Steve Morse has long been regarded as one of the most respected guitarists in rock, admired not just by fans but by fellow musicians around the world. His tone, phrasing, and ability to constantly push forward and innovate have defined his career for decades. After briefly stepping away from prior music commitments following the passing of his wife, Morse returns with renewed focus and inspiration. Reuniting with longtime bandmates Dave LaRue on bass and Van Romaine on drums, he delivers Triangulation, the first new Steve Morse Band album in sixteen years.
The group’s last outing, 2009’s Out Standing In Their Field, came just before Morse and LaRue embarked on the Flying Colors adventure with Mike Portnoy, Neal Morse, and Casey McPherson. That project produced three acclaimed albums and tours, all while Morse continued his remarkable run as Deep Purple’s guitarist from 1995 through 2022. Yet the Steve Morse Band has always been where he truly stretches out, a space for unfiltered musical expression where complex arrangements meet jaw dropping technicality and genuine emotion.
The album opens on the rocking “Break Through”, with as signature riff and groove as you can expect from the legend. His guitar tone is warm and expressive, with melodies that immediately pull you in. LaRue and Romaine provide an energetic foundation, full of small rhythmic twists that keep the song moving. It’s a great way to kick off the album and remind listeners what this trio does best.
Morse also invites a few notable guests along for the ride. Eric Johnson appears on the energetic “TexUS,” a joyful, melodic burner that feels like a meeting between “Cliffs of Dover” and Dixie Dregs style fusion. Hearing these two virtuosos trade solos is nothing short of exhilarating. Later on, Dream Theater’s John Petrucci joins for the title track, one of the heavier tracks on the album. Again the riffs are just jaw-dropping – complicated, yet memorable. You can hear the interplay between Petrucci and Morse, but also recognize Morse’s influence on Petrucci’s playing style. This track is a guitarist masterclass.
Other highlights include “Off The Cuff,” a bluesy number that still has a melodic touch, with a blazing breakdown solo section. “The Unexpected” is a wonderful classically influenced ballad, written with a constant barrage of notes. “March of the Nomads” is one of my favorites and features Scott Sim on bass. Of course, there has to be a mention of the 11-minute tour de force “Tumeni Partz,” an obvious callback to one of Morse’s classic songs “Tumeni Notes.” The title says it all, and if you’re a longtime Morse fan, than this is what you’ve been waiting for. Stick around till the end of this one for some outrageous bass playing from LaRue.
It’s a true joy to hear Steve Morse back in full flight, supported by two musicians who match his brilliance every step of the way. Triangulation is not only a triumphant return but also a reminder of why Morse remains one of the most expressive and technically gifted guitarists alive. This is some of the finest instrumental music you’ll hear this year, and hopefully just the beginning of another great chapter for this legendary trio.
Released on Nov.14th, 2025 on Music Theories Recordings
Order here: https://www.mascotlabelgroup.com/collections/steve-morse-band
Tracklisting:
A1. Break Through
A2. Off the Cuff
A3. TexUS (feat. Eric Johnson)
A4. The Unexpected
A5. March of the Nomads (feat. Scott Sim)
B1. Ice Breaker
B2. Tumeni Partz
B3. Triangulation (feat. John Petrucci)
B4. Taken by an Angel (feat. Kevin Morse)
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