On March 25, 1980 "Triumph" released their fourth studio album "Progressions of Power".
With this album "Triumph" continued their ascent as one of Canada's premier hard rock power trios, delivering an album that blends muscular riffs, soaring vocals, and arena-sized anthems. "Progressions of Power" followed the same formula the band used in "Just a Game" released in 1979, and gave them their first taste of mainstream success. While it doesn't feature signature hits as some of their later albums, "Progressions of Power" is one of "Triumph's" most consistent albums that showcases the band's raw energy and technical prowess.
Musically, "Progressions of Power" leans heavier than its predecessor, placing more emphasis on Rik Emmett’s searing guitar work and the rhythmic backbone of drummer Gil Moore and bassist Mike Levine. On the other hand, after playing a secondary role to guitarist Rik Emmett on "Just a Game", drummer Gil Moore reclaimed a stronger presence on "Progressions of Power", contributing vocals to miost of the album's songs and balancing the band's dynamic, with only 3 songs from the album sang by Rik Emmett.
The album kicks off with the relentless "I Live for the Weekend" sang by Gil Moore. A stomping, high-energy anthem that became one of "Triumph's" best-loved live staples. It has an almost boogie-rock feel with a punchy, radio-friendly chorus. Moore also takes the lead in the high-energy "Tear the Roof Off", which embrace a heavier, almost AC/DC-esque approach with it's bluesy high-energy riff, and pounding drums. Moore also delivers strong single contenders with the anthemic "I Can Survive" and the groovy "Woman in Love", while the bluesy "Nature’s Child" is less dynamic.
In contrast, Rik Emmett known for his versatility, showcased his more melodic instincts in "Progressions of Power" and contributes the moody power ballad "In the Night", the powerful closer "Hard Road" which is one of the most dynamic tracks on the album, showcasing "Triumph’s" ability to balance melody with power, and the softer "Take My Heart". He also showcases his acoustic prowess with "Fingertalkin’" - a brief but mesmerizing acoustic instrumental that highlights Emmett’s impressive classical and fingerstyle guitar chops.
While "Progressions of Power" may not have the same level of mainstream recognition as the bands future albums, it’s a solid entry in "Triumph’s" discography. The album leans toward the heavier side of their sound while still featuring enough melodic moments to maintain balance.
For Listening: Spotify, Apple Music
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