In a year with so many outstanding releases, it is no surprise to have another one to add to the list. The next impressive album to come out in 2025, is the new album from the group DarWin, the ever-evolving project led by guitarist/songwriter DarWin and drumming icon Simon Phillips (Toto, Jeff Beck, The Who, Judas Priest, Tears for Fears). DarWin’s ‘Distorted Mirror’ marks the sixth album from the group and their first release since 2018. It sees the ensemble returning with an impressive mix of technical mastery and melodic depth. Alongside Phillips and vocalist Matt Bissonette, the line-up features powerhouse contributions from Mohini Dey (bass), Greg Howe (guitars), Derek Sherinian (keyboards).
The album opens with the instrumental “Rising Distortion,” a gradually building piece that sets the tone with atmosphere before erupting into fierce guitar work, highlighted by Greg Howe’s dazzling shredding. The title track, meanwhile, immediately shifts gears into a heavier mode, balancing sharp riffs with a melodic chorus, while Derek Sherinian’s unmistakable keyboard flourishes add progressive flair. The rest of the album delivers with high-energy rockers to poignant ballads, all the while adding gorgeous vocal harmonies and incredible guitar-playing.
“Man vs Machine” continues the high-energy drive, featuring a dynamic chorus rich in harmonies and shifting grooves. Track four, “33rd Century Man,” has an undeniable Toto vibe, with lead vocals that at times echo the smooth phrasing of Steve Lukather. “Cry A River” is a fast tempo rocker that delivers another a soaring, memorable hook. Later, guest vocalist Andrew Freeman steps for “Loophole,” adding grit and urgency to one of the album’s best tracks, while Mohini Dey’s driving bass line gives the track some extra punch. Greg Howe’s playing on this album is truly remarkable and he delivers another technical masterpiece on “Loophole.” You can see a video of his solo here: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/N6GRkojE5QU
While the first half of Distorted Mirror leans heavily on hard-hitting rock tracks, the second half explores a more reflective side of DarWin’s songwriting. This balance culminates in the closing track, “Winter Fare,” a piano-led piece of striking beauty that gently nods again to the Toto influence, providing a poignant, contemplative ending. This is another brilliant track and a nice closing to the album.
In this exceptional year for music, DarWin’s ‘Distorted Mirror’ should not take a backset to any release. For prior fans of the band or the players, this is a wonderful collection of well-crafted songs that have memorable hooks, while simultaneously presenting some of the best instrumentation you will hear this year.
Released on Sept. 26th, 2025
Songs
1. Rising Distortion (3:01)
2. Distorted Mirror (6:25)
3. Man vs. Machine (6:22)
4. 33rd Century Man (5:41)
5. Cry a River (6:01)
6. Glow (5:04)
7. Loophole (6:25)
8. Winter Fare (6:49)
Total Time 45:48
DarWin / guitars
Simon Phillips / drums & percussion
Matt Bissonette / lead vocals
With:
Mohini Dey / bass
Greg Howe / guitars
Derek Sherinian / keyboards
J3PO / keyboards
Andrew Freeman / vocals (7)
