Posted by There may not be a more fitting venue for one of rock’s original “Yacht Rock” giants than Northwell at Jones Beach Theater. And the night couldn’t be more perfect! Perched on the shores of Zachs Bay, the open-air amphitheater provides the perfect backdrop for Toto’s polished blend of rock, pop, jazz, funk, and soul. While the term “Yacht Rock” has become synonymous with the band’s radio staples, it hardly does justice to the extraordinary level of musicianship that has defined Toto for nearly five decades.
Virtually everyone knows the name Toto, but fewer realize the band’s origins. Formed in the late 1970s by some of Los Angeles’ most sought-after session musicians, the members collectively performed on thousands of recordings before ever stepping onto a stage as Toto. That pedigree remains evident every time they perform. Tour after tour, they continue to remind audiences that technical brilliance and genuine musical chemistry are not mutually exclusive—they are the very foundation of what makes Toto one of the premier live acts in rock music.
Leading the charge is guitarist Steve Lukather, the band’s sole remaining original touring member and one of the most respected guitarists of his generation. Whether unleashing the muscular riffs of “Kingdom of Desire” or delivering tasteful, melodic phrasing during the evening’s more intimate moments, Lukather’s playing remains both commanding and deeply expressive. His effortless wit and relaxed stage presence make him the natural anchor of the performance, connecting seamlessly with both the audience and his fellow musicians.
Frontman Joseph Williams continues to defy time. Since returning to the band, his voice has retained the remarkable clarity and power that first distinguished him in the late 1980s. His soaring vocals remain strong, his phrasing precise, and his confidence never overshadows the music itself. Rather than demanding attention, Williams earns it with every performance, demonstrating why he remains one of rock’s most underrated vocalists.
Adding another layer of continuity is longtime collaborator Warren Ham, whose versatility borders on astonishing. Moving effortlessly between vocals, saxophone, harmonica, flute, percussion, and occasional guitar, Ham provides both musical depth and visual energy. His contributions often serve as the connective tissue between songs, enriching Toto’s already expansive arrangements with warmth, color, and unmistakable professionalism.
The rhythm section is equally formidable. Bassist John Pierce, whose résumé includes many successful years with Huey Lewis and the News, locks into an intuitive groove with drummer Shannon Forrest, creating a foundation that is simultaneously powerful, precise, and remarkably fluid. Together they propel the music with understated confidence, allowing every arrangement to breathe while maintaining impeccable timing and feel.
Rounding out the ensemble are keyboardists Dennis Atlas and Rai Thistlethwayte, whose combined talents recreate Toto’s famously layered studio recordings with remarkable authenticity. Atlas, a young virtuoso possessing an old soul, effortlessly transitions between vintage synthesizers, piano, and lead vocals, while Thistlethwayte complements him beautifully with rich piano textures, Hammond organ, atmospheric keyboards, and impeccable vocal harmonies. Together, they recreate the lush sonic landscape that has become a hallmark of Toto’s music, while their flawless harmonies elevate every chorus and remind the audience that world-class musicianship is alive and well.
Watching this lineup perform, it becomes abundantly clear why Toto has endured for nearly fifty years. Every member is an accomplished musician in his own right, yet there is never a sense of ego competing for the spotlight. Instead, each performance serves the song—a philosophy born from their session-musician roots and one that continues to distinguish Toto from so many of their contemporaries.
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SETLIST
Goodbye Elenore, Rosanna, Hydra, Georgy Porgy, I Won’t Hold You Back, Endless, Kingdom of Desire, Pamela, I’ll Be Over You, Supply the Love, Taint Your World, Hold the Line, Africa
Long Island Sounds 