Triumph drummer Gil Moore recently discussed how the band’s upcoming reunion shows will differ from their original performances. He shared his insights in an interview with Talkin’ Rock with Meltdown.
Moore explained how modern technology has transformed their approach to live performances while maintaining their theatrical essence.
“The only way it’s comparable is the fact that we always brought theater to the stage back in the day,” Moore said. “So we were always trying to do things different and be one step ahead with production techniques, just to really get the audience into the music, really, to emphasize the music.”
The drummer highlighted how technological advances have opened new possibilities for their stage production.
“But the difference being is now the technology has changed,” he continued. “So the Triumph of yore and that type of show, it’s so much easier to do the things now that we wanna do in a more impactful way. I mean, video was never much of a factor back then, if at all, whereas now video’s a big part of the mix. Our lighting director, Paul Dexter, is working extremely closely with us on all the designs and everything. And I can’t wait to see it when it’s set up in an arena and it’s all there in front of us. It’s gonna be something else.”
Moore also touched on the intensive preparation process for the reunion shows.
“We’ve been so busy rehearsing,” he said. “It’s been nonstop here with Triumph rehearsals and also putting together the new drum riser and the drum sets that we’re using and stuff. So I’ve been coming outta here just kind of exhausted after doing all the rehearsing and hitting the gym as hard as I’m hitting it.”
These preparations are building toward a significant milestone for the Canadian rock trio. They are gearing up for their most ambitious tour in decades.
Ultimate Classic Rock reported that Triumph has announced their first full tour in over 30 years. The tour is dubbed the “Rock & Roll Machine Reloaded 2026 tour” to celebrate the band’s 50th anniversary. The tour will kick off on April 22 in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. April Wine will serve as support for the Canadian dates.
The reunion represents a major comeback for the band’s founding members. Loudwire noted that the tour will feature the original trio of Gil Moore, Rik Emmett, and Mike Levine. The lineup has now expanded to a six-piece formation that includes Brent Fitz, Todd Kerns, and Phil X. This expanded formation allows the band to recreate their classic sound while incorporating the enhanced production capabilities Moore described.
The significance of this tour extends beyond just a nostalgic reunion. Live Nation confirmed that the Rock & Roll Machine Reloaded tour will span from late April through early June. The tour will hit major cities across the United States and Canada. The tour represents Triumph’s return to the arena circuit where they built their reputation as one of Canada’s most successful rock exports.
The timing of Moore’s comments about technological evolution becomes particularly relevant given the band’s three-decade absence from touring. The integration of modern video technology and advanced lighting systems that Moore enthusiastically described will allow Triumph to deliver the theatrical experience they were known for. They can now do this with production values that match contemporary arena rock standards.
