / Triggers
Mike’s love for Rush started in 1978 and “2112 – For The Love Of Rush” is an ongoing chapter to this nearly 40 year devotion. Mike formed “2112 – For The Love Of Rush” in 2004 recruiting Phil Jones and presenting our first show in 2005. A highlight in Mike’s tribute career was being a part of the documentary “For The Love Of Rush” which documented Rush tribute bands in Canada and the USA.
Mike continues his love and devotion to Rush’s fans by arranging and performing Bass Guitar, Keyboards, effects and triggers required to accurately and entertainingly emulate the live and studio sound of Rush’s earlier career at every 2112 performance.
Dean McNeill
Vocals
For 40 years, Dean has fronted bands in Germany, Halifax, Toronto, Ottawa, Burlington and Hamilton. Memorable gigs have included opening for Nazareth and National Velvet, a Much Music appearance, studio background vocals for One to One, and a national tour with Burlington-based band Daggar. Dean has also fronted tribute bands to some of his favourite bands, including Led Zeppelin, Deep Purple, Journey, and, of course, Rush.
Dean was the original singer for 2112 back in 2006. Other entertainment credits have included a national tour as a cast member with the Mirvish production of RENT, as well as lead and principal roles in My Fair Lady, Anne of Green Gables, Joey the Musical, Company, and Grease. Dean is thrilled to be returning to 2112, as Geddy Lee has been an important part of his vocal influences, and the music of Rush has always been close to his heart.
Phil Jones
Guitar / Triggers
Phil started playing guitar at age 10. At 19 one of his friends asked how much he remembered, and convinced him to learn a few songs and start a band. To his surprise he enjoyed the process of learning and playing songs, and it was at this time that he realized that he had found his “thing.” Since then he hasn’t looked back and has played in many cover bands, including tributes to The Doors and Stone Temple Pilots.
Back in 2005 Phil answered Mike’s call looking for a guitarist, and this was the beginning of 2112. Phil has been a big Rush fan since age 16, when he bought their first live album – All The Worlds A Stage (which blew him away!). Phil is excited to be back in 2112, playing all the great Rush songs he loves.
Ray Hepworth
Drums / Percussion