When it comes to popular music, the ‘80s is a decade that is often best forgotten altogether. Synthesizers, old school rap, hair metal, Cyndi Lauper; I mean come on the list just goes on and on. But when looking back, one of the ‘80s rock bands that I enjoyed the most was definitely Toto. So obviously, when I find out that Toto’s legendary guitarist Steve Lukather has released new solo material, my bar is set pretty high.
Ever Changing Times is Lukather’s fourth studio album, and though I haven’t had the pleasure of listening to Steve’s previous albums, the first thing that is undeniably obvious is that he certainly has the ability to carry an album as the leading man. Lukather’s vocals have a rich mixture of both range and scope that adapt very well to whatever unique style he chooses to play. And believe me, he chooses to play quite a few unique styles. From ‘80s rock anthems to subdued acoustic wizardry, Ever Changing Times is full of surprises.
More than not, Lukather taps into his ‘80s rock roots, mostly for the good of the album but sometimes for the worse. While the driving title track blazes into Toto worthy guitar work, the almost cheesy power chords and forgettable chorus on "New World" becomes a bitter reminder of some of Toto’s less flattering moments. The best this album has to offer is when Lukather methodically switches pace and uses less of the heavy electric guitar and takes a brisk spin of acoustic and flamenco guitar. One of the highlights on the disc, “Tell Me What You Want From Me,” uses a perfect blend of both styles. It makes no difference what kind of stringed instrument Steve has in has hands though, this man is a virtuoso, and it’s very clear of the talent he possesses after only a song or two.
Lyrically, Lukather uses his faith as his number one muse. Just about every track carries uplifting words of hope and a better tomorrow. Such inspiring words go hand in hand with the almost unremitting upbeat music, and despite the lack of any real depth in the words themselves (a lot of the lyrics seem like material you would find in a church hymn book) they don’t do anything to derail the depth of the music behind it. The hymn book moments go a little too far though on “Jammin’ With Jesus,” here Lukather is joined by a church choir and an underlying organ, but mixed with Steve’s stellar guitar work, it actually makes for quite an interesting sound.
Ever Changing Times as a whole is a terrific album. Lukather’s songwriting prowess, skillful guitar work, and surprisingly good vocal ability are enough to interest those who are familiar with Steve’s early work and even for those who aren’t. Each song is unmistakably dissimilar from one other, showing the true diversity and range in musical styles Lukather is able to realize. Though some of the tracks seemed a bit overdone, a few seemed as though they would have been better presented if they ended before crossing the five minute mark, the album is extremely listenable and it’s musical depth will have you listening to it over and over. Despite all that was oh-so wrong with the ‘80s, Steve Lukather generally channels what fond memories we have of the decade, throws in some religion, shreds on his Music Man, and gives us a viably nostalgic solo album. God bless you Steve Lukather.
