TOTO News 2005
Africa from LiA in HD — 29 October 2005
If you have Windows Media Player 10 and a T-Online account in Germany you can now download the song Africa from the Live in Amsterdam DVD in HD-quality (1280*720) for free. Start WMP and click the small arrow button on the right side to choose the T-Online Video on Demand onlineshop. Navigate to "High Definition" on the left side and choose "Toto - Live in Amsterdam" in the category HD-Downloads for free. The clip has 173 MB, so it's good to have DSL...
(Thanks to Michael from the TOTO99 Message Board)
Falling In Between Cover Art Unveiled — 23 October 2005
TOTO have now finalized the album cover art for Falling In Between. While this is currently a "final" copy, please bear in mind that the ultimate release may have some changes. Please click the thumbnail for a larger view!
"Falling In Between" Press Release — 21 October 2005
Frontiers Records is immensely proud to announce the signing of rock legends TOTO for the release of their forthcoming new studio album "Falling In Between".
Almost thirty years of history, seven Grammy Awards won, twelve studio records with almost 30 millions of records sold, record breaking tours and a loyal following of young and old fans and musicians who have won every possible award one can get! This and more is what TOTO has counted in the history of rock music.
Now, six years after their latest - all original - album Mindfields and with new member Greg Phillinganes in the line-up on keyboards, together with fellow keyboard players David Paich and Steve Porcaro, TOTO are now ready to unleash a brand new studio album.
TOTO's guitar player, Steve Lukather describes "Falling in Between" as a labour of love and "something we REALLY wanted to do and try to make it our personal best".
Recorded by the band over a period of about six months in Los Angeles, with Steve MacMillan (long time Trevor Horn collaborator) taking care of the final mix, the new record has taken shape as the band's "most daring and inventive release ever" according to Lukather. He adds: "With Mindfields we had just gotten Bobby Kimball back in the band and we were finding our way with it". Therefore "Falling In Between" sounds more cohesive, with 6 more years of being a band and a music that is fresh, heavier, at times more progressive and of course still with some great radio songs and melodies and the classic TOTO imprint!
The new album is also going to offer many surprises to the fans. "Our old singer Joseph Williams came back and did a duet with me that's total radio, almost like Africa part 2" explains Lukather, "plus there is Ian Anderson (JETHRO TULL), the CHICAGO horn section, L. Shankar (PETER GABRIEL), Lenny Castro and more guests. I think when people hear it everyone will have a smile on the face. EVERYONE in the band brought their best to the party!".
The final tracklisting will include songs like the title track "Falling In Between", "Simple Life", "Dying On My Feet", "Bottom of Your Soul", "Let it Go", "Nowhere in Sight", "Spiritual Man", "Ain't Your World", "The Reefer Man" and "Hooked".
"If this is the last record we even make (it won't be, I hope)" concludes Lukather, "I can walk away knowing we threw DOWN the best we got. I hope the fans will all enjoy and appreciate the love and passion that went into making "Falling in Between, see you all very soon on tour!".
The band has already confirmed tour dates in Europe in February and March 2006, with a two years long massive World Tour schedule that is set to hit all continents in 2006 - 2007!
"Falling In Between" will reach the shops in early February 2006 on Frontiers Records.
WebLinks: www.toto99.com / www.stevelukather.net / www.simon-phillips.com / www.mike-porcaro.com / www.bobbykimball.com / www.frontiers.it
More info:
-------------------------------------------------
Mario de Riso
Label Manager
Frontiers Records
Via Giulia Gonzaga 18
80125 Napoli - Italy
T: +39.081.2399340 / 7753
F: +39.081.2399794
www.frontiers.it
Message Board Reopens! — 20 October 2005
The Message Board is now back online. Please visit the Toto99 Online Community at http://www.toto99.com/board/
"Falling In Between" release dates — 20 October 2005
The new TOTO album "Falling In Between" will be released on February 10th 2006 in Europe and January 25th in Japan. The new label is FRONTIERS Records.
"El Grupo" CD — 14 October 2005
Steve Lukather and his band "El Grupo" featuring Steve Weingart, Joey Heredia and Oskar Cartaya have recorded a live CD which will be on sale at the European gigs in November. More details to come soon. In the meantime, take a look at the album cover!
Lukather/Carlton DVD — 14 October 2005
After their Grammy awarded live CD Steve Lukather and Larry Carlton can now even be seen in action on a new DVD which features a whole show recorded at the New Morning in Paris 2001 as well as some extras. For all details, please check out the Releases section.
Another "El Grupo" date — 28 September 2005
Steve Lukather and his band "El Grupo" have added one last date to their tour schedule. They will play at the Columbia Club in Berlin (Germany) on November 21st.
Additional "El Grupo" date — 24 September 2005
Steve Lukather and his band "El Grupo" have added a new date to their tour schedule. They will play at the Music Hall in Worpswede (Germany) on November 17th.
Hurricane Katrina benefit concert — 16 September 2005
The Los Angeles Rock & Roll crowd have got together to hold a benefit concert for the victims of Hurricane Katrina at The Key Club in Hollywood on Sunday, September 18th. Appearing that night are Members of INXS with Dave Navarro, Keith Emerson, Bobby Kimball, Steve Lukather & David Paich of Toto, Heaven & Earth, Howard Leese, Slash, Thundherstruck and many others.
Tickets are available from The Key Club, (www.keyclub.com) and Jaxx Restaurant at 8828 West Sunset Blvd. 100% of the money raised that evening will go to The American Red Cross and Operation USA.
Simon on tour in the Far East — 16 September 2005
Simon will do some more drum clinics this year. This time he is heading towards the Far East visiting countries like China, Malaysia and Korea. For more details please check out the Tour Dates page.
"El Grupo" European Tour — 15 September 2005
Steve Lukather and his band "El Grupo" featuring Steve Weingart, Joey Heredia and Oskar Cartaya will return to Europe in November. Please check out the Tour Dates page for details.
TOTO Tour Danish date changes — 15 September 2005
The show originally scheduled for March 5th in Aalborg has been cancelled and instead TOTO will now play on March 6th in Middelfart. For all details please check out the Tour Dates page.
"Falling In Between" update from Greg — 13 September 2005
Greg Phillinganes brings us the latest news from the recording sessions and also tells us about his experiences on his first TOTO album in the "The Road to the New Release" feature!
TOTO TV broadcast — 9 September 2005
Swiss Television SF2 will broadcast TOTO's performance at the Soundarena Wohlen 2003 tomorrow night at 22.40 CEST.
TOTO set new State Fair highs — 6 September 2005
The local Syracuse newspaper reported that this year's fair had the highest turnout in the history of the State Fair. In addition, the two TOTO Shows set the record for the highest attended show in the history of the fair. The 4PM show at 5000+ and the 8 PM show had 7500+.
"Falling In Between" World Tour Dates — 1 September 2005
TOTO have just confirmed the dates for the European leg of their upcoming "Falling In Between" World Tour. As always, you can find the complete schedule and ticket information on the Tour Dates page.
"Falling In Between" update from Simon — 24 August 2005
The new album is in the finishing stages and Simon is giving an overview of everything that's going on right now in the "The Road to the New Release" feature!
Tour Date Cancelled — 20 August 2005
Toto's show scheduled for 1 September 2005 in New Hampshire, USA has been cancelled.
Tony Spinner festival tour — 15 August 2005
Tony Spinner will play at several festivals in the Netherlands in late August. For all details please check out the Tony Spinner Tour Dates page. Tony will also return to Europe in November for a 4 week Benelux tour. And don't forget to check out his latest album Chicks & Guitars in the Releases section!
For further information on all of Tony's activities please visit www.tonyspinner.com.
New "old" Concert Reviews — 12 August 2005
While we are all waiting for the brandnew TOTO album to be finished, why not remember some specials moments of the TOTO past with another concert review that takes you back a looooooong time to Oslo 1992.
Luke, Bobby & David to join benefit event — 11 August 2005
Legendary members of Toto, Steve Lukather, Bobby Kimball and David Paich as well as Heaven & Earth, Howard Leese of Heart, Albert Lee and Ray Parker Jr. will join others to jam at the House of Blues on Sunset and celebrate over 30 years of music. Bringing them together for one night on August 23rd is the Calabasas Magazine Music Party benefiting The Mr. Holland's Opus Foundation and celebrating THE MUSIC ISSUE. The night will be hosted by the voice of classic rock, KLOS-FM's Bob Coburn. It is hoped the line up will be joined by other surprise guests that will all be a part of the exciting evening.
The event will show off the sounds of many of the hottest voices in music and offer a look back at the roots of the local Los Angeles rock scene as described in THE MUSIC ISSUE. This latest issue also touts original photos and updated interviews with other top artists and bands including Devo, The Knack and Chicago's James Pankow.
"From rockers to rappers, pianists to percussionists and up-and-comers to top-of-their-gamers, this issue celebrates musicians from virtually every genre and generation under the sun. The quality of the artists in the West Valley area blew us away," says Calabasas Magazine Editor in Chief Richard Bleiweiss. "As you will hear from these artists performances, the valley can stack up its musical talent against any region in the world and emerge with its head held high."
A portion of the evenings ticket sales will benefit The Mr. Holland's Opus Foundation, a charity that supports music education and its many benefits through the donation of new and refurbished musical instruments to underserved school and community music programs and individual students nationwide.
Tickets are available through the House of Blues ticket office, (323)848-5100 or www.hob.com. Doors open on August 23rd at 7:00pm.
Joe Williams to appear on "Falling In Between" — 8 August 2005
Luke confirmed on Sunday in the Toto99.com Chat room that Joseph Williams will be performing a duet on the new record with Luke. According to Luke, "The track is perfect for Joe. It's a very Seventh One-era sound, of course modernized. We're really happy with the way it turned out."
Luke also said that the band is now on the "downhill stretch" of the recording process, and they should be finished recording in a month or so.
More updates on the record:
Greg Phillinganes and Luke are singing a song together. Their voices blend together VERY well.
Steve Porcaro has made absolutely magical contributions to the record. Those people looking for the full keyboard sound that defines Toto -- it has returned. Steve personally developed and designed all of the keyboard sounds to get them perfect -- none of the preset stuff you find on most keyboards.
David Paich as one lead vocal on the record on a song that he wrote.
Lenny Castro is ALL OVER the record, and there's talk of possibly getting him to come out on tour with them.
Remember you can follow the whole process of the creation of the new album in our feature "The Road to the New Release"!
Luke and Simon at the Baked Potato — 1 August 2005
Steve Lukather's "Grupo" will play two nights at The Baked Potato on August 5th and 6th (2 shows a night) while Simon Phillips will be there three weeks later on August 26th and 27th with a project called "C.A.B.", featuring Tony Mac Alpine on Guitar, Bunny Brunel on Bass and Steve Weingart on Keys. For more details and ticket information please check out the Tour Dates page.
Falling In Between: The New Record Title — 31 July 2005
This morning, Steve Lukather confirmed that the new record title will be "Falling In Between." Check out "The Road to the New Release" for more information!
New Luke date — 30 July 2005
Steve Lukather's "Grupo" will play 2 shows at B.B. King's in New York on October 29th. For more details and ticket information please check out the Tour Dates page.
Star Wars' ILM Grand Opening — 29 June 2005
The Washington Post has published an article on the opening of Letterman Digital Arts Center, the new home of Geroge Lucas' company, including a photo that features our very own Steve Lukather. You can check out the article here.
New TOTO interview — 16 June 2005
During their recording sessions for the new album, we caught up with the band in the studio over telephone to get all the latest scoop on the upcoming release. The transcript of the interview can be found in the Interviews section.
TOTO - The Next Generation — 15 June 2005
Congratulations to Greg Phillinganes and his wife who became the proud parents of a little baby girl last week! All the best wishes to the latest addition to the TOTO family!
Additional TOTO date — 12 June 2005
TOTO have confirmed a new show for July 21st at the Eurohal, Burgemeester Omtaweg 2, Zuidbroek, Holland near Groningen. Details and ticket information as always on the Tour Dates page.
Luke's Leverkusen date cancelled — 2 June 2005
The local government in Leverkusen has cancelled lots of shows of the Leverkusen Festival this summer, including Steve Lukather's show. However, TOTO's show will still go ahead as planned.
Joseph Williams chat transcript — 29 May 2005
On May 21st 2005 former TOTO singer Joseph Williams joined the weekly chat on the TOTO99 Message Board and replied to lots of fan questions directly, amongst others talking about his favorite TOTO memories and his current work. The transcript of the chat can be found in the Interviews section.
More TOTO US shows in September — 28 May 2005
TOTO have just confirmed four more East coast shows in the US in September. You can find all details and ticket information on the Tour Dates page.
Greg Phillinganes becomes official TOTO member — 26 May 2005
After he's been working with TOTO for quite some time now, Greg Phillinganes has finally become an official band member! From now on, TOTO will have six steady members again as David Paich of course continues to be part of the band. TOTO and the TOTO99 website staff say a big "Welcome" to Greg and we hope you all will too!
Luke: "We want to welcome our newest member Greg, and I DO mean "Member" hahaha. It is an honor and thanks for making it all fresh again and seeing You, Dave and Steve Porcaro workin together puts a huge smile on all of our faces. Your input and writing on the new record will surely make this one of our personal best. Here's 25 more years."
Bobby: "As in any addition to a family, we embrace Greg with open arms (and minds). He's one of the most talented musicians we know, and is an eye-to-eye equal to David on keyboard. In addition to his keyboard knowledge, he's also a world class singer with perfect pitch. Greg is a keynote artist with anything he gets involved with, and he's, more importantly, a friend. We love him."
David: "Greg is the man. He is the Michael Jordan of keys....I have now become his humble student...
p.s. TOTO's range will be expanded this album to feature him as well as Steve Porcaro."
Bobby gig in Germany — 26 May 2005
Bobby will play a gig with the "Real Groove Band" at the Burg Bocholt near Nettetal in Germany on June 3rd. "It should be a lot of fun, as I'm singing some great cover songs with them. Songs I've been doing for years by some of my favorite bands." For ticket reservations please e-mail ticket@burgbocholt.de.
Additional Luke date — 25 May 2005
A final date has been added to Steve Lukather's European solo tour, on July 9th at the Colos-Saal in Aschaffenburg, Germany. Ticket information is available as always on the Tour Dates page.
Joseph Williams in Live Chat — 21 May 2005
Today Joseph Williams will be the special guest in our weekly Live Chat on the Message Board. Joseph will probably stop by at around 18:00 GMT, 1:00 PM EST, and 10:00 AM Pacific. The chat room can be accessed by selecting the Live Chat option in the top right hand corner of the board. Java is required. You do not need to be a member of the board to access the live chat but if you register for the board you will get a permanent user name that you can then use for every chat.
David Paich and Steve Lukather to play at Star Wars' ILM Grand Opening at the Presidio — 15 May 2005
David Paich and Steve Lukather will join Boz Scaggs, Chris Isaak, Lars Ulrich, Joan Baez, Etta James, and others at the grand opening of George Lucas' Industrial Light and Magic in its new building at the Presido on June 25th. The powerhouse behind the Star Wars Films, including the upcoming Episode III: Revenge of the Sith, ILM is one of the leading visual effects providers for motion pictures. David and Luke hope to be rehearsing at Skywalker Ranch in the near future.
Luke at Mark & Brian Golf Tournament — 3 May 2005
Steve Lukather took part in the annual Mark & Brian Golf Tournament to help raise money for Mark & Brian's charity. "Had a blast at the Mark and Brian 95.5 golf tournament. Had a jam the night before with Jonathan Cain from Journey, Kevin Cronin and Dave Amato from REO, The kid drummer from No Doubt, he was cool, Fee Waybill. Played some old stuff and had many laughs and raised money for the cause." If you want to support Mark & Brian's charity work, please check out their website www.markandbrian.com and learn how you can donate. And as a special treat, here you can see our very own "Tiger" Luke swing the club.
TOTO-Week on Radio Veronica — 21 April 2005
Radio Veronica in the Netherlands is celebrating a special TOTO-week where they are not only extensively playing their songs but where you can also win lots of TOTO prizes. For everyone who doesn't live in the Netherlands they have an online stream of their radio program on their website http://www.radioveronica.nl/, so tune in!
Simon Phillips clinics — 10 April 2005
During the recording of the new TOTO album Simon will be doing some clinics in the United States. The dates are:
4/17 sun: Columbus Drumdaze (Columbus P)
4/18 mon: Toledo, OH (Peeler Music)
4/19 tue: Southbend, IN (Drums in the Wind)
4/20 wed: Lansing, MI (Marshall Music)
4/21 thu: Grand Rapids (RIT Music)
Steve Lukather Tourdates — 8 April 2005
Steve Lukather will play a few selected solo shows in Europe this summer. As usual, you can find the confirmed dates and ticket information on the Tour Dates page.
Bobby at the Frankfurt Musikmesse — 22 March 2005
Bobby Kimball will be working with Auric H"rsysteme at the Frankfurt Musikmesse from April 6th - April 9th this year and also perform at their booth twice a day, approximately at 11 am and 3 pm. Since Bobby will be very busy the exact times will be scheduled at short notice, so please ask at the Auric booth (5_6.1 A13) for details.
Bobby will also be the special guest of "The Real Groove Band" at the Agora stage on Friday, April 8th at 1 pm and 4.30 pm and on Saturday, April 9th at 5 pm.
Please note that the Musikmesse is open only to trade visitors from April 6th to April 8th. Public visitors admission only on April 9th!
Bobby Kimball chat transcript — 21 March 2005
On March 20th Bobby Kimball was the special guest in our weekly chat on the Message Board. He took a lot of time to answer your questions, especially with regard to the new album. And then another surprise guest appeared...
The transcript of the chat can be found in the Interviews section.
Not the typical TOTO record — 17 March 2005
Steve Lukather has sent some more updates on the new album which are chronicled in "The Road to the New Release". There he admits that some of the new stuff is actually "hard to play", even for TOTO standards, and that this is 'NOT a 'typical TOTO' record at all."
The Road to the New Release — 12 March 2005
Accompany TOTO on their way to the new album in our latest feature "The Road to the New Release". There the band members themselves update you on every step of the way and give some exclusive insight on the whole writing and recording process of the upcoming album.
Bobby Kimball in Live Chat — 11 March 2005
On Sunday, March 20th 2005, Bobby Kimball will be the special guest in our weekly Live Chat on the Message Board. As always, the chat will begin at 20.00 GMT, 3:00 PM EST, and 12:00 PM Pacific time. The chat room can be accessed by selecting the Live Chat option in the top right hand corner of the board. Java is required. You do not need to be a member of the board to access the live chat but if you register for the board you will get a permanent user name that you can then use for every chat.
Norwegian date added — 9 March 2005
TOTO have confirmed a date on July 23rd at the Liseby Stadion in Fredrikstadt/Norway.
TOTO top Japanese charts — 8 March 2005
TOTO are sweeping the Japanese Tower Records charts this week with limited paper sleeve editions of their first four albums capturing the first four spots of the Rock/Pop charts (1. TOTO IV, 2. TOTO, 3. Hydra, 4. Turn Back) and the Greatest Hits Live and More DVD topping the DVD Pop charts.
Tony Spinner Tour Dates — 6 March 2005
Tony Spinner will be doing a 10 day tour in Holland in April and the Spinner Band will also do some festivals this summer.
The line up this time will have some changes, his American rhythmsection won't be able to come and will be replaced by two Dutch guys (Han Neijenhuis on drums and Pascal Groenen on bass).
You can check out the dates for April on the Live Guide page in the Tour Dates section. For more information, please visit www.tonyspinner.com.
TOTO European dates — 3 March 2005
TOTO will be doing a few selected dates in Europe this summer. The first two confirmed dates are the City Festival in Leverkusen (Germany) on July 20th and the Indelukket in Silkeborg (Denmark) on July 22nd. As soon as further dates are confirmed we'll announce them on the website.
Steve Lukather chat transcript — 1 March 2005
On February 27th our weekly chat on the Message Board was joined by a very special guest - Steve Lukather took the chance to personally chat with the fans and replied to lots of questions. The transcript of the chat can be found in the Interviews section.
South Africa dates postponed — 24 Feb 2005
The shows of TOTO with the Durban Symphony Orchestra originally scheduled for April had to be postponed. As soon as the new dates are confirmed, we will publish them on the Tour Dates page.
Luke to play at Bospop — 24 Feb 2005
Steve Lukather will play at the Bospop Festival in the Netherlands on July 2nd. He's also planning to do a few more solo dates in July which we will announce as soon as they are confirmed.
Luke on distribution of the record and hopeful release dates — 21 Feb 2005
"Well we are gonna make the record FIRST and then license as we own the masters then. We have alot of interest but they want to hear it first. No problem with us. The new stuff we are writing is really fresh and not just the 4 minute pop-rock stuff we have done. It's still VERY Toto but its also very experimental and progressive and aggressive. We have written 6 things we really dig and we are just doing polaroids of the stuff as we write it. Once we have 3 more weeks of steady writing we will scrutinize everything and only pick what we think is the very best stuff and then begin the recording process. It's been exciting and fun to write all new music and we think that you guys will be pleasantly surprised at what us old fuckers can still do! hahaha. Hoping for a personal best and anyone that thinks Toto is some pussy soft rock band will eat their words! hahaha. There is still VERY melodic stuff but the songs have alot more sections and are longer. It's very early yet but we have found a direction that we all dig alot. Everyone is contributing.
Oh yeah, Paich is VERY involved in this record !!!! Greg has popped in and lent a hand and will be a part of the overall thing too. We want Steve P. to add his touches when it comes time so this will be, what we hope, a classic Toto record.
I hope the record will come out in the Fall but it wont come out till we think its ready but sooner than later. There is already a major worlwide tour being booked for 2006. In the meantime we are gonna record alot and do weekends in the USA and a few gigs here and there to keep the chops up and keep the project funded. We want NO ONE telling us what to do or how to do it.
Bobby on the Puerto Rico show and the new album — 16 Feb 2005
"The show in Puerto Rico went very well. The press had rave reviews about it, so it looks like we'll be going back there as soon as the new CD is done. Our promoter likes the band and is a real Toto fan.
Dave is working hard on the new CD, but is far too hemmed in with things to attend in LA to go out on the road for any stretch. We now have two permanent keyboard players and we love them both. Greg will also be working on the CD with us, so he will stay up on the current project as well as the former ones. Dave's position is so hard to replace, we've very fortunate indeed to have the likes of Greg Phillingaines to stand in his shoes. We're very proud of the fact we have a couple of the "best there is" keyboardists available to us. Come what may, it's not a losing situation by any means....................Bobby"
New TOTO tour dates for May — 11 Feb 2005
TOTO have just confirmed 4 shows in May in the USA and Canada. For more details and ticket information please check out the Tour Dates section.
TOTO started recording — 8 Feb 2005
TOTO have just started recording their new album yesterday and here's a firsthand update on what's going on with the band from Luke: "Well, yesterday was day 1 so we didn't really do much but get some sounds, talk about what we want to do and dig Simons new studio. We all have some great ideas and I think this is gonna be a good one but it's REAL early to tell exactly whats gonna go down. Dave was there and yes he IS going to be a major part of the record but I know that we are gonna bring Greg in as well. We are going GRADUALLY make the change as Dave's touring days are all but over fo many different reasons. Greg will be doing all our live dates as of now. Dave may show up at some of the LA dates, early yet but we'll see. Life in Toto world will be going strong as more and more USA dates are starting to come in. maybe we might actually make a little headway here, again, early to tell.
Today we are just gonna brush off the cobwebs for our Puerto Rico shows and when we start up next MON we will be seriously into the new record."
Simon to play at the Baked Potato — 31 Jan 2005
Simon Phillips will be part of the "Baked Potato Allstars" which play at the famous club on February 19th. His companions will be Jimmy Hasslip (bass), Mitch Forman (keys) and Jeff Richmann (guitar). For more details and ticket information please check out the Live Guide in the Tour Dates section.
Bobby at Rock for Asia concert — 26 Jan 2005
Bobby Kimball and the Soulmates will take part in the Rock for Asia concert that takes places tomorrow, 27th January, at the Saturn-Arena in Ingolstadt, Germany. This event is a charity show for the flood victims in Asia. Other artists include Bonfire, Nu Pagadi, In Extremo, Edguy, Ayman, Bonnie Tyler, Doro, David Knopfler, Saxon, Groove Coverage, Pete York, Rarebell & Raab, Mr. President, Rolf Stahlhofen, Veronika Fischer, Claudia Jung, Georgisches Kammerorchester, Krypteria, Crystal Ball, Com`n rail, M.A.D., Silence of Rage, magicians: Ehrlich & Ehrlich, presenters: Diana Herold & Ralf Richter. Tickets are available at www.pom-agency.de, www.manoticket.de or www.cts.de. Ticket hotline: 07251-981672
Bobby to perform at benefit soccer match — 25 Jan 2005
Bobby Kimball continues to help raise money for the Tsunami victims tonight at a benefit soccer match between the German international team and an all star team from the Bundesliga. During the half-time break he will perform the John Lennon classic "Imagine" together with the Soulmates. The match will be broadcast live from 19.25 on ZDF and can be viewed throughout Europe FTA via the Astra satellite system.
TOTO tour date change — 25 Jan 2005
TOTO have postponed the date at the Canyon Theatre in Agoura Hills until later in the year and will instead play at the Boulder Station in Las Vegas on March 25th.
New TOTO album — 20 Jan 2005
After all the TOTO members have been writing separately new material for the upcoming new album, they will now start writing and recording together from February 7th, only interrupted by the various shows they are going to play this spring. As far as the direction the new album might take Luke says "Well it's early yet but we want to make this a group effort with some wilder more experimental stuff while still retaining the sound that people like from us. I am quite sure individual members will have some cool self written tunes as well as some of our classic collaborations with familiar names. We WILL see though. I got tunes, Bobby has tunes, Paich, Simon, and I think that Gregg may throw some stuff in with us as well as he is like a member now. Hopefully some Steve Porcaro." Bobby adds "It should be an exciting year for TOTO, and even more so for the fans of the band. We have promised (ourselves, at least) that we would make this CD one of our best efforts, or not release it until it is. That's quite a goal to set for yourself, but it's what we're up against."
Message from Luke — 6 Jan 2005
"Man, what can I say about the horrors we are all watching from a distance.. It's the worst tragedy ever isn't it? I have friends who were there and barely escaped. I am speechless but I am sending a donation for help and relief. I suggest we all do, whatever you can spare as it all counts!
God Bless these poor people and there familes and even more so, their loss. No words can describe the feeling of such things.
Luke"
Tsunami Disaster — 3 Jan 2005
The band, management, and website staff would all like to convey their sorrow and sympathy for all of the victims of the Tsunami Disaster. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of the families affected by this horrible event.
Bobby on German benefit TV show update — 3 Jan 2005
Some more information regarding Bobby's appearance at the benefit show "Wir wollen helfen - Ein Herz für Kinder": Bobby will perform together with the Soulmates Legends of Rock (Ian Anderson, Leslie Mandoki, Paul Carrack und Jon Lord) the final song of the show, "Imagine" by John Lennon. The artists are charitably donating their time to help raise as much money for the relief effort as possible.
Bobby on German benefit TV show — 2 Jan 2005
Bobby Kimball will take part in a German benefit TV show called "Wir wollen helfen - Ein Herz für Kinder" which is raising money for the tsunami victims in the Far East. The show will be broadcast live on Tuesday, 4th January at 20.15 CET on ZDF. This channel can be received throughout Europe via the Astra satellite system. During the show you can help the victims by calling a special telephone hotline.
"What an incredible disaster that was. I want to try and do my part to help the people that are suffering so severely........Bobby"
Africa from LiA in HD — 29 October 2005
If you have Windows Media Player 10 and a T-Online account in Germany you can now download the song Africa from the Live in Amsterdam DVD in HD-quality (1280*720) for free. Start WMP and click the small arrow button on the right side to choose the T-Online Video on Demand onlineshop. Navigate to "High Definition" on the left side and choose "Toto - Live in Amsterdam" in the category HD-Downloads for free. The clip has 173 MB, so it's good to have DSL...
(Thanks to Michael from the TOTO99 Message Board)
Falling In Between Cover Art Unveiled — 23 October 2005
TOTO have now finalized the album cover art for Falling In Between. While this is currently a "final" copy, please bear in mind that the ultimate release may have some changes. Please click the thumbnail for a larger view!
"Falling In Between" Press Release — 21 October 2005
Frontiers Records is immensely proud to announce the signing of rock legends TOTO for the release of their forthcoming new studio album "Falling In Between".
Almost thirty years of history, seven Grammy Awards won, twelve studio records with almost 30 millions of records sold, record breaking tours and a loyal following of young and old fans and musicians who have won every possible award one can get! This and more is what TOTO has counted in the history of rock music.
Now, six years after their latest - all original - album Mindfields and with new member Greg Phillinganes in the line-up on keyboards, together with fellow keyboard players David Paich and Steve Porcaro, TOTO are now ready to unleash a brand new studio album.
TOTO's guitar player, Steve Lukather describes "Falling in Between" as a labour of love and "something we REALLY wanted to do and try to make it our personal best".
Recorded by the band over a period of about six months in Los Angeles, with Steve MacMillan (long time Trevor Horn collaborator) taking care of the final mix, the new record has taken shape as the band's "most daring and inventive release ever" according to Lukather. He adds: "With Mindfields we had just gotten Bobby Kimball back in the band and we were finding our way with it". Therefore "Falling In Between" sounds more cohesive, with 6 more years of being a band and a music that is fresh, heavier, at times more progressive and of course still with some great radio songs and melodies and the classic TOTO imprint!
The new album is also going to offer many surprises to the fans. "Our old singer Joseph Williams came back and did a duet with me that's total radio, almost like Africa part 2" explains Lukather, "plus there is Ian Anderson (JETHRO TULL), the CHICAGO horn section, L. Shankar (PETER GABRIEL), Lenny Castro and more guests. I think when people hear it everyone will have a smile on the face. EVERYONE in the band brought their best to the party!".
The final tracklisting will include songs like the title track "Falling In Between", "Simple Life", "Dying On My Feet", "Bottom of Your Soul", "Let it Go", "Nowhere in Sight", "Spiritual Man", "Ain't Your World", "The Reefer Man" and "Hooked".
"If this is the last record we even make (it won't be, I hope)" concludes Lukather, "I can walk away knowing we threw DOWN the best we got. I hope the fans will all enjoy and appreciate the love and passion that went into making "Falling in Between, see you all very soon on tour!".
The band has already confirmed tour dates in Europe in February and March 2006, with a two years long massive World Tour schedule that is set to hit all continents in 2006 - 2007!
"Falling In Between" will reach the shops in early February 2006 on Frontiers Records.
WebLinks: www.toto99.com / www.stevelukather.net / www.simon-phillips.com / www.mike-porcaro.com / www.bobbykimball.com / www.frontiers.it
More info:
-------------------------------------------------
Mario de Riso
Label Manager
Frontiers Records
Via Giulia Gonzaga 18
80125 Napoli - Italy
T: +39.081.2399340 / 7753
F: +39.081.2399794
www.frontiers.it
Message Board Reopens! — 20 October 2005
The Message Board is now back online. Please visit the Toto99 Online Community at http://www.toto99.com/board/
"Falling In Between" release dates — 20 October 2005
The new TOTO album "Falling In Between" will be released on February 10th 2006 in Europe and January 25th in Japan. The new label is FRONTIERS Records.
"El Grupo" CD — 14 October 2005
Steve Lukather and his band "El Grupo" featuring Steve Weingart, Joey Heredia and Oskar Cartaya have recorded a live CD which will be on sale at the European gigs in November. More details to come soon. In the meantime, take a look at the album cover!
Lukather/Carlton DVD — 14 October 2005
After their Grammy awarded live CD Steve Lukather and Larry Carlton can now even be seen in action on a new DVD which features a whole show recorded at the New Morning in Paris 2001 as well as some extras. For all details, please check out the Releases section.
Another "El Grupo" date — 28 September 2005
Steve Lukather and his band "El Grupo" have added one last date to their tour schedule. They will play at the Columbia Club in Berlin (Germany) on November 21st.
Additional "El Grupo" date — 24 September 2005
Steve Lukather and his band "El Grupo" have added a new date to their tour schedule. They will play at the Music Hall in Worpswede (Germany) on November 17th.
Hurricane Katrina benefit concert — 16 September 2005
The Los Angeles Rock & Roll crowd have got together to hold a benefit concert for the victims of Hurricane Katrina at The Key Club in Hollywood on Sunday, September 18th. Appearing that night are Members of INXS with Dave Navarro, Keith Emerson, Bobby Kimball, Steve Lukather & David Paich of Toto, Heaven & Earth, Howard Leese, Slash, Thundherstruck and many others.
Tickets are available from The Key Club, (www.keyclub.com) and Jaxx Restaurant at 8828 West Sunset Blvd. 100% of the money raised that evening will go to The American Red Cross and Operation USA.
Simon on tour in the Far East — 16 September 2005
Simon will do some more drum clinics this year. This time he is heading towards the Far East visiting countries like China, Malaysia and Korea. For more details please check out the Tour Dates page.
"El Grupo" European Tour — 15 September 2005
Steve Lukather and his band "El Grupo" featuring Steve Weingart, Joey Heredia and Oskar Cartaya will return to Europe in November. Please check out the Tour Dates page for details.
TOTO Tour Danish date changes — 15 September 2005
The show originally scheduled for March 5th in Aalborg has been cancelled and instead TOTO will now play on March 6th in Middelfart. For all details please check out the Tour Dates page.
"Falling In Between" update from Greg — 13 September 2005
Greg Phillinganes brings us the latest news from the recording sessions and also tells us about his experiences on his first TOTO album in the "The Road to the New Release" feature!
TOTO TV broadcast — 9 September 2005
Swiss Television SF2 will broadcast TOTO's performance at the Soundarena Wohlen 2003 tomorrow night at 22.40 CEST.
TOTO set new State Fair highs — 6 September 2005
The local Syracuse newspaper reported that this year's fair had the highest turnout in the history of the State Fair. In addition, the two TOTO Shows set the record for the highest attended show in the history of the fair. The 4PM show at 5000+ and the 8 PM show had 7500+.
"Falling In Between" World Tour Dates — 1 September 2005
TOTO have just confirmed the dates for the European leg of their upcoming "Falling In Between" World Tour. As always, you can find the complete schedule and ticket information on the Tour Dates page.
"Falling In Between" update from Simon — 24 August 2005
The new album is in the finishing stages and Simon is giving an overview of everything that's going on right now in the "The Road to the New Release" feature!
Tour Date Cancelled — 20 August 2005
Toto's show scheduled for 1 September 2005 in New Hampshire, USA has been cancelled.
Tony Spinner festival tour — 15 August 2005
Tony Spinner will play at several festivals in the Netherlands in late August. For all details please check out the Tony Spinner Tour Dates page. Tony will also return to Europe in November for a 4 week Benelux tour. And don't forget to check out his latest album Chicks & Guitars in the Releases section!
For further information on all of Tony's activities please visit www.tonyspinner.com.
New "old" Concert Reviews — 12 August 2005
While we are all waiting for the brandnew TOTO album to be finished, why not remember some specials moments of the TOTO past with another concert review that takes you back a looooooong time to Oslo 1992.
Luke, Bobby & David to join benefit event — 11 August 2005
Legendary members of Toto, Steve Lukather, Bobby Kimball and David Paich as well as Heaven & Earth, Howard Leese of Heart, Albert Lee and Ray Parker Jr. will join others to jam at the House of Blues on Sunset and celebrate over 30 years of music. Bringing them together for one night on August 23rd is the Calabasas Magazine Music Party benefiting The Mr. Holland's Opus Foundation and celebrating THE MUSIC ISSUE. The night will be hosted by the voice of classic rock, KLOS-FM's Bob Coburn. It is hoped the line up will be joined by other surprise guests that will all be a part of the exciting evening.
The event will show off the sounds of many of the hottest voices in music and offer a look back at the roots of the local Los Angeles rock scene as described in THE MUSIC ISSUE. This latest issue also touts original photos and updated interviews with other top artists and bands including Devo, The Knack and Chicago's James Pankow.
"From rockers to rappers, pianists to percussionists and up-and-comers to top-of-their-gamers, this issue celebrates musicians from virtually every genre and generation under the sun. The quality of the artists in the West Valley area blew us away," says Calabasas Magazine Editor in Chief Richard Bleiweiss. "As you will hear from these artists performances, the valley can stack up its musical talent against any region in the world and emerge with its head held high."
A portion of the evenings ticket sales will benefit The Mr. Holland's Opus Foundation, a charity that supports music education and its many benefits through the donation of new and refurbished musical instruments to underserved school and community music programs and individual students nationwide.
Tickets are available through the House of Blues ticket office, (323)848-5100 or www.hob.com. Doors open on August 23rd at 7:00pm.
Joe Williams to appear on "Falling In Between" — 8 August 2005
Luke confirmed on Sunday in the Toto99.com Chat room that Joseph Williams will be performing a duet on the new record with Luke. According to Luke, "The track is perfect for Joe. It's a very Seventh One-era sound, of course modernized. We're really happy with the way it turned out."
Luke also said that the band is now on the "downhill stretch" of the recording process, and they should be finished recording in a month or so.
More updates on the record:
Greg Phillinganes and Luke are singing a song together. Their voices blend together VERY well.
Steve Porcaro has made absolutely magical contributions to the record. Those people looking for the full keyboard sound that defines Toto -- it has returned. Steve personally developed and designed all of the keyboard sounds to get them perfect -- none of the preset stuff you find on most keyboards.
David Paich as one lead vocal on the record on a song that he wrote.
Lenny Castro is ALL OVER the record, and there's talk of possibly getting him to come out on tour with them.
Remember you can follow the whole process of the creation of the new album in our feature "The Road to the New Release"!
Luke and Simon at the Baked Potato — 1 August 2005
Steve Lukather's "Grupo" will play two nights at The Baked Potato on August 5th and 6th (2 shows a night) while Simon Phillips will be there three weeks later on August 26th and 27th with a project called "C.A.B.", featuring Tony Mac Alpine on Guitar, Bunny Brunel on Bass and Steve Weingart on Keys. For more details and ticket information please check out the Tour Dates page.
Falling In Between: The New Record Title — 31 July 2005
This morning, Steve Lukather confirmed that the new record title will be "Falling In Between." Check out "The Road to the New Release" for more information!
New Luke date — 30 July 2005
Steve Lukather's "Grupo" will play 2 shows at B.B. King's in New York on October 29th. For more details and ticket information please check out the Tour Dates page.
Star Wars' ILM Grand Opening — 29 June 2005
The Washington Post has published an article on the opening of Letterman Digital Arts Center, the new home of Geroge Lucas' company, including a photo that features our very own Steve Lukather. You can check out the article here.
New TOTO interview — 16 June 2005
During their recording sessions for the new album, we caught up with the band in the studio over telephone to get all the latest scoop on the upcoming release. The transcript of the interview can be found in the Interviews section.
TOTO - The Next Generation — 15 June 2005
Congratulations to Greg Phillinganes and his wife who became the proud parents of a little baby girl last week! All the best wishes to the latest addition to the TOTO family!
Additional TOTO date — 12 June 2005
TOTO have confirmed a new show for July 21st at the Eurohal, Burgemeester Omtaweg 2, Zuidbroek, Holland near Groningen. Details and ticket information as always on the Tour Dates page.
Luke's Leverkusen date cancelled — 2 June 2005
The local government in Leverkusen has cancelled lots of shows of the Leverkusen Festival this summer, including Steve Lukather's show. However, TOTO's show will still go ahead as planned.
Joseph Williams chat transcript — 29 May 2005
On May 21st 2005 former TOTO singer Joseph Williams joined the weekly chat on the TOTO99 Message Board and replied to lots of fan questions directly, amongst others talking about his favorite TOTO memories and his current work. The transcript of the chat can be found in the Interviews section.
More TOTO US shows in September — 28 May 2005
TOTO have just confirmed four more East coast shows in the US in September. You can find all details and ticket information on the Tour Dates page.
Greg Phillinganes becomes official TOTO member — 26 May 2005
After he's been working with TOTO for quite some time now, Greg Phillinganes has finally become an official band member! From now on, TOTO will have six steady members again as David Paich of course continues to be part of the band. TOTO and the TOTO99 website staff say a big "Welcome" to Greg and we hope you all will too!
Luke: "We want to welcome our newest member Greg, and I DO mean "Member" hahaha. It is an honor and thanks for making it all fresh again and seeing You, Dave and Steve Porcaro workin together puts a huge smile on all of our faces. Your input and writing on the new record will surely make this one of our personal best. Here's 25 more years."
Bobby: "As in any addition to a family, we embrace Greg with open arms (and minds). He's one of the most talented musicians we know, and is an eye-to-eye equal to David on keyboard. In addition to his keyboard knowledge, he's also a world class singer with perfect pitch. Greg is a keynote artist with anything he gets involved with, and he's, more importantly, a friend. We love him."
David: "Greg is the man. He is the Michael Jordan of keys....I have now become his humble student...
p.s. TOTO's range will be expanded this album to feature him as well as Steve Porcaro."
Bobby gig in Germany — 26 May 2005
Bobby will play a gig with the "Real Groove Band" at the Burg Bocholt near Nettetal in Germany on June 3rd. "It should be a lot of fun, as I'm singing some great cover songs with them. Songs I've been doing for years by some of my favorite bands." For ticket reservations please e-mail ticket@burgbocholt.de.
Additional Luke date — 25 May 2005
A final date has been added to Steve Lukather's European solo tour, on July 9th at the Colos-Saal in Aschaffenburg, Germany. Ticket information is available as always on the Tour Dates page.
Joseph Williams in Live Chat — 21 May 2005
Today Joseph Williams will be the special guest in our weekly Live Chat on the Message Board. Joseph will probably stop by at around 18:00 GMT, 1:00 PM EST, and 10:00 AM Pacific. The chat room can be accessed by selecting the Live Chat option in the top right hand corner of the board. Java is required. You do not need to be a member of the board to access the live chat but if you register for the board you will get a permanent user name that you can then use for every chat.
David Paich and Steve Lukather to play at Star Wars' ILM Grand Opening at the Presidio — 15 May 2005
David Paich and Steve Lukather will join Boz Scaggs, Chris Isaak, Lars Ulrich, Joan Baez, Etta James, and others at the grand opening of George Lucas' Industrial Light and Magic in its new building at the Presido on June 25th. The powerhouse behind the Star Wars Films, including the upcoming Episode III: Revenge of the Sith, ILM is one of the leading visual effects providers for motion pictures. David and Luke hope to be rehearsing at Skywalker Ranch in the near future.
Luke at Mark & Brian Golf Tournament — 3 May 2005
Steve Lukather took part in the annual Mark & Brian Golf Tournament to help raise money for Mark & Brian's charity. "Had a blast at the Mark and Brian 95.5 golf tournament. Had a jam the night before with Jonathan Cain from Journey, Kevin Cronin and Dave Amato from REO, The kid drummer from No Doubt, he was cool, Fee Waybill. Played some old stuff and had many laughs and raised money for the cause." If you want to support Mark & Brian's charity work, please check out their website www.markandbrian.com and learn how you can donate. And as a special treat, here you can see our very own "Tiger" Luke swing the club.
TOTO-Week on Radio Veronica — 21 April 2005
Radio Veronica in the Netherlands is celebrating a special TOTO-week where they are not only extensively playing their songs but where you can also win lots of TOTO prizes. For everyone who doesn't live in the Netherlands they have an online stream of their radio program on their website http://www.radioveronica.nl/, so tune in!
Simon Phillips clinics — 10 April 2005
During the recording of the new TOTO album Simon will be doing some clinics in the United States. The dates are:
4/17 sun: Columbus Drumdaze (Columbus P)
4/18 mon: Toledo, OH (Peeler Music)
4/19 tue: Southbend, IN (Drums in the Wind)
4/20 wed: Lansing, MI (Marshall Music)
4/21 thu: Grand Rapids (RIT Music)
Steve Lukather Tourdates — 8 April 2005
Steve Lukather will play a few selected solo shows in Europe this summer. As usual, you can find the confirmed dates and ticket information on the Tour Dates page.
Bobby at the Frankfurt Musikmesse — 22 March 2005
Bobby Kimball will be working with Auric H"rsysteme at the Frankfurt Musikmesse from April 6th - April 9th this year and also perform at their booth twice a day, approximately at 11 am and 3 pm. Since Bobby will be very busy the exact times will be scheduled at short notice, so please ask at the Auric booth (5_6.1 A13) for details.
Bobby will also be the special guest of "The Real Groove Band" at the Agora stage on Friday, April 8th at 1 pm and 4.30 pm and on Saturday, April 9th at 5 pm.
Please note that the Musikmesse is open only to trade visitors from April 6th to April 8th. Public visitors admission only on April 9th!
Bobby Kimball chat transcript — 21 March 2005
On March 20th Bobby Kimball was the special guest in our weekly chat on the Message Board. He took a lot of time to answer your questions, especially with regard to the new album. And then another surprise guest appeared...
The transcript of the chat can be found in the Interviews section.
Not the typical TOTO record — 17 March 2005
Steve Lukather has sent some more updates on the new album which are chronicled in "The Road to the New Release". There he admits that some of the new stuff is actually "hard to play", even for TOTO standards, and that this is 'NOT a 'typical TOTO' record at all."
The Road to the New Release — 12 March 2005
Accompany TOTO on their way to the new album in our latest feature "The Road to the New Release". There the band members themselves update you on every step of the way and give some exclusive insight on the whole writing and recording process of the upcoming album.
Bobby Kimball in Live Chat — 11 March 2005
On Sunday, March 20th 2005, Bobby Kimball will be the special guest in our weekly Live Chat on the Message Board. As always, the chat will begin at 20.00 GMT, 3:00 PM EST, and 12:00 PM Pacific time. The chat room can be accessed by selecting the Live Chat option in the top right hand corner of the board. Java is required. You do not need to be a member of the board to access the live chat but if you register for the board you will get a permanent user name that you can then use for every chat.
Norwegian date added — 9 March 2005
TOTO have confirmed a date on July 23rd at the Liseby Stadion in Fredrikstadt/Norway.
TOTO top Japanese charts — 8 March 2005
TOTO are sweeping the Japanese Tower Records charts this week with limited paper sleeve editions of their first four albums capturing the first four spots of the Rock/Pop charts (1. TOTO IV, 2. TOTO, 3. Hydra, 4. Turn Back) and the Greatest Hits Live and More DVD topping the DVD Pop charts.
Tony Spinner Tour Dates — 6 March 2005
Tony Spinner will be doing a 10 day tour in Holland in April and the Spinner Band will also do some festivals this summer.
The line up this time will have some changes, his American rhythmsection won't be able to come and will be replaced by two Dutch guys (Han Neijenhuis on drums and Pascal Groenen on bass).
You can check out the dates for April on the Live Guide page in the Tour Dates section. For more information, please visit www.tonyspinner.com.
TOTO European dates — 3 March 2005
TOTO will be doing a few selected dates in Europe this summer. The first two confirmed dates are the City Festival in Leverkusen (Germany) on July 20th and the Indelukket in Silkeborg (Denmark) on July 22nd. As soon as further dates are confirmed we'll announce them on the website.
Steve Lukather chat transcript — 1 March 2005
On February 27th our weekly chat on the Message Board was joined by a very special guest - Steve Lukather took the chance to personally chat with the fans and replied to lots of questions. The transcript of the chat can be found in the Interviews section.
South Africa dates postponed — 24 Feb 2005
The shows of TOTO with the Durban Symphony Orchestra originally scheduled for April had to be postponed. As soon as the new dates are confirmed, we will publish them on the Tour Dates page.
Luke to play at Bospop — 24 Feb 2005
Steve Lukather will play at the Bospop Festival in the Netherlands on July 2nd. He's also planning to do a few more solo dates in July which we will announce as soon as they are confirmed.
Luke on distribution of the record and hopeful release dates — 21 Feb 2005
"Well we are gonna make the record FIRST and then license as we own the masters then. We have alot of interest but they want to hear it first. No problem with us. The new stuff we are writing is really fresh and not just the 4 minute pop-rock stuff we have done. It's still VERY Toto but its also very experimental and progressive and aggressive. We have written 6 things we really dig and we are just doing polaroids of the stuff as we write it. Once we have 3 more weeks of steady writing we will scrutinize everything and only pick what we think is the very best stuff and then begin the recording process. It's been exciting and fun to write all new music and we think that you guys will be pleasantly surprised at what us old fuckers can still do! hahaha. Hoping for a personal best and anyone that thinks Toto is some pussy soft rock band will eat their words! hahaha. There is still VERY melodic stuff but the songs have alot more sections and are longer. It's very early yet but we have found a direction that we all dig alot. Everyone is contributing.
Oh yeah, Paich is VERY involved in this record !!!! Greg has popped in and lent a hand and will be a part of the overall thing too. We want Steve P. to add his touches when it comes time so this will be, what we hope, a classic Toto record.
I hope the record will come out in the Fall but it wont come out till we think its ready but sooner than later. There is already a major worlwide tour being booked for 2006. In the meantime we are gonna record alot and do weekends in the USA and a few gigs here and there to keep the chops up and keep the project funded. We want NO ONE telling us what to do or how to do it.
Bobby on the Puerto Rico show and the new album — 16 Feb 2005
"The show in Puerto Rico went very well. The press had rave reviews about it, so it looks like we'll be going back there as soon as the new CD is done. Our promoter likes the band and is a real Toto fan.
Dave is working hard on the new CD, but is far too hemmed in with things to attend in LA to go out on the road for any stretch. We now have two permanent keyboard players and we love them both. Greg will also be working on the CD with us, so he will stay up on the current project as well as the former ones. Dave's position is so hard to replace, we've very fortunate indeed to have the likes of Greg Phillingaines to stand in his shoes. We're very proud of the fact we have a couple of the "best there is" keyboardists available to us. Come what may, it's not a losing situation by any means....................Bobby"
New TOTO tour dates for May — 11 Feb 2005
TOTO have just confirmed 4 shows in May in the USA and Canada. For more details and ticket information please check out the Tour Dates section.
TOTO started recording — 8 Feb 2005
TOTO have just started recording their new album yesterday and here's a firsthand update on what's going on with the band from Luke: "Well, yesterday was day 1 so we didn't really do much but get some sounds, talk about what we want to do and dig Simons new studio. We all have some great ideas and I think this is gonna be a good one but it's REAL early to tell exactly whats gonna go down. Dave was there and yes he IS going to be a major part of the record but I know that we are gonna bring Greg in as well. We are going GRADUALLY make the change as Dave's touring days are all but over fo many different reasons. Greg will be doing all our live dates as of now. Dave may show up at some of the LA dates, early yet but we'll see. Life in Toto world will be going strong as more and more USA dates are starting to come in. maybe we might actually make a little headway here, again, early to tell.
Today we are just gonna brush off the cobwebs for our Puerto Rico shows and when we start up next MON we will be seriously into the new record."
Simon to play at the Baked Potato — 31 Jan 2005
Simon Phillips will be part of the "Baked Potato Allstars" which play at the famous club on February 19th. His companions will be Jimmy Hasslip (bass), Mitch Forman (keys) and Jeff Richmann (guitar). For more details and ticket information please check out the Live Guide in the Tour Dates section.
Bobby at Rock for Asia concert — 26 Jan 2005
Bobby Kimball and the Soulmates will take part in the Rock for Asia concert that takes places tomorrow, 27th January, at the Saturn-Arena in Ingolstadt, Germany. This event is a charity show for the flood victims in Asia. Other artists include Bonfire, Nu Pagadi, In Extremo, Edguy, Ayman, Bonnie Tyler, Doro, David Knopfler, Saxon, Groove Coverage, Pete York, Rarebell & Raab, Mr. President, Rolf Stahlhofen, Veronika Fischer, Claudia Jung, Georgisches Kammerorchester, Krypteria, Crystal Ball, Com`n rail, M.A.D., Silence of Rage, magicians: Ehrlich & Ehrlich, presenters: Diana Herold & Ralf Richter. Tickets are available at www.pom-agency.de, www.manoticket.de or www.cts.de. Ticket hotline: 07251-981672
Bobby to perform at benefit soccer match — 25 Jan 2005
Bobby Kimball continues to help raise money for the Tsunami victims tonight at a benefit soccer match between the German international team and an all star team from the Bundesliga. During the half-time break he will perform the John Lennon classic "Imagine" together with the Soulmates. The match will be broadcast live from 19.25 on ZDF and can be viewed throughout Europe FTA via the Astra satellite system.
TOTO tour date change — 25 Jan 2005
TOTO have postponed the date at the Canyon Theatre in Agoura Hills until later in the year and will instead play at the Boulder Station in Las Vegas on March 25th.
New TOTO album — 20 Jan 2005
After all the TOTO members have been writing separately new material for the upcoming new album, they will now start writing and recording together from February 7th, only interrupted by the various shows they are going to play this spring. As far as the direction the new album might take Luke says "Well it's early yet but we want to make this a group effort with some wilder more experimental stuff while still retaining the sound that people like from us. I am quite sure individual members will have some cool self written tunes as well as some of our classic collaborations with familiar names. We WILL see though. I got tunes, Bobby has tunes, Paich, Simon, and I think that Gregg may throw some stuff in with us as well as he is like a member now. Hopefully some Steve Porcaro." Bobby adds "It should be an exciting year for TOTO, and even more so for the fans of the band. We have promised (ourselves, at least) that we would make this CD one of our best efforts, or not release it until it is. That's quite a goal to set for yourself, but it's what we're up against."
Message from Luke — 6 Jan 2005
"Man, what can I say about the horrors we are all watching from a distance.. It's the worst tragedy ever isn't it? I have friends who were there and barely escaped. I am speechless but I am sending a donation for help and relief. I suggest we all do, whatever you can spare as it all counts!
God Bless these poor people and there familes and even more so, their loss. No words can describe the feeling of such things.
Luke"
Tsunami Disaster — 3 Jan 2005
The band, management, and website staff would all like to convey their sorrow and sympathy for all of the victims of the Tsunami Disaster. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of the families affected by this horrible event.
Bobby on German benefit TV show update — 3 Jan 2005
Some more information regarding Bobby's appearance at the benefit show "Wir wollen helfen - Ein Herz für Kinder": Bobby will perform together with the Soulmates Legends of Rock (Ian Anderson, Leslie Mandoki, Paul Carrack und Jon Lord) the final song of the show, "Imagine" by John Lennon. The artists are charitably donating their time to help raise as much money for the relief effort as possible.
Bobby on German benefit TV show — 2 Jan 2005
Bobby Kimball will take part in a German benefit TV show called "Wir wollen helfen - Ein Herz für Kinder" which is raising money for the tsunami victims in the Far East. The show will be broadcast live on Tuesday, 4th January at 20.15 CET on ZDF. This channel can be received throughout Europe via the Astra satellite system. During the show you can help the victims by calling a special telephone hotline.
"What an incredible disaster that was. I want to try and do my part to help the people that are suffering so severely........Bobby"