ALBUM REVIEW: I Found The Sun Again by Steve Lukather

This is a two part review. Check out our review of Denizen Tenant by Joseph Williams.

One of the greatest guitarists of all time is a man you probably don’t know by name. He’s played on over 1,500 records for names like Michael Jackson, Lionel Richie, Elton John, Kenny Rogers, Cher… and that’s not even the highlights. Chances are one of your favorite 80’s tracks has him on it. Steve Lukather, ladies and gentlemen. is a living legend.

And then there’s Toto. TOTO, MAN!!! For four decades, Luke’s been the lead guitarist for the band that spawned “Africa,” “Rosanna,” “Hold The Line,” and more. Anytime the man plays, it’s exciting. And anytime Luke sings, you know he means business.

I Found The Sun Again is Luke’s eighth studio album, his first solo work in nearly seven years. As Toto transitions into its “Dogs of Oz” era with Luke and Joseph Williams as the remaining core members of the band, the two decided to branch off and make some solo albums instead of a new Toto record. It’s like getting a 2-for-1 Toto combo, which is exciting for music fans.

This record goes for an old school blues rock vibe that feels warm and inviting, I’m sure in part due to David Paich‘s presence on the keys. The album opener, “Along For The Ride,” has something of a prog rock drive that lets you know you’re in for a good time. “Serpent Soul” is clever as a funky diss track. “Run To Me” is the major highlight of the album, featuring man, myth, and legend Ringo Starr with his signature left handed rata tat. The title track “I Found The Sun Again” is like blues meets psychedelic; you go in feeling those Pink Floyd vibes and leave feeling washed by The Moody Blues.

“The Low Spark of High Heeled Boys” (a cover of the Traffic song) and “Journey Through” are these beautiful blues-y inspired rock pieces that compliment each other well. The other covers on the album, “Welcome To The Club” by Joe Walsh and “Bridge of Sighs” by Robin Trower, feel right at home with everything else this gem has to offer.

It’s wonderful to hear Luke back in his finest form in years. While this album may be a solo effort, it’s very much a Toto album in spirit and would fit right in with the Luke era from the early 90’s.

As Luke’s linear notes put it, “ALL these tracks were cut LIVE – no clix – no fix – No rehearsal – one run thru – and record and the whole record was take 2.” I would say it shows, but it really doesn’t, and that’s the magic of a record like this one.

4/5 Stars
⭐⭐⭐⭐

I Found The Sun Again is available now on Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music.

And for more music reviews, check out the latest from WOBAM Entertainment.