Rush in 5.1 surround

Not sure I understand the point of translating music (at least the sort performed by a band or orchestra) into surround sound. If the sound stage is in front of the listener, where ones hearing is by far the best and most direction-sensitive, then what would be put into rear channels and why?

Music that's conceived of from the very beginning as a surround experience would be another thing altogether, and I could imagine this being done successfully by the likes of Laurie Anderson, Kraftwerk, Underworld, etc.. But when the music is conceived of as being performed live on a stage, I don't want to hear detached parts of it creeping up over my shoulder.

You use the rear channels to get a feeling of being in the space its played in, if you see Classical or even rock the music doesnt stop at your ear, it is all around you, and a good multi-channel mix can do a good job of filling your room with that feeling of being there....to a degree.

Shadorne, you should have a listen to Counterparts remastered. Actually if you like the band you should hear all the remasters. They have done a great job with them.

I just hope the songwriting has got better.

I cant wait for the the new album...Though I agree with Shadorne re past recordings. Ghost, do you have Replayx3 dvd. I think by far the best sounding yet...