How Alex Lifeson Persuaded Triumph’s Rik Emmett to Bring His ‘Fat Bastard’ Guitar on Tour
Triumph fans have been thrilled to experience many of the band’s iconic moments on their Rock & Roll Machine Reloaded tour this spring, including Rik Emmett wielding his white double-neck Gibson guitar for “Blinding Light Show,” just like he did in the past.
Emmett reveals that he was initially hesitant to bring the heavy instrument on tour again but changed his mind after a conversation with Alex Lifeson from Rush, another esteemed Canadian trio. Lifeson affectionately refers to his own double-neck guitar as ‘the Fat Bastard,’ which inspired Emmett to bring his own out on stage. After confirming with Lifeson that he was bringing ‘the Fat Bastard’ on tour with Rush, Emmett felt compelled to include his guitar for at least one song during Triumph’s performances.
While performing with the double-neck guitar is physically demanding for Emmett, he acknowledges the joy it brings him and the audience. The current tour marks Triumph’s first full concerts since 2008, with Emmett and Gil Moore back together after more than three decades. Although bassist-keyboardist Mike Levine couldn’t join due to health reasons, the group has been joined by guitarist Phil X, bassist Todd Kerns, and drummer Brent Fitz, forming an expanded version of Triumph.
Emmett expresses his excitement at the harmonies and musical capabilities of the new lineup, noting the enhanced vocal harmonies that were not possible in the original trio. The addition of talented musicians has rejuvenated the band and allowed them to deliver unforgettable performances during each show on the tour. One of the standout moments was their hometown performance in Toronto, where Emmett’s family members watched from a private box, leaving a lasting impact on his grandson.
Despite the physical toll of the tour, Emmett cherishes the experience of performing for enthusiastic audiences and witnessing the musical chemistry of the new lineup. While he remains noncommittal about the future of Triumph and the possibility of new music, Emmett emphasizes the importance of enjoying the present moment and evaluating future prospects after a well-deserved break from the road.
As the tour continues, Emmett remains focused on delivering exceptional performances and relishing the opportunity to share the stage with his bandmates. The enthusiasm and camaraderie within Triumph’s extended lineup have breathed new life into their classic songs, creating memorable moments for both the band and their dedicated fans.