Alex Lifeson’s Band Envy of None Supports UN Refugee Relief with New Charity Single

Envy of None, the band fronted by Rush guitarist Alex Lifeson, has released a new three-track digital single titled The Thrill. The collection features three versions of “Thrill of the Chase,” a track from the band’s sophomore album Stygian Wavz, which was released earlier this year in March.

The single includes the original album version of “Thrill of the Chase,” a demo titled “The Chase,” and an alternate take called “The Thrill.” It is now available for streaming and digital download across all major platforms, providing fans with fresh perspectives on the song.

Band Members Reflect on “Thrill of the Chase”

Envy of None features Lifeson on guitar and various string instruments; Andy Curran, formerly of Coney Hatch, on bass, keyboards, guitar, and backing vocals; Maiah Wynne handling lead and backing vocals as well as keyboards; and Alf Annibalini on guitar and keyboards.

Curran described “Thrill of the Chase” as one of the last songs completed for Stygian Wavz. “It started with Alf’s funky demo,” he said. “Maiah was enthusiastic about finishing it, and we wanted to add something more upbeat to the album. Although the track is a little unconventional stylistically, it fit perfectly. It has a cool, funky, and positive vibe, especially in the dance party-style outro.”

Annibalini added:

“At first, this track seemed like an unusual choice for the album, but once Maiah added her vocals, it gave Envy of None a new yet familiar sound. And as a fun extra, the remix features a cowbell.”

Limited-Edition Vinyl Single Supports Ukraine Relief Efforts

A limited-edition 12-inch colored vinyl pressing of The Thrill is scheduled for release on November 1. All proceeds from sales will be donated to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), supporting humanitarian aid for those affected by the conflict in Ukraine.

The vinyl is available for pre-order now through Envy of None’s official online store at $50. Autographed copies cost $100, and a $1,000 package includes a signed vinyl plus a 30-minute Zoom conversation with the band.

Envy of None initially partnered with UNHCR in 2022 by releasing a vinyl single featuring the colors of the Ukrainian flag. The band released a statement reaffirming their ongoing commitment:

“It is both heartbreaking and frustrating that three years after launching our support for Ukraine amid Russia’s invasion, we must once again ask for your help. Every contribution counts. Our hope is that our collective efforts can relieve some of their suffering—and that this will be the last time we need to do so.”

The statement continued:

“While some of Ukraine’s strongest allies seem to have lost interest or tacitly endorse Russia’s campaign of terror, we feel compelled to do what we can. We’re proud of the work we’ve accomplished and remain committed to making a positive difference. By purchasing this record, you’re helping to ease the burden on those in need. Thank you for your generosity and kindness.”

New Animated Music Video Puts a Creative Spin on “The Thrill”

To coincide with the single’s release, Envy of None premiered an animated music video for “The Thrill.” The video features puppet-like versions of the band members as they embark on a mission to stop an alien antagonist named Capt. Rupert McNebula, who has declared war on music.

The band pursues the villain across diverse landscapes, eventually cornering him in a tundra. Their powerful musical performance defeats the alien, who disappears, and the video concludes with the group celebrating and dancing outside the iconic Studio 54 nightclub—symbolizing the triumph of music over adversity.