Steve Lukather has indicated the days of new recordings from Toto are over. Given the state of the music industry and the near lack of recording royalties, the proclamation makes perfect sense.
“Struck by Lightning,” from 2018’s Old Is New, is a reminder of what we will be missing if there is no more music from Toto.
Lukather’s gnarly lead guitar and guttural bass playing are prominent, and they’re matched in urgency by Vinnie Colaiuta’s backbeat. The long-time Jeff Beck drummer’s performance here is worthy of Toto, with just enough nuisance to keep things fascinating. David Paich provides touches of piano, which are further enhanced by Steve Porcaro’s organ.
Written by Lukather, Paich, Porcaro and Joseph Williams, “Struck by Lightning” doesn’t need much else except a solid vocal from Williams, who also served as supervising producer. Williams, again, exceeds expectations with a high and tight lead, employing his trademark vocal affectations and lifting the already rocking track to an even higher level.
This actually is a perfect way to end Old Is New and Toto’s studio recording career. Too bad there’s one more song to review.
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