Tom Morello, the iconic guitarist from Rage Against the Machine, Audioslave, and Prophets of Rage, has announced the release of his first full-length solo rock album. The album’s debut single, “Soldier In The Army Of Love,” is set to drop on June 28. This track, co-written with his son Roman Morello, is described by Tom as a “generational rock anthem from the Morellos.”
Tom Morello shared the exciting news on Instagram, expressing his enthusiasm for the upcoming release. He wrote, “Excited to announce that SOLDIER IN THE ARMY OF LOVE, the debut single from my first ever full length solo rock album, is coming out June 28th! Co-written with my guitar wizard son, Roman Morello, it’s a generational rock anthem from the Morello’s.”
This announcement has sparked curiosity among fans, especially considering Morello’s previous solo projects. Between 2018 and 2021, he released a trilogy of albums under the title “The Atlas Underground,” which blended rock with electronic elements and featured numerous collaborations. Despite these releases, Morello is positioning this new album as his first true solo rock effort.
Morello’s son, Roman, has been making waves in the music world as well. Last year, Tom shared a video on Instagram of the then 12-year-old Roman performing Rage Against the Machine’s “Killing In The Name” with band members Tim Commerford and Brad Wilk during a tour soundcheck. Tom has often spoken about how Roman’s guitar skills have inspired him, even admitting that his son can outplay him when it comes to lead guitar.
In an interview with Rolling Stone in March 2023, Tom said, “I’ve been very inspired by my 11-year-old son. I’ve been relegated to being the rhythm guitar player in my family now because my 11-year-old can shred circles around me. I’ve been inspired by him. He’s been writing some riffs, and I’ve been writing some riffs. It’s been fun.”
Roman Morello has also collaborated with other young musicians. In 2021, he recorded a solo on Nandi Bushell’s single “The Children Will Rise Up,” a song that addresses environmental injustice. The track featured a chorus of children’s voices, emphasizing the younger generation’s commitment to making their voices heard.
Tom Morello was the only member of Rage Against the Machine to attend the band’s Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony last November at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. The induction came after the band had appeared on six ballots. Morello expressed his gratitude to the fans, saying, “Upon our Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction I’d like to say thank you to all the RAGE AGAINST THE MACHINE fans who over the course of 30+ years have been the heart and soul of the music.”
Rage Against the Machine’s comeback tour, initially announced in 2019, faced multiple delays due to the pandemic. The tour was further disrupted in October 2022 when singer Zack De La Rocha suffered a severe Achilles tendon injury. Despite these setbacks, the band’s reunion marked their first tour together since 2011.
Tom Morello’s new single, “Soldier In The Army Of Love,” is available for pre-save now. Fans are eagerly awaiting the release of the full album, which promises to showcase Morello’s signature guitar prowess and the influence of his talented son. This album marks a new chapter in Morello’s illustrious career, blending his rock roots with fresh, generational energy.
Stay tuned for more updates on Tom Morello’s first full-length solo rock album, set to be released later this year. The anticipation is building, and fans are excited to see what the legendary guitarist has in store.