Rik Emmett

Although drummer Gil Moore split lead vocal duties with guitar ace Rik Emmett in Triumph, it seemed like Emmett was the true "face" (and creative force) of the band. This was proven further after Emmett exited the band in the early '90s -- as the group split up after a single post-Emmett release, and the guitarist launched a solo career that is still going strong. By the time of his 2003 solo release, Good Faith, Emmett had completely shifted musical styles. Out was the anthemic prog metal that was Triumph's trademark, and in its place were such vastly different musical styles as lighthearted pop (the album-opening "Unconditional Love"), a track that sounds custom-made for the crooners of the '40s and '50s ("Butterfly Lullaby"), and even smooth jazz ("Beacon Street Hotel"). Fans looking for another "Fight the Good Fight" will definitely be a bit befuddled, but Emmett's singing and guitar-playing talents remain quite impressive -- especially while tackling an array of styles that rock fans would not typically expect from him. ~ Greg Prato, All Music Guide