The Scotiabank Arena throbbed with anticipation Friday night, a homecoming for Triumph after three decades. This wasn’t simply a reunion; it was a re-ignition of a rock and roll engine, meticulously rebuilt and roaring with newfound power.
Original members Gil Moore, commanding the drums and vocals, and Rik Emmett, showcasing his legendary guitar work, were joined by a formidable force. Guitarist Phil X, known for his work with Bon Jovi, and bassist Todd Kerns, a veteran of Slash’s band, injected fresh energy, seamlessly sharing lead vocal duties and elevating the performance.
The band acknowledged the passage of time with a brief video montage dubbed the “Time Canon,” before launching into “When The Lights Go Down.” Moore’s voice, still potent, resonated through the arena, a declaration: “We’ve taken a couple of decades off but we’re here to rock your socks off!”
Emmett followed with “Somebody’s Out There,” his guitar skills immediately on display. The surprise addition of Kerns on lead vocals for “Spellbound” proved a masterstroke, showcasing his impressive range and adding depth to the set. Phil X’s contributions were equally impactful, particularly when he took the lead on “Allied Forces.”
A playful moment arrived when Emmett joked about his grandchildren being in the audience before introducing “Hold On,” a song penned nearly half a century ago. The stage became a dynamic space, with Moore frequently moving from his drum kit to engage directly with the crowd.
The dual guitar attack of Emmett and Phil X during “Blinding Light Show” was electrifying, a testament to their combined virtuosity. Similarly, the simultaneous drumming of Moore and Brent Fritz created a powerful, layered soundscape that intensified the energy.
The title track, “Rock & Roll Machine,” exploded with fireworks and a captivating guitar solo from Emmett, leaving the audience breathless. Moore then led the band through a spirited cover of Joe Walsh’s “Rocky Mountain Way,” featuring individual solos from Emmett, Phil X, and Fritz.
The crowd responded with fervor to beloved anthems like “Never Surrender” and “Lay It On The Line,” singing along with every word. “Magic Power” resonated deeply, its lyrics – “I’m young, and I’m wild, and I want to be free” – capturing the spirit of the night.
The encore began with Moore’s impassioned rendition of “I Live For The Weekend,” before Emmett brought the evening to a triumphant close with “Fight The Good Fight.” The performance was a celebration of a legacy, a testament to enduring musicianship, and a promise of more to come.
Opening the night was April Wine, a fellow pillar of Canadian rock. Despite the recent loss of frontman Myles Goodwyn, the band delivered a 40-minute set packed with hits, including “Oowatanite,” “You Could Have Been A Lady,” and a poignant dedication to Goodwyn during “Just Between You and Me.”
