Rock fans, melodic masterminds and prog loversโฆ gather round, because thereโs a proper tasty release heading our way this May! ๐ถ
Dennis Atlas, best known as the keyboard wizard and vocalist for the legendary Toto, is stepping out from behind the keys and into centre stage with his brand-new solo album PRINCIPLE, arriving on 15th May.
And trust us, this isnโt your average solo record.
Packed with huge melodies, soaring vocals, top-tier musicianship and a guest list that reads like a backstage pass to a rock hall of fame, PRINCIPLE looks set to be one of the yearโs standout melodic rock releases.
๐ A Dream Team of Rock Icons
Dennis hasnโt exactly been shy when it comes to recruiting talent.
Joining him across the album are some absolute heavyweights of the rock world, including:
- ๐ธ Steve Lukather
- ๐น David Paich
- ๐ค Joseph Williams
- ๐ฅ Marco Minnemann
- ๐ธ Bumblefoot
- ๐ค Plus even more incredible guest musicians.
As if that wasnโt enough, the album has been mixed by Trev Lukather and mastered by Bumblefoot, giving PRINCIPLE a polished, arena-ready sound thatโs built to be played loud.
๐ถ Eleven Tracks of Passion, Precision and Pure Rock
Across its 11-track journey, Dennis Atlas blends thoughtful songwriting with explosive musicianship, creating an album that feels both classic and fresh.
Expect:
- ๐น Huge keyboard-driven melodies
- ๐ธ Crunchy guitar work
- ๐ค Powerful, emotional vocals
- ๐ฅ World-class drumming
- ๐ถ Big choruses that are destined to stick in your head
Whether youโre into classic AOR, progressive rock or modern melodic rock, PRINCIPLE looks ready to tick plenty of boxes.
โก โViolent Powerโ Kicks Things Off
Leading the charge is the albumโs first single, โViolent Power.โ
The track showcases Dennis Atlas at his absolute best, delivering commanding vocals while also handling multiple instruments throughout the song.
Behind the kit is none other than progressive drumming powerhouse Marco Minnemann, whose trademark precision and energy help drive the song into overdrive.
Meanwhile, Toto frontman Joseph Williams takes the directorโs chair for the official music video, making this release feel like a real family affair among some of rockโs most respected musicians.
๐ค More Than Just โThe Guy From Totoโ
Although many fans know Dennis from his outstanding work alongside Toto, PRINCIPLE gives listeners a chance to experience his own creative vision without compromise.
Itโs clear this album has been crafted with incredible attention to detail, balancing technical musicianship with memorable songwriting and emotional weight.
Sometimes solo albums can feel like side projects.
This one feels like a statement.
๐ธ The Riff Reportโs Take
We absolutely love seeing musicians step outside their famous bands and create something thatโs entirely their own.
With an all-star supporting cast, exceptional production and a first single thatโs already turning heads, PRINCIPLE has all the ingredients to become one of the sleeper hits of the melodic rock world in 2026.
If youโre a fan of Toto, Flying Colors, Sons of Apollo, Dream Theater, Steve Lukather, or simply brilliant musicians playing brilliantly crafted songs, this deserves a place on your radar.
Weโll definitely be giving this one a proper spin here at The Riff Report. ๐ธ
๐ PRINCIPLE
๐ Release Date: 15th May
๐ฅ Featured Musicians
- Dennis Atlas
- Steve Lukather
- David Paich
- Joseph Williams
- Marco Minnemann
- Bumblefoot
- Plus special guests
๐ต Lead Single
โViolent Powerโ
๐ค The Riff Report Saysโฆ
This has all the hallmarks of an album that rewards repeat listens. Big songs, world-class musicians, and enough passion to remind everyone why melodic rock continues to thrive.
Weโll be keeping our ears firmly tuned for PRINCIPLE when it lands.
Will you be checking out Dennis Atlasโ solo debut, butt? Let us know your thoughts over on The Riff Reportโs socials and tell us if โViolent Powerโ has already earned a place in your playlist! ๐น๐ฅ๐ค
