Description

Triumph – The Sport Of Kings – Vinyl Record

The Sport of Kings is the eighth studio album by the Canadian rock band Triumph, released in 1986. This album represents a significant shift in the band’s musical direction, incorporating more synthesizers and pop-oriented elements compared to their earlier, more hard rock-driven releases. The album showcases the band’s versatility and ability to adapt to the changing musical landscape of the mid-1980s.

The Sport of Kings features a blend of melodic rock, hard rock, and pop rock, with polished production and an emphasis on catchy hooks and accessible melodies. The album’s production, overseen by the band along with producers Mike Clink and Thom Trumbo, reflects the high standards of the era, with a clear and dynamic sound that highlights both the instrumental and vocal performances.

Key tracks on the album include ‘Somebody’s Out There,’ ‘Tears in the Rain,’ and ‘Just One Night.’ ‘Somebody’s Out There’ was a significant hit for the band, reaching the Top 40 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song is characterized by its catchy chorus, upbeat tempo, and anthemic feel, making it one of Triumph’s most memorable tracks. ‘Tears in the Rain’ is another standout, featuring emotive lyrics and a powerful vocal performance by Rik Emmett. ‘Just One Night’ is a melodic rock ballad that showcases the band’s ability to craft heartfelt and relatable songs.

Other notable tracks include ‘Play with the Fire,’ which combines driving guitar riffs with synthesizer accents, and ‘Don’t Love Anybody Else But Me,’ which features a strong vocal delivery and infectious melody. ‘Take a Stand’ and ‘Hooked on You’ continue the album’s exploration of themes such as love, perseverance, and self-empowerment.

The Sport of Kings also marked a period of internal changes for Triumph, with Rik Emmett taking on a more prominent role as the lead vocalist and primary songwriter. The album’s sound reflects the band’s attempt to reach a broader audience and gain mainstream success, which they achieved to some extent with the success of singles like ‘Somebody’s Out There.’

The reception to The Sport of Kings was mixed, with some fans and critics appreciating the band’s experimentation and polished sound, while others missed the heavier, more guitar-centric style of their earlier work. Despite this, the album remains an important part of Triumph’s discography, showcasing their adaptability and willingness to evolve.

The Sport of Kings is an album that highlights Triumph’s exploration of more mainstream and pop-oriented rock, featuring catchy melodies, polished production, and a mix of rock anthems and ballads. It stands as a testament to the band’s versatility and their ability to craft memorable songs that resonate with a wide audience. For fans of melodic rock and those interested in the band’s evolution, The Sport of Kings offers a compelling and enjoyable listening experience.

Brand new, never played and still sealed in the factory plastic seal with jacket slit

MCA Records 1986

Track Listing
Tears in the Rain
What Rules My Heart
Hooked on You
Embrujo [Instrumental]
Play With the Fire
Just One Night
Somebody’s Out There
Don’t Love Anybody Else But Me
In the Middle of the Night
If Only
Take a Stand