he Hollywood Casino Amphitheater welcomed a powerhouse double bill of Canadian rock legends on Sunday night. Headlined by Triumph on their long-awaited Rock & Roll Machine Reloaded Tour — their first major North American run in more than 35 years — and supported by April Wine, the night was filled with high-octane energy, masterful musicianship, and pure rock passion.
April Wine opened the show with a sharp, high-spirited set that instantly won over the crowd. Blasting through crowd favorites like “I Like to Rock,” “Big City Girls,” “Just Between You and Me,” “Sign of the Gypsy Queen,” and the thunderous “Roller,” the band delivered a flawless 45-minute performance packed with melodic hard rock and undeniable chemistry. Their tight playing and enthusiastic delivery set a strong tone for the evening.
Triumph then took the stage at 9:10 PM as a dynamic five-piece unit and proceeded to deliver a nearly two-hour masterclass in classic rock. Co-founder Mike Levine isn’t on the tour, but original members Rik Emmett (guitars and lead vocals) and Gil Moore (drums and shared vocals) enduring talent and unmistakable chemistry anchored the evening.
Triumph assembled an elite group of musicians who elevated the performance to new heights. Phil X — a former Triumph member and current lead guitarist for Bon Jovi — delivered fiery, note-perfect guitar work. Todd Kerns, known for his stints with Faster Pussycat, Slash, and Myles Kennedy & the Conspirators, provided rock-solid bass lines and strong backing vocals. Completing the powerhouse ensemble was Brent Fitz (another Conspirator alum with credits alongside Gilby Clarke, Bruce Kulick, and Phil X), who handled a second drum kit and keyboards to add rich layers and depth to the band’s signature sound.
From the soaring “Time Canon” intro into a powerful “Rocky Mountain Way,” through hits like “Somebody’s Out There,” “Spellbound,” “Hold On,” “Allied Forces,” “Magic Power,” and the explosive “Rock & Roll Machine,” the band was in peak form. Rik Emmett’s legendary guitar solos and emotive vocals shone brightly, while the full ensemble brought fresh energy and precision that honored the band’s classic catalog without feeling dated. Standout moments included blistering takes on “Lay It on the Line” and “I Live for the Weekend” during the encore, sending the entire amphitheater to its feet.
The Hollywood Casino Amphitheater offered excellent sound and sightlines, creating the perfect backdrop for a memorable night under the stars. Fans of all ages packed the venue, united by a love for authentic, guitar-driven rock.
In an age when live rock often feels like a fading art, Triumph and April Wine reminded everyone that the spirit is alive and thriving. This was more than a concert — it was a heartfelt celebration of legacy, musicianship, and the enduring power of great songs. If this tour comes to your city, do not miss it. Triumph is back, and they sound better than ever.
PHOTO ALBUMS:
April Wine – https://photos.micklite.com/Music/April-Wine-at-HCASTL-51726
Triumph – https://photos.micklite.com/Music/Triumph-at-HCASTL-51726
