Protocol II

What can be said that hasn't already been said about Simon Phillips?...The same goes for Andy Timmons. Now, pair these two masters up again and what do you get??? Prog utiopia!!! It has all the elements of a great listen. Jazz, Rock, Fusion all built around that amazing sounding drum kit that defines Simon's unmistakable sound and style. Through in Ernest Tibbs and Steve Weingart and you have all the makings of a fantastic Flowing progressive album in that distinctive Phillips groove. I love Simon's style.... Loved what he brought to TOTO for all those years after Jeff..... But, this is all Simon and what he's all about. This sound and style of music is what led him to pursue his solo career..... And this is just an amazing recording featuring some of my favorite musicians today!

Wonderful stuff here. I'm not a huge fan of fusion but this has a level of smothness to it that makes the entire album something you want to put on repeat. A different genre for Andy and he nails it. I'd love to see the band here in the states someday.

The original Protocol album arrived from this jazz-rock great and Toto alum back in 1989. In 2013, after his final tour with Toto, Phillips assembled a phenomenal band with Steve Weingart on keyboards, Andy Timmons on guitar and Ernest Tibbs on bass. They recorded live, producing an astonishing collection of original jazz-fusion songs almost 25 years after Phillips’ first solo album. He excels as a band leader, producer, engineer and composer. In fact, one can almost forget that Phillips is one of the best drummers in the world. That is, until you hear the lead off track “Wildfire” or his deep groove on “Soothsayer.” Truly a band effort, Timmons, Weingart and Tibbs all shine in the ensemble. This is a must have for drummers, and jazz-fusion connoisseurs alike.

Bought the CD after seeing the band live earlier this year, great in concert, great album.

Andy and Simon take this album to another level. Thank you!!!

A melodic and well made album, Simon Phillips just will not let you down. Well written and NON-menotonous, while still very well orchestrated and musical. (hard to find in this genre) All around good album.

This is an awesome playing album. If you like instrumental jazz rock, but with a kick in the pants that allows the players to stretch out, get this album immediately. Simon is absolutely smokin' and Andy Timmons sounds fantastic with tips of the hat to Holdsworth, Satriani and yet a style all his own. I hear tinges of some vintage fusion from the keys,but mostly this is NOW MUSIC! I was so excited to see that Simon followed up the orginal Protocol band coming back to this. And now after listening...all I can say is WOW! Simon is absolutely one of the best in the world and it's funny to compare some of the younger drummer led bands to this band. WHAT A RETURN!

Andy Timmons on guitar! Can't miss with Andy!

Amazing playing. Simon returns with a ridiculous band; absolutely RIPPING it up on this new album. If you are a fan of progressive music, or miss Tony Williams Lifetime, then this is a must.