Simon Phillips is by far one of the world's most renowned and respected drummers, whose style not only reflects his technical gift but also his distinct musical sensibility. Whether it is rock, fusion or jazz, Simon applies the same precision and intensity to his drumming, which is never lacking in emotion and feel. Phillips is a musician’s musician, one of the UK’s most versatile drummers and a ‘first call’ for the world’s foremost musicians.
Phillips found an early prominence as the drummer on the 1976 LP 801 Live with Phil Manzanera and Brian Eno. He went onto play with a wide array of musicians including Big Jim Sullivan, Big Country, Toto, Steve Lukather, Jeff Beck, Whitesnake, Jack Bruce, Mike Oldfield, Jon Anderson, 10cc, Mick Jagger, Joe Satriani, Phil Manzanera, Asia, Stanley Clarke, and Jimmy Earl. He was the drummer for The Who in their 1989 American reunion tour, and appeared on solo recordings by band members Roger Daltrey and Pete Townshend. He has also worked with Tears For Fears, and with heavy metal act Judas Priest. Among other co-producer credits, he also co-produced and mixed two albums by Mike Oldfield.
In 1992, Phillips was asked to fill in for Jeff Porcaro. Steve Lukather stated that he would only go on tour so shortly after Porcaro died if Toto could get Phillips to play the tour, so he was the first and only drummer that the band contacted to replace Porcaro. After the 1992/93tour Phillips was asked to join Toto as a permanent member.
In 2009, Phillips joined with keyboardist Philippe Saisse and bassist Pino Palladino in forming an instrumental jazz/funk rock trio: Phillips Saisse Palladino or PSP. As well as touring with his own Protocol II, Simon also currently tours with Hiromi and Toto.
Phillips is accompanied by Andy Timmons on guitar, Ernest Tibbs on bass, Steve Weingart on keyboards.
Simon Phillips & Protocol II / Friday April 4 at 8PM & 10PM
ALL TICKETS $20 / Box Office 313-887-8501