Brian Greenway has expressed concerns about Triumph’s upcoming reunion tour, pointing to potential challenges the band could face during its planned 2026 run. Speaking in an interview with The Metal Voice, the April Wine guitarist questioned whether the Triumph members are fully prepared for the physical demands of touring after a 30-year hiatus.
Greenway referenced recent appearances connected to the band and comments made by Triumph guitarist Rik Emmett, expressing concern about overall readiness.
“Yeah, well, that started with the Stanley Cup games, right? And Phil X and the other two guys (Todd Kerns, Brent Fitz) were with them,” Greenway said. “Last night there was a little blurb from Rick Emmett about how he’s so out of shape for touring. It’s been 30 years. And I go, ‘Man, this is a big thing that’s been offered to you, you know, get yourself ready.’”
Greenway went on to contrast Triumph’s situation with April Wine’s own touring routine, emphasizing the importance of consistency and preparation.
“We’ve been doing it non-stop, so we’re ready,” he continued. “But if they’re not ready, it’s going to kill them. You know, even at a nice arena tour, and they are playing 90 minutes a night, but we’re only doing two or three shows in a row. Also they didn’t help each other well by saying they might not be at every show.”
April Wine is scheduled to serve as the opening act on Triumph’s reunion tour in 2026, placing Greenway in a position to closely observe the band’s return to large-scale touring.
Triumph’s upcoming run marks its most extensive touring commitment in decades and represents a major milestone for the Canadian rock veterans. According to Ultimate Classic Rock, the Rock & Roll Machine Reloaded tour will visit 24 cities, launching April 22 in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, and wrapping up June 6 in Boston. The tour will be the band’s first full touring cycle since 1993.
The reunion will feature the band’s classic lineup of Rik Emmett, Mike Levine, and Gil Moore, with additional support from Phil X, Brent Fitz, and Todd Kerns. Loudwire reported that the additional musicians will help bolster the performances during the band’s 50th anniversary celebration.
Fan response to the announcement has been strong. Blabbermouth noted that Emmett has suggested the tour could be extended depending on ticket demand. The Canadian leg is currently scheduled to run through May 8 in Calgary before moving into U.S. dates.
As Greenway highlighted, the physical demands of returning to the road after such a long absence remain a serious concern. With the original Triumph members facing 90-minute performances across multiple nights after decades away from consistent touring, preparation and conditioning will play a crucial role in determining the success of their highly anticipated comeback.
