Tom Morello's new rock anthem 'Soldier in the Army of Love' features guitar wizardry from son Roman

Tom Morello, guitarist of Rage Against the Machine, recently unveiled his latest single, "Soldier in the Army of Love," which features a special contribution from his 13-year-old son, Roman. This track is a standout from what Morello describes as "my first ever full-length solo rock album," marking a significant step in his solo career — stereotypically a "sink or swim" thing for musicians. The song is now available for streaming.

"Soldier in the Army of Love" is intended as a powerful anthem for change, characterized by robust guitar riffs and a dynamic solo performed by Roman, who also played a key role in writing the song. The lyrics have the feeling of triumph: "Tectonic plates set to shift/ Border patrol’ll never catch this riff/ Gotta turn your illness to a weapon, son/ Who needs a weapon when you were born one?"

The words reflect Morello’s call to harness personal struggles as a force for justice, and are more political than Audsioslave lyrics such as "Like a Stone" (though Audsioslave and even Soundgarden did have some lyrics with political elements at times). Morello emphasized the song’s dual role in his statement, describing it as both a "balm to heal the soul" and a "battering ram to fight for justice."

He also highlighted the song’s generational significance, noting that the heaviest riffs were crafted by his young son, Roman, who he proudly referred to as a "guitar wizard." This collaboration gives Morello hope for a new generation of "soldiers in the army of love" who are ready to continue the fight for justice through music.

Tom Morello, solo artist

Morello is no stranger to solo projects, having previously released three albums under his name: The Atlas Underground (2018), The Atlas Underground Fire (2021), and The Atlas Underground Flood (2021).

These albums were distinguished by their extensive lineup of guest artists, including musicians from a variety of genres, intended to create a rich, collaborative sound. However, "Soldier in the Army of Love" represents a departure from this approach, as it focuses on Morello’s own rock roots and his personal connection with his son.

In addition to his recording work, including a track with Def Leppard, Morello has been actively performing live. Recently, he joined Jane’s Addiction on stage in Germany, where they delivered powerful renditions of "Mountain Song" and "Chip Away."

Tom Morello on tour, and spats with online randos

Morello is currently touring Europe, playing solo concerts and festival dates, and is set to return to the United States this fall for appearances at major music festivals such as Louder Than Life and Aftershock. In addition to some of his often outlandish guitar playing (in a good way) and heavy fiery riffs, Morello has been sometimes known to bring the fire against false claims online, which will no doubt continue even as he tours.

For one classic example, regarding an accusation that Rage Against the Machine required fans to be vaccinated at shows: "No offense but you’re a f***ing idiot. RATM has played 19 shows in the last 13 years and ZERO of those shows have required vax. Pass this along to your idiots friends por fa vor. Also, while you’re mewling about Big Pharma, how about Big Oil and Big Tobacco and Big Landlords and Big Military and Big Elon? It’s called Big Capitalism vs human beings and the our planet. So I accept your apology and let’s aim at the right target bubba."

He clarified that he was himself not anti-vax, but that he merely wanted to set the record straight on their lack of shows during the heyday of the pandemic, and what role the band actually plays at setting venue policies. His ongoing tour highlights his continued influence and dedication to live performance, even as he explores new creative avenues in his solo career.

At a time when some older rockers are canceling tours for health reasons, here's hoping that Tom Morello has plenty of more years left to rock out. It's also heartwarming to know he's sharing axe duties with his son.

Here is some classic Rage: