Tag: Entertainment

Shinedown’s Brent Smith Previews Musikfest Performance, New Smith & Myers Single, “Bad At Love”

Photo: Sanjay Parikh

What began as a happy accident six years ago, Smith & Myers, a music project featuring Shinedown’s Brent Smith and Zach Myers, has quickly become one of music’s most ubiquitous duos. The pair’s latest single, “Bad At Love” continues that trend with a vulnerable and personal perspective detailing the difficulties of staying in a romantic relationship while realizing the breakup doesn’t always have to be a negative.

While the infectious new Smith & Myers single churns the Shinedown machine is gearing up for a round of touring following last year’s cancellations due to Covid-19. On deck is the band’s rescheduled performance at Musikfest in Bethlehem, PA on Monday, August 9th.

Shinedown is also set to release the long-awaited film, “Attention Attention,” which brings to life the story of the band’s acclaimed 2018 album of the same name. A visual and auditory experience, the film takes the viewer on a psychological and emotional journey from life’s lowest lows to the highest of highs. “Attention Attention” will be released on September 3rd.

I recently spoke with Shinedown’s Brent Smith, who previewed the band’s show in Bethlehem as well as the new Smith & Myers single, “Bad At Love.” We also discussed Shinedown’s upcoming film and more in this exclusive new interview.

What can fans expect from Shinedown’s upcoming Musikfest performance?

Smith: We’re back to doing large shows which is overwhelmingly emotional. This tour was ten months in the making, with everyone working to make sure we do this with extra effort into everyone’s safety. We’re bringing out the big guns on this one. All the bells and whistles and what the audience wants to hear.

Let’s discuss the new Smith & Myers single, “Bad at Love.” How did this project begin and what can you tell me about the single?

Smith: That first time we did an album as Smith & Myers was back in 2014. It was an all-covers album that the fans picked. This time we decided to do a double album; ten covers in the way that we do them and ten original songs that Zach and I wrote together. “Bad At Love” was the very first song that we wrote. In the song, being bad at love is not primarily a negative. What I mean by that is that traditional stories of romance are love is found, love doesn’t last, and love is lost. It’s a sad ending but it doesn’t have to be that way. I can count on one hand how many real relationships I’ve been in in my life. All of these women I’ve been with were heavy relationships and sometimes it just didn’t work out. Sure, we may not be together but we’re still friends. This song is about understanding that it’s ok. You don’t have to believe that love is always a dramatic sad ending if it doesn’t work out.

Read the rest of my

Interview with Brent Smith by Clicking Here

‘By Request’: A.J. Croce Discusses Covers Album, Upcoming Performance At New Hope Winery

Photo: Joshua Black Wilkins

He may be the son of the legendary Jim Croce but for more than two decades A.J. Croce has been traveling his own musical road. The multi-talented pianist, singer/songwriter who was born in Bryn Mawr, PA, has had his soulful music appear on a variety of music charts, including the Top 40, Americana, College and Jazz.

The idea for Croce’s most recent album, By Request, came from his love of entertaining friends in his home. It’s an ubiquitous album which finds the Croce not only paying homage to some of his favorite musical memories from artists like Billy Preston, Faces, The Five Stairsteps and Tom Waits, but also celebrating friendship and camaraderie.

Fans will get to experience a multitude of songs from the artist’s work, including a few songs from his father’s catalog, on Friday, August 6, when Croce performs an intimate show at New Hope Winery in New Hope, PA.

I recently spoke with A.J. Croce about his upcoming performane in New Hope, his album, By Request, and more in this exclusive new interview.

What can fans expect from your upcoming performance at New Hope Winery?

Croce: It’s a duo concert and very intimate show. David Berard, who’s played bass with Dr. John for more than thirty years and with so many other artists, will be with me playing and singing. I usually hate sticking to a set list so it will be a lot of fun to have the flexibility to just pull things out of thin air and work with the feeling and the moment.

Does the area hold any kind of special meaning for you?

Croce: Absolutely. I was born in Bryn Mawr and have visited the area just about every year since I was born. My grandmother is in Philly, my godmother is in Phoenixville and I have aunts, uncles and cousins that live in the area as well.

Read the rest of my

Interview with A.J. Croce By Clicking Here

Sellersville Theater concert preview: Dream Theater keyboard player Jordan Rudess discusses his musical journey and rock roots

Jordan Rudess (Photo Nidhal MARZOUK)

Jordan Rudess is perhaps best known as the keyboardist/multi-instrumentalist for the platinum-selling progressive rock band Dream Theater and the side project, Liquid Tension Experiment. But Rudess, a classically trained virtuoso from the age of 10, has also worked with the likes of Deep Purple, The Dixie Dregs and David Bowie among many others. 

He’s also the owner of Wizdom Music, an application development company that makes award-winning apps for keyboard synthesizers.

At 8 p.m. June 25, Rudess brings his solo piano tour to the Sellersville Theater in Sellersville. Tickets are available for $33-45 at st94.com 215-257-5808. Limited seats remain but a livestream is available.

The show, dubbed ‘A Chapter in Time,’ will document Rudess’ musical journey — which began in grade school, then to Julliard and progressed to his work with Dream Theater and Liquid Tension Experiment. Rudess will also explore improvised selections from his progressive rock roots as well as his beautiful new album, ‘A Chapter in Time.’

In addition to Rudess’ performance on the Sellersville stage, a livestream is available for fans with COVID safety concerns. All livestream ticket holders will be emailed a link to enjoy the show.

I spoke with Rudess about his upcoming performance as well as his latest album.

James Wood for The Morning Call: What can fans expect from your upcoming Sellersville Theater performance?

Rudess: “I love doing these piano shows because the piano is my home territory. As much as people know me as the Dream Theater keyboardist the piano is where it all started. When I do these events, it’s a chance for me to let my musical spirit out. I’ll play Bach, some Chopin and improvise or play arrangements of progressive rock, Dream Theater and Liquid Tension Experiment. I’m happy I chose the piano because its wide range allows me to do this kind of thing. People can expect to hear a full representation of who I am musically and get a feel for all the things I’m involved with.”

Did you always know music would be your calling?

“Honestly, I did. The short version is that I had been playing piano in my second-grade classroom. My teacher called my mom and told her how I was playing so beautifully. My mom told her she must be talking about someone else, because I didn’t play. No one in my family was involved in the arts or even played an instrument, although my mother always liked music. Once she heard I was playing it sparked her imagination and a few days later a white piano arrived at the house. I started taking lessons and never looked back.”

Read the rest of my

Interview with Jordan Rudess by Clicking Here.

Foreigner Returns To The Road With 121-Date Tour Across 16 Countries

Foreigner – Photo credit: Bill Bernstein

Universally hailed as one of the most popular rock acts in the world, Foreigner‘s timeless anthems include ten multi-platinum albums and 16 US Billboard Top 30. With a formidable musical arsenal that includes monster hits like “I Want To Know What Love Is,” “Cold As Ice,” “Waiting For A Girl Like You,” “Hot Blooded,” “Juke Box Hero,” the band continues to propel sold-out tours and album sales, 

Foreigner is bringing these hits back to concert stages across the world with the recent announcement of a new, 121-date concert tour across sixteen countries.  

The US leg of FOREIGNER’s world tour will take the band to 71 cities in 42 states. Dates are listed below. For tickets and more information, visit www.foreigneronline.com

FOREIGNER is: Mick Jones (guitar), Kelly Hansen (lead vocals), Jeff Pilson (bass, vocals), Michael Bluestein (keyboards, vocals), Bruce Watson (guitar, vocals), Chris Frazier (drums) and Luis Carlos Maldonado (guitar, vocals). 

Thursday, June 24                     Ottumwa, IA – Bridge View Center

Friday, June 25                          Sioux Falls, SD – Washington Pavilion

Saturday, June 26                      Bismarck, ND – Bismarck Civic Center

Tuesday, June 29                      Casper, WY – Casper Events Center

Wednesday, June 30                 Billings, MT – MetraPark Arena

Friday, July 2                             Welch, MN – Treasure Island Great Lawn 

Sunday, July 4                           Fort Bragg, NC – Pope Army Airfield

Tuesday, July 27                        Fresno, CA – Saroyan Theatre

Wednesday, July 28                  Prescott Valley, AZ – Findlay Toyota Center

Friday, July 30                           West Valley, UT – Maverick Center

Saturday, July 31                       Grand Junction, CO – Los Colonias Park Amphitheater

Sunday, August 1                      Rio Rancho, NM – Rio Rancho Events Center

Wednesday, August 4                Lubbock, TX – Buddy Holly Hall

Thursday, August 5                   Enid, OK – Stride Bank Center

Saturday, August 7                    Park City, KS – Hartman Arena

Sunday, August 8                      North Little Rock, AR – Simmons Bank Arena

Tuesday, August 10                   West Allis, WI – Wisconsin State Fair

Wednesday, August 11              Cedar Rapids, IA – McGrath Amphitheatre

Friday, August 13                      Arcadia, WI – Ashley For The Arts

Saturday, August 14                  Interlochen, MI – Kresge Auditorium

Sunday, August 15                    Peoria, IL – Civic Center Arena

Tuesday, August 17                   Kettering, OH – Fraze Pavilion

Wednesday, August 18              Nashville, TN – Ryman Auditorium

Friday, August 20                      Doswell, VA – AfterHours at Meadow Event Park

Saturday, August 21                  Selbyville, DE – The Freeman Stage at Bayside

Monday, August 23                   Syracuse, NY – New York State Fair

Wednesday, August 25              Bridgeport, CT – Hartford Healthcare Amphitheatre 

Thursday, August 26                 Webster, MA – Indian Ranch

Friday, August 27                      Cohasset, MA – South Shore Music Circus

Saturday, August 28                  Hyannis, MA – Cape Cod Melody Tent

Thursday, September 9            Grand Forks, ND – Alerus Center

Friday, September 10                Rapid City, SD – Rushmore Plaza Civic Center

Saturday, September 11            Butte, MT – Civic Center

Tuesday, September 14            Everett, WA – Angel of the Winds Arena

Wednesday, September 15       Nampa, ID – Ford Idaho Event Center

Thursday, September 16           Airway Heights, WA – Northern Quest Resort & Casino

Saturday, September 18            Fort Hall, ID – Fort Hall Casino

Tuesday, September 21             Bend, OR – Les Schwab Amphitheater

Wednesday, September 22       Kennewick, WA – Toyota Center

Sunday, September 26              Reno, NV – Grand Theatre at Grand Sierra Resort

Wednesday, September 29       Saratoga, CA – Mountain Winery (orchestral)

Friday, October 1                      Los Angeles, CA – Greek Theatre (orchestral)

Saturday, October 2                  Santa Barbara, CA – Santa Barbara Bowl (orchestral)

Monday, October 11                 Detroit, MI – Fox Theatre (orchestral)

Tuesday, October 12                 Youngstown, OH – Foundation Amphitheater (orchestral)

Wednesday, October 13            Grand Rapids, MI – Van Andel Arena (orchestral)

Friday, October 15                    Johnson City, TN – Freedom Hall Civic Center

Sunday, October 17                   Knoxville, TN – Civic Auditorium

Monday, October 18                 Columbus, OH – Palace Theatre

Tuesday, October 19                 Charleston, WV – Municipal Auditorium

Thursday, October 21                Reading, PA – Santander Performing Arts Center

Friday, October 22                    Wilkes Barre, PA – F.M. Kirby Center

Saturday, October 23                Baltimore, MD – MECU Pavilion

Monday, October 25                 Providence, RI – Performing Arts Center

Wednesday, October 27            Port Chester, NY – Capitol Theatre

Thursday, October 28                Hampton Beach, NH – Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom

Friday, October 29                    New Brunswick, NJ – State Theatre

Saturday, October 30                Atlantic City, NJ – Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena

Thursday, November 4              Corbin, KY – Corbin Arena

Friday, November 5                   Springfield, IL – UIS Sangamon Auditorium

Saturday, November 6               Southaven, MS – Landers Center

Monday, November 8               Savannah, GA – John Mercer Theatre

Tuesday, November 9               Augusta, GA – Bell Auditorium

Wednesday, November 10        Greenville, SC – Bon Secours Wellness Arena

Friday, November 12                 Macon, GA – Macon City Auditorium

Saturday, November 13             Tupelo, MS – Bancorp South Arena

Sunday, November 14               Brandon, MS – Brandon Amphitheater

Tuesday, November 16              Huntsville, AL – Mark C. Smith Concert Hall

Wednesday, November 17        Birmingham, AL – BJCC Concert Hall

Friday, November 19                 Biloxi, MS – IP Casino Resort & Spa

Saturday, November 20             Pensacola, FL – Saenger Theater

Interview: Guitar legend Steve Howe Discusses Asia’s New Box Set – ‘The Reunion Albums: 2007-2012’

Left to Right: Geoff Downes, Steve Howe, Carl Palmer & John Wetton

Multi-platinum selling supergroup Asia are celebrating their 40th anniversary with new 5-CD boxset, The Reunion Albums: 2007-2012. The package includes the three albums (PhoenixOmega and XXX) that reunited original members John Wetton, Steve Howe, Carl Palmer and Geoff Downes. The reunion albums are presented together in a collector’s boxset designed by Roger Dean, who produced all of the artwork on the original albums.

A dual-CD live recording, Fantasia: Live in Tokyo rounds out the package and features many of the tracks from the band’s first two albums, Asia (1982) and Alpha (1983) as well as heritage tracks from each band member’s musical history. The live concert also includes an acoustic version of Ride Easy, a B-side from the band’s debut single, Heat of the Moment, performed for the first time.

We spoke with guitarist Steve Howe about the new boxset, 50 years of Yes’s landmark single Roundabout, and his undying love for Martin guitars…

How did The Reunion Albums: 2007-2012 boxset come about?

“Because there hasn’t been much touring, there were discussions with management about the idea of taking a look at those three albums which had recently returned to our ownership.

“When I listened back to PhoenixOmega and XXX, it was a delight to put them in perspective. It was a very productive period for the band. Phoenix has a bit more intricacies and proggy bits and the other albums are a development from that starting point. So we decided to put together a boxset with Roger Dean and everyone else who’s worked with us. It’s marvelous.”

The set includes the 2CD live concert Fantasia, Live in Tokyo from 2007. Did the idea to do a full-on reunion album build out of that tour?

“When we met in 2006, Geoff said he and John were starting to write together and that there was enthusiasm from Japan, America and England. At the time, Yes had taken a hiatus and I thought, ‘Great! I hadn’t played this music in years.’ My only pre-condition was that we would play the songs more meticulously than we did in the old days.

You can read the rest of my

with Steve Howe by Clicking Here.

Lehigh Valley native John Morgan Kimock talks about his atmospheric electronic music and playing with members of Grateful Dead

A Lehigh Valley native, drummer John Morgan Kimock’s music can best be described as the soundtrack you’d hear while taking an ethereal hike or walk through the forest.

Photo by Mandy Pichler

Kimock attended Notre Dame High School for one year and the Lehigh Valley Charter High School for the Performing Arts, where he studied drums, for three.

He also played with local musicians, including Post Junction and the Octave Below, in Lehigh Valley musical venues such as Godfrey Daniels, The Funhouse, Pearly Baker’s and Porters’ Pub.

His latest album, “Hikikomori,” released in March, is a patchwork quilt of organic, cinematic atmosphere. Although a primarily drum-focused compilation, it’s one that is also uniquely rich with layers of instrumentation and experimental sound.

I recently spoke with John Morgan Kimock about his music and more.

James Wood: How would you describe your music in terms of its sound? Is there a way you could put into words what your music is all about?

Kimock: “It’s cinematic, psychedelic, and made with both electronic and organic instruments. I like to say that if you took a drive or went somewhere to clear your head, my music is a good companion to go with the visual.”

Was this the type of music you always aspired to do?

“It was all kind of a big happy accident. Like any career, you make connections and eventually they start to pile up. Then all of sudden, you find yourself doing something you never thought you’d do. My dad [Steve Kimock] is a musician who grew up in the Lehigh Valley and I attribute a lot of my drumming career to him. He hired me a lot when I was in my late teens and early 20′s.

“Through that, I was able to meet people at shows and festivals and would wind up getting hired on to do something else. The music I make now has a lot to do with my love of instrumental and movie music. Music that accompanies a video and comes with a visual element. The music is certainly honest, and I enjoy sharing it with others.”

Read the rest of my Morning Call Interview with John Kimock By Clicking Here.

ArtsQuest concert preview: Guitarist Samantha Fish talks about the blues, her new album and raw, rock trio show

Photo: Kaelen Barowsky

Anyone who’s heard guitar maven Samantha Fish’s previous albums knows she’s developed an uncanny knack for combining elements of contemporary blues with guitar ferocity and visceral emotion.

Her most recent album, 2019′s “Kill Or Be Kind,” is reflective of that. It’s the first album to feature Fish as the sole guitarist and is rooted deep in the Delta, with a strong Memphis undertone.

Fish will bring her energy, and guitar, to Bethlehem’s SteelStacks 7 p.m. Friday, April 16, for an outdoor performance at the Highmark Blue Shield Community Stage on the Air Products Town Square. For this round of shows, she has stripped her band down to a three-piece unit, giving her the flexibility and freedom of extending lead breaks with dynamic improvisation.

CDC guidelines for proper social distancing and to provide a safe dining experience for all patrons will be in place at the performance, and Levitt Pavilion lawn spots will be spaced out accordingly. Food and beverages will be available via the Mack Truck Stop and bar on the lawn. No outside food or drink will be permitted.

I recently spoke with Samantha Fish about her upcoming show at SteelStacks. We also discuss her latest album, “Kill Or Be Kind,” memorable moments, and what makes blues such a great form of music.

As an artist, how has it been going for you this past year with touring being canceled due to COVID-19?

Samantha Fish: “Some days are better than others. The industry itself has changed so much over the last 10 years and performers now have to be on the road to have any kind of career. To have it all go away suddenly was a little jarring. It took me several months to truly understand that we were going to be in this for the long haul.”

Read the rest of my of my Interview with Samantha Fish by Clicking Here.

Interview: Linda Perry Discusses Two-Day ‘Rock ’N’ Relief Concert Series & Live Stream Event’

LINDA PERRY

Legendary producer & Hall of Fame songwriter  has curated and is set to take part in this weekend’s two-day (& Live Stream) at L.A. City and mass vaccination site at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on March 5 and 6. CORE (Community Organized Relief Effort) is a non-profit organization started by Sean Penn and Ann Lee that has worked tirelessly, and without any government funding, to provide access to free Covid-19 testing and vaccines across Los Angeles.

This two-day live stream will benefit CORE’s life-saving programs as well as raise money for CORE’s mobile vaccination. A program which brings access to the vaccine directly to low-income and communities of color who need it most. Perry’s Rock n’ Relief concert aims to give the community live entertainment, in the safety of their cars, while they wait to receive the vaccine.

Hosted by DJ Kat Corbett of SiriusXM & KROQ, the lineup for this two-day concert series features live performances from artists like Miguel, Macy Gray, Scream, DJ Adam Bravin (She Wants Revenge), Macy Gray, Willa Ami, Juliette Lewis, Donita Sparks (L7 & Friends), Linda Perry, Pete Molinari, Kevin Bacon, Silversun Pickups, Jen Awad, Aloe Blacc, Mariachi Lindas Mexicanas, Troy Noka and house band Flashback Heart Attack. The series also includes digital performances from artists around the world, including Carly Simon w/ David Saw, Foo Fighters, Deadmau5, Gavin Rossdale, Pete Yorn, James Blunt, Jewel, Gary Barlow, Tracy Bonham, Deborah Cox, Shaed, Sheryl Crow, Sammy Hagar and Jenny Lewis & Blake of Rilo Kiley.

I recently spoke with Perry about the Rock N’ Relief Concert Series, her involvement with CORE, songwriting and much more in this exclusive new interview.

What’s it been like for you as an artist (and person) living during these uncertain times?

Linda Perry: I feel very focused, clear, creative, and determined to be of service in any way that I can. There’s a lot going on in the world right now. There are people who are dying and others who’ve lost stores they’ve spent their whole lives building. I’m extremely grateful to be alive and that my family is healthy and safe.

How did you become involved with CORE and what inspired this event?

LP: I first got involved with Sean Penn when I scored the documentary he made about his organization going to help Haiti to assist after the earthquake in 2010 and how they’re continuing to help them. Here in L.A, Sean’s CORE Response has been out for eight months. With zero government funding they’ve given out five million covid tests for free. Now they’ve given over 450,000 vaccinations (12,000 a day). I decided to help raise money for the mobile units they’re putting together to go across the county and in places like New Orleans and Chicago. There are a lot of people in the Latino community who are struggling to get to this sight to get vaccinated and older people who can’t sit in a two-hour line. They need someone to come to them. That’s why me, my team and the artists got involved. It’s a human cause to help each other get through this very difficult time. Seeing how people have come together to unite and take a stand to help the world in crisis has been a beautiful thing to see.

Read the rest of my
Interview with Linda Perry by Clicking Here.

Guitar hero Gary Hoey, coming to ArtsQuest, talks about touring with Ozzy Osbourne, Jeff Beck and Joe Satriani

Photo: David Brow

With a career spanning 22 albums in a multitude of styles ranging from rock, surf, blues, and metal, Gary Hoey is one of the prolific guitarists in music.

His unique style and popular “Ho! Ho! Hoey” series during the holiday season brought him legions of fans. Hoey has toured with guitar legends like Jeff Beck, Brian May, Ted Nugent and Joe Satriani. And as a producer, he’s worked with artists like Lita Ford, as well as scoring the soundtrack to the film, “The Endless Summer II.”

On Saturday, March 13, fans will be able to experience a unique taste of Hoey’s musical legacy when he brings his intimate Retrospective Solo Show to ArtsQuest’s Musikfest Cafe in Bethlehem.

The high-energy performance will feature Hoey along with backing tracks from his original albums. Fans can expect to hear songs including “Mass Hysteria,” “Drive,” and “Peace Pipe,” as well his cover versions of the Focus hit “Hocus Pocus,” and War’s “Low Rider.”

Hoey will also entertain the audience with a Q&A session and share behind-the-scenes stories, which will likely include his 1987 audition with Ozzy Osbourne — an experience that inspired his move to Los Angeles and launched his career.

ArtsQuest’s Musikfest Cafe will be following CDC guidelines for the show, including temperature checks prior to entry, mandatory mask-wearing and social distancing. SteelStacks also has upgraded and expanded its cleaning and disinfecting procedures before, during and after all events to ensure patrons’ safety.

I recently spoke with Hoey about his upcoming Lehigh Valley performance.

James Wood: As an artist, what’s it been like for you adjusting to the lockdown requirements?

Gary Hoey: “It’s been quite a year navigating … but like everyone else, we’ve been dealing with it one step at a time. Early on, I decided to go online and do more livestreaming to try to connect with the fans in a different way. It worked out well because it exposed me to a whole new fan base. I also do a coffee time with my mom where we hang out live on Facebook and have coffee. I also do a ‘Hang Out With Hoey’ where we play songs and do whatever we can to keep people engaged.”

What can fans expect from your upcoming SteelStacks performance?

“In this business, it’s about reinventing yourself and finding ways to take a difficult situation and make it better. The thing about doing these limited capacity shows is that the venue doesn’t make as much money and neither do I, but what’s important to me is to support these venues. So I decided to put together a solo tour. It’s an intimate show where I’ll do a little bit of storytelling and a retrospective of my 22 albums. There will be early stuff, surf, blues, metal, shred and acoustic. I want to give everyone a taste of my career and make it an interesting night.”

Read The Rest of My
Interview with Gary Hoey by Clicking Here!

‘Finding The Sun’: Steve Lukather Discusses His Ubiquitous New Solo Album

Photo: Alex Solca Photography

You’d be hard pressed to find someone with a music career more indelible than Steve Lukather. Best known to fans for his guitar work in the band Toto, Lukather has performed on thousands of albums as a session musician, including Michael Jackson’s Thriller, the best-selling album of all-time.

Luke’s new solo album, continues his legacy as the quintessential guitarist. Co-produced by Ken Freeman, Luke brings a rawness and energy to the eight-track collection. With original compositions like the ethereal title track, the jazz-infused “Journey Through,” the rocking “Along For The Ride,” and the slitherly “Serpent Soul,” Luke showcases the guitar prowess and versatility that made him one of the most in-demand session players. Also included in the new set is Luke’s take on obscure but powerful covers by Traffic (“Low Spark of High Heeled Boys,” ) Joe Walsh (“Welcome To The Club,”) and Robin Trower (“Bridge of Sighs.”) The result is an album of one or two-take performances, raw production and jam fades tastefully reminsiceint of 1970s recording.

Special guests on I Found The Sun Again include Gregg Bissonette (drums), Jeff Babko (keyboards), Jorgen Carlsson and John Pierce (bass), as well as Toto bandmates David Paich (piano and organ) and Joseph Williams (vocals). One of Luke’s idols, Ringo Starr, also appears on the album, performing on the fun and hook-laden track, “Run To Me.”

I recently spoke with Lukather about I Found The Sun Again, his writing process, session work and more in this exclusive new interview.

How would describe I Found The Sun Again in terms of its sound and how it relates to some of your previous work?

It’s the most honest and real thing I’ve ever done. It’s different in the fact that it’s under-produced and everything is played live. I purposely kept the song forms loose so that there would be room for improvisation and longer fades for the jams that happened. There are all sorts of moody things on this record: jazz elements and a lot of rock, second line Little Feat, the [Jimi] Hendrix vibe and a few pop songs on there, because I just love a good pop song. There’s also a piece where I get to do my Jeff Beck impression. We ran through the songs one time, and the second take was the record.

Read the rest of my
Interview with Steve Lukather by Clicking Here!