Phillips, Simon: Protocol 6

One of my most anticipated releases of 2026, Protocol 6 delivers exactly what fans hoped for: another masterclass from drummer extraordinaire Simon Phillips and his formidable band. Like a fine wine, Phillips somehow keeps improving with age, not just behind the kit, but as a composer, arranger, and producer. His fingerprints are everywhere, and the results are outstanding. “Andromeda,� one of the prerelease teasers, opens the album with authority. A subtle piano motif sets the stage before Alex Sill and newest member Phillip Whack (saxophone) tear into some blistering solo work. The way the lead lines shift ever so slightly from measure to measure unveils his clever songwriting that rewards close listening.

“Unstable Grounds� brings the funk, with Phillips and bassist Ernest Tubbs locking into a deep, infectious groove. Phillips has always had a knack for memorable melodies, and this track is pure earworm territory. Omar Ruiz’s electricpiano stabs add bite, while Sill and Whack nail the unison lines with precision and swagger. “Intrepid Traveller� keeps things moving with Tubbs walking bass lines and Phillips tasteful drumming, while Sill’s clean tone caught my ear, love his guitar runs. “As The River Flows� slows things down but sucks you in with another terrific melody and the addition of acoustic guitar fits nicely, When Ruiz kicks in for his solo, you are transported to an intimate jazz club, that’s the feeling the music conveys.

Alex Sill continues his ascent into guitarhero territory on “Code 4 Kryptos,� delivering scorching lead work that cements him as one of the most exciting players in modern fusion. But the album’s crown jewel is the 14minute epic “Event Horizon,� where every musician shines. The beautiful piano and guitar intro perfectly open the song, and it quickly evolves into a barn burner. Ruiz’s piano playing is both beautiful and powerful, his synth solo is a highlight. Sill dazzles yet again, navigating seamless transitions and dynamic shifts with ease. It’s the kind of track that reminds you why Protocol remains essential listening.

The album closes with “Sundown in Old Town,� a laidback, contemplative piece that offers a gentle landing after the intensity that precedes it.

Protocol continues to wave the fusion flag high, and Protocol 6 is another home run. At this point, the band belongs in any conversation about the best modern fusion outfits, they’re not just carrying the torch, they’re shaping the future of the genre.

Favorite Tracks: “Andromeda�, “Event Horizon�

Track Listing
1. Andromeda
2. Unstable Grounds
3. Intrepid Traveller
4. As The River Flows
5. Code 4 Kryptos
6. Event Horizon
7. Sundown In Old Town

Added: July 11th 2026
Reviewer: Eric Porter
Score:
Related Link: Simon Phillips online
Hits: 29
Language: english

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