TRILLION III – Ray Of Light [MelodicRock Classics remaster] (2025) *Exclusive*

HERE ///

MelodicRock Classics partened with classic pomp-rockers TRILLION for a physical release of their acclaimed 2011 EP ‘Trillion III‘. For this occasion, the release will be re-titled ‘Ray Of Light‘ and feature brand new artwork by resident MRC graphic artist Nello Dell’Omo.
‘Ray Of Light’ will be released in June, and we have it here in exclusive at 0dayrox.
The songs were written and recorded by early band members Thom Griffin, Frank Barbalace, Bill Wilkins and CJ Vanston as well as additional keyboards by founding member, Patrick Leonard and bass by Dave La Rue.
As a very special bonus, there’s 5 solo tracks from singer/songwriter Thom Griffin to round out the release.

Bill Wilkins sums up the band’s feelings: “I had always wanted to pick it up again and just see what might happen. After a number of years and a move back to Chicago I decided to test the waters and see if there was any interest. Thom Griffin, Frank Barbalace and I met together at a drum clinic given by Steve Smith of Journey fame. It was the first time we’d been together in the same room in years. We weren’t sure if there would be anything like the chemistry we had in the past but we were excited to find out.
We hope you’ll feel the same energy and excitement that we felt writing and recording the five songs that the three of us have contributed to this CD as well as the wonderful songs that Thom has contributed with so many talented artists that you’ll recognize. If you close your eyes you just might be able to see the crowds and that Golden Sun Beyond!”

Thom Griffin added a few thoughts about his solo songs: “I just recorded each song as it came to me. When my “music muse” pays a visit, I try to pay attention! I still love doing this, the music has never failed me!”

TRILLION is one of of favorite pomp-AOR bands, so it’s apleasure to hear “Ray Of Light”.
After signing with a major label in 1978, the band released two acclaimed albums, the first self-titled with Fergie Frederiksen (Toto) on vocals, being produced by Gary Lyons (Foreigner, Grateful Dead), and the second, “Clear Approach” produced by John Boylan (Boston).
How on Earth could they come to an end after that fantastic 2nd album is beyond me.

For that second LP “Clear Approach” (1979) the band recruited excellent vocalist Thom Griffin, who after the band’s broke-up, dissapeared from the mainstream music business, only working as sessionist (providing background vocals for Dennis DeYoung, Steve Walsh, Jimi Jamison, Night Ranger, etc) and songwriter… Until 2005 when he was called to lay down his unmistakable golden throat on the ‘Ambition’ album / project together with Tommy Denander.

Both Trillion classic albums have been remastered and reissued recently, and the last incarnation of the band decided to work on new material; ” Trillion III ” .
Griffin, Frank Barbalace and Bill Wilkins called famed monster session-man CJ Vanston (Steve Lukather, Jeff Beck) to provide keyboards and began recording. Added to the Trillion III project as well is bassist Dave LaRue from the Dixie Dregs.
Original Trillion keyboard player Patrick Leonard has also played on one track (“Golden Sun Beyond”) which has made the project much more unique.

“Trillion III” consists of music that evolved within the recording into the studio retaining the originality of Trillion’s sound and style, with an updated approach and execution. “Golden Sun Beyond” and “In My Blood” both retains that characteristically magic of classic Trillion with the right AOR-prog dash throwing in. “She Hates Sunday” has a different, more commercial melodic rock feel – like Mecca – excellent as well.
HIGHLY Recommended (contributors get the album today)

Only at 0dayrox

Trillion III:
01. Ray of Light
02. Golden Sun Beyond
03. She Hates Sunday
04. In My Blood
05. Innocence
Thom Griffin:
06. One Last Time
07. How Long
08. One Fine Day
09. Eight Get Bye
10. Stand By My Side

Thom Griffin – Lead Vocals
Frank Barbalace – Guitars, Vocals
Bill Wilkins – Drums
CJ Vanston – Keyboards
Patrick Leonard – Keyboards on ‘Golden Sun Beyond’
Dave La Rue – Bass

Pre order:
plastichead.com/trillion-iii-ray-of-light-compact-disc-mrc059