Review: Rush, featuring explosive drummer Anika Nilles, turns reunion tour into joyful celebration of life

On the first of four sold-out nights at Chicago’s United Center, Anika Nilles arrived poised to upend the expectations of one of rock’s most famously male-dominated audiences. Steadfast Rush fans proved to be absolutely ready for it. The veteran Canadian progressive rock trio had ceased activity following its R40 tour in 2015. The shutdown was largely attributed to drummer and lyricist Neil Peart’s wishes to retire after decades of wear due to the punishing physicality of his playing and to…