Simon Phillips

For nearly half a century, Simon Phillips has remained at the forefront of modern music as a drummer, composer, and producer. In addition to his acclaimed solo work, he is widely known for his collaborations with legendary artists such as Jeff Beck, Michael Schenker, and Toto. Now, Phillips has completed 6, the latest release from Protocol, a project that has become the ultimate expression of his musical vision.
The album is filled with outstanding performances from a group of exceptional musicians. Yet its appeal extends far beyond instrumental virtuosity and technical prowess. As Phillips himself explains, strong melodies have always been his top priority when composing instrumental music, and 6 is rich with memorable themes and dramatic musical developments that keep the listener engaged from beginning to end.
From the opening track “ANDROMEDA,” which was inspired by the warning chime of a car seatbelt alarm, to “AS THE RIVER FLOWS,” a reworking of material originally written in 1991, and the epic fourteen-minute suite “EVENT HORIZON,” the album also showcases Phillips’ remarkable creativity as a composer.
MUSE ON MUSE spoke with Simon Phillips about the making of 6, discussing its compositions, recording process, drum sounds, and the musical vision behind Protocol.

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Robben Ford

Photo by Rob Blackham

Few names carry as much weight in the modern guitar world as Jeff Beck and Howard Alexander Dumble. On Two Shades Of Blue, Robben Ford pays tribute to both—but this is far more than a dedication album. It is a deeply personal statement from a guitarist whose lifelong pursuit of tone, touch, and musical truth continues to evolve. Throughout the record, Ford revisits his own artistic voice through the expressive freedom inspired by Jeff Beck and the harmonic richness and dynamic response of Dumble amplifiers.
When he says, “Alexander gave me 50% of what I consider my voice,” it becomes clear that this album is not simply about honoring influences—it is about recognizing the people and tools that helped shape his identity as a player. Musically, Two Shades Of Blue moves effortlessly between vocal songs and instrumentals, weaving together blues, funk, and rock with the kind of natural authority that only comes from decades of mastery. There is no unnecessary flash here—only the unmistakable sound of a player devoted to nuance, feel, and the emotional power of every note.
In this interview, Ford reflects on the inspirations behind Two Shades Of Blue, his tribute to Beck and Dumble, the gear that defined the sessions, and the tonal philosophy that remains at the heart of his music.

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Francis Dunnery

Childhood memories, complicated family relationships, and the “ordinary” realities of everyday life in Britain—on his latest album, England’s Tales Of The Council House Kid, Francis Dunnery paints a deeply personal portrait of his life with a level of honesty more candid than ever before.
Built around the warm textures of acoustic guitar, piano, fiddle, and mandolin, the album gently embraces memories that are at times painful, leaving the listener with a lingering sense of quiet reflection. What lies at the heart of the record is not flashy technique or elaborate musical architecture, but Dunnery’s pure creative philosophy: transforming emotion directly into music.
“It’s important to believe in what you are singing about,” he says. Through this album, Dunnery not only revisits the landscapes of his own past, but also reaffirms something essential about music itself.
In this interview, Dunnery speaks in depth about England’s Tales Of The Council House Kid—the emotions behind the songs, the reasons for embracing a simpler sound, and the perspective on life that shapes where he stands today.

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Corrado Rustici

A legendary name from Italian prog’s golden era, Cervello are back at last . After carving out their mythic reputation with their one and only studio album Melos (1973), the band have remained beloved by listeners around the world long after their breakup—and now, 50 years on, they’ve released a brand-new album, Chaire.
Formed in early-’70s Naples, Cervello stood alongside Premiata Forneria Marconi (PFM) and Banco del Mutuo Soccorso, yet always carried a presence distinctly their own within the golden age of Italian progressive rock. Their 1973 debut—also their sole studio album—Melos is still spoken of today as one of the genre’s definitive masterpieces.
Produced by Corrado Rustici, this long-awaited new work draws on songs written between 1974 and 1983, painstakingly arranged and recorded over four years by the original members. The album also brings back the voice of late vocalist Gianluigi Di Franco, who passed away in 2005: using modern technology, his rare recordings have been restored and reintegrated so that his singing can resonate once again in the present day.
Here, we had a chat with Corrado Rustici about the making of Chaire.

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Steve Morse

Photo by  Nick Nersesov

Steve Morse, the peerless guitarist known for his work with The Dixie Dregs and for anchoring Deep Purple’s sound for many years (until his departure in 2022). has released a new album, TRIANGULATION, his first since 2009’s Out Standing In Their Field.
Funk, blues, country, jazz, classical, hard rock, across his career, Morse has moved effortlessly between styles, driven by formidable technique and a deep musical sensibility. On the new record, that range is on full display from the opening track “Break Through,” where a funk-rock riff locks in with Dave LaRue’s bass and Van Romaine’s drums, the groove snapping into place. After LaRue weaves the melody on bass, Morse answers with an addictive guitar solo, a moment that captures the essence of the Steve Morse Band. Elsewhere, “TexUS” (featuring Eric Johnson) and the title track “Triangulation” (with John Petrucci) unfold as respectful, chemistry-rich exchanges between musicians who’ve each built a singular voice of their own. Closing the album is “Taken by an Angel,” co-created with Morse’s son Kevin — a piece he describes as portraying the night his late wife passed. Its blend of sorrow, beauty, and a faint sense of grace lingers long after the final note.
We had a chat with Steve Morse with his new album TRIANGULATION.

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Keith Scott

Photo by  Mike Blake

Keith Scott has long been Bryan Adams’ right-hand man, supporting him on countless albums and tours with his tasteful, rock-solid guitar work. Instead of relying on flashy shred or outlandish tricks, his playing is all about crafting melodies that lock in perfectly with Bryan’s vocals, drawing on a refined right-hand touch that brings out dynamic, expressive tones, and delivering thick, authoritative rhythm parts that feel like the blueprint for what rock guitar should be.
On Bryan’s new album ROLL WITH THE PUNCHES, Bryan himself handles many of the instruments, guitars included, but Keith steps in on four tracks (the booklet credits him as “LEAD GUITAR” on three songs and “GUITAR” on one). His contributions inject that unmistakable “Bryan Adams band” character fans love, while adding an extra dose of drive and excitement.
We spoke with Keith Scott about his new album ROLL WITH THE PUNCHES.

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Stevie Salas

With his free-spirited, raw, and soulful style, Stevie Salas has captivated countless Rock fans and continues to enjoy a loyal following to this day. As a producer, composer, singer, and guitarist, he has built an impressive career, performing and recording with legends such as George Clinton, Mick Jagger, Rod Stewart, Justin Timberlake, and Bill Laswell.
In 1995, Salas released the hard-hitting rock album “Back From The Living” under the name Stevie Salas Colorcode. Now, thirty years later, the album is being reissued as a deluxe edition. While the original release featured different cover artwork and tracklists depending on the country, the new edition brings together all of those variations into one definitive collection.
Listening again today, “Back From The Living still” radiates a timeless rock energy — from its powerful songs and fiery guitar work to its uncompromising sound. It’s a record that stands apart from passing trends, driven by Salas’ unwavering dedication to his own music and spirit. Muse On Muse spoke with Stevie Salas about this landmark album and its enduring impact.

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Steve Smith

Steve Smith is a legendary drummer best known for his work with the iconic American rock band Journey, whose timeless hits—like “Don’t Stop Believin’,” “Open Arms,” and “Separate Ways”—remain beloved by fans around the world, including in Japan. Smith’s dynamic fusion of rock and jazz rhythms and his exceptional technical prowess have left a lasting mark on Journey’s most celebrated recordings. But his talents extend far beyond that—he’s also made a name for himself through acclaimed projects like Vital Information and Steps Ahead, where his drumming continues to shine with unmatched precision and creativity.

On New Perspective, the latest album from Steve Smith & Vital Information, released in 2025, Smith revisits Journey classics such as “Don’t Stop Believin’,” “Open Arms,” and “Who’s Crying Now” through a bold and imaginative jazz-rock lens, breathing new life into these familiar songs. His rhythmic mastery captivates once again, blending innovation with deep musicality.

This time, Japanese drummer Shun Minari—known for his work with the rock band BLINDMAN, as well as his performances on numerous anime soundtracks and with a wide range of Japanese artists—posed a series of questions to Steve Smith. Their exchange dives into the making of New Perspective, offering insight into the creative process and rhythmic concepts behind the record—from one drummer to another.

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Pete Lesperance

Photo by Kevin Vyse Photography

HAREM SCAREM return with their first new album in five years, “CHASING EUPHORIA”. Known for their enduring presence in the world of melodic hard rock, the band continues to captivate fans with their signature sound.
The new album delivers everything listeners have come to expect—catchy and melodic vocals from Harry Hess, rich vocal harmonies, and hook-driven riffs and tastefully crafted solos from Pete Lesperance that drive each track forward with finesse. It’s a record packed with highlights, living up to—and exceeding—the expectations of longtime fans.
We spoke with Pete Lesperance about the making of “CHASING EUPHORIA”.

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Phil X

Photo by Stephen Jensen

PHIL X & THE DRILLS are back with their first full-length album in nearly five years, following the release of the 2019 EP “Stupid Good Lookings Vol.1.” While Phil X is widely known as Richie Sambora’s successor in Bon Jovi, his raw, electrifying guitar tone and untamed, free-spirited playing style truly capture the essence of rock. In his flagship band, PHIL X & THE DRILLS, these qualities shine even brighter, delivering powerful, hook-driven hard rock that pulls listeners in. We sat down with Phil X to talk about the new album “POW! Right In The Kisser,” as well as his musical background, past projects, and much more.

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