Review THE STEVE MORSE BAND “Triangulation”

Steve Morse is best known for his time with classic rock pioneers Deep Purple, where he was the guitarist who had been in the line-up for the most years. Morse has also been part of Kansas, and with the Steve Morse Band he has his own creative outlet.

In 2022, Morse announced his departure from Deep Purple for personal reasons. He wanted to spend time with his wife and care for her before she passed away in 2024.

Undoubtedly, the personal tragedy and loss have impacted the new Steve Morse Band album. The album is titled “Triangulation”, a term used by pilots, navigators and mariners to determine their position. Metaphorically speaking, it can also represent finding one’s place in life, with all its ups and downs. It’s about finding your inner self and engaging in self-reflection.

“Triangulation” features nine instrumental songs. Here, Morse takes a step back into his musical past, combining rock, blues and funk to create a vivid fusion, with his guitar playing acting as a connector of styles.

The emotional cornerstone of the album comes at the end. “Taken by an Angel” is a calm and somber instrumental that Morse wrote for his wife, Janine. Written for her funeral, the song serves as a reminder that things can quickly turn gloomy and painful. It is a truly heart-touching moment on the album, and you need a few minutes to regroup after the last note fades away.

At eleven minutes long, “Tumeni Partz” is the longest track on the album. It connects to “Tumeni Notes” from Steve Morse’s solo album, “High Tension Wires”. In a sense, “Tumeni Partz” is a continuation of the 1989 tune, and it is the most versatile song on the album. Morse added so many twists and details to this track that there is enough to explore with several listens.

Starting at the end of the tracklist, let’s not forget the shining, metallic title track. “Triangulation” is one of the heavier tracks on the album, featuring a guest contribution from another iconic guitarist. Dream Theater mastermind John Petrucci joined Morse for this song, and listening to their fierce yet intricate guitar playing is a real treat.

While we’re on the subject of guests, Eric Johnson appears on “TexUs”. With “The Unexpected” Morse also reveals his compositional abilities. This calmer song features a smoothly singing guitar and a symphonic approach.

Last but not least, let’s take a look at the beginning of the album. “Break Through” is a blues-infused rock song with a screaming guitar and a grooving bass that forms the foundation for this roaring start to the album.

“Triangulation” is the new album from guitar virtuoso Steve Morse, who has released an emotional and impactful record following a tough time in recent years. In parts, the new album is an outlet for processing all that he has experienced. “Triangulation” is an emotionally profound album that, at the same time, does not drown in melancholy. Fans of sophisticated guitar rock should not miss it.