Robin Trower UK Tour Dates 2016 & New Studio Album "Where You Are Going To"

Robin Trower's creative and unique guitar playing powers are still in evidence with each concert tour and album. His musical vision, abilities and passion continue to astound me. Just when I think Robin may run out of stamina and ideas - the guy is seventy-one: yes, yes, but how does he do it? - along comes 2016. A year which finds Robin in the middle of a US tour, releasing a new studio album "Where You Are Going To", and undertaking a UK tour in the autumn. On another level, some reviewers and critics of Robin Trower and his music are so rapt in nostalgia and comparisons with other musicians' that their writing shows an inability to think deeply, to pay attention, to listen. Perhaps 'they' should grow a pair of ears, or get a job at a local theatre selling ice cream: doing something they may have an inkling about.

Robin Trower opened his current US tour in Fort Lauderdale, Florida on 30 March 2016. Customarily his many fans were out in force to welcome and witness a great musician and gifted guitar player in live performance. It is gratifying to read that Robin and his band - Richard Watts (bass and vocals) and Chris Taggart (drums) - are getting a great reception at each concert and that Robin is still playing with passion, spirit, power and eloquent phrasing. Music should move you to the core of your soul and I - like many others - prefer an artist who plays with sheer emotional power over an artist who plays with technical perfection. It helps your brain to breathe. The tour will help to promote the new studio album "Where You Are Going To".

Track List

When Will The Next Blow Fall
Where You Are Going To
Back Where You Belong
Jigsaw
The Fruits of Your Desire
We Will Be Together Someday
Ain’t No Use To Worry
In Too Deep
I’m Holding on to You
Delusion Sweet Delusion

Robin's new album is steeped in history, emotions, the human soul, reflection and introspection. The music is finely blended, as it has been since the early 70's, and goes down easy. Undoubtedly, Robin is going through a powerfully creative phase in his career and I believe that the new studio recordings deserve critical praise. The music, melodies, arrangements, lyrics, guitar parts/tones, solos, drummer Chris Taggart and the production combine to create a fresh emotional soundscape. Any reservations I may have had regarding Robin's vocal and harmony abilities have been dispelled on this record. "Where You Are Going To" has all the resonances of Robin Trower's best work. Buy the album and catch him in concert while you still can.  

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Robin Trower: CD Review "Something’s About To Change" & USA Concert Tour in 2015

 Photograph © Michael Leach

Robin Trower is an engaging musician and guitarist much undervalued in his own country. His music is direct and soulful in its intensity, especially live. Robin creates a lyrical, ethereal sound quite unlike any other guitarist alive or dead. Frankly, the constant comparisons of Robin's guitar playing and music to other musicians is damn tiring to read never mind listen to. The comments and prejudices expressed by mulish music critics, reviewers and music aficionados about Robin Trower's solo work are depressingly predictable. I see no point in grading musicians and guitarists as better or worse among themselves. I respect their genuine differences. Even at their least successful, the music created by a musician may be admired and have deep meaning to the listener.

It takes great physical, emotional and spiritual stamina to sustain a successful career through each different phase, each new studio album, and to continue to reach listeners and inspire other musicians. Robin Trower remains one of the most gifted electric guitar players of the twentieth century and thankfully he is still creating music and playing in performance today. I hope, and suspect, that someday Robin Trower's music and guitar playing will receive the recognition it genuinely deserves.

This summer Robin, with Chris Taggart on drums and Richard Watts on vocals and bass guitar, will be on tour in the USA starting with a concert in Tulsa on 2 June culminating with a gig in Seattle on 3 July. I'm sure the atmosphere at each concert will be highly charged with expectation and emotion. Also, that Richard and Chris will provide the perfect musical backcloth for Robin to solo with his unique guitar style and sound. I admit to disappointment, however, that the set list for 'recent' tours has remained virtually unchanged. It would be wonderful if Robin showcased other songs from his extensive musical catalogue in live performance. One of the great pleasures over the last decade has been the inclusion of songs from diverse periods of Robin's career which have invigorated his set. 

    
The variety and range of musical output by Robin Trower from his earliest work to the latest album, Something's About To Change, is to be admired for its spirit, soulfulness and quality. In interviews when Robin comments on his studio albums, long after they've been released, he acknowledges that some albums fall short of his own vision and artistic expectations. Each person has their own long-standing favourite Robin Trower albums and tracks. While I believe that some of his albums are uneven in quality, and contain songs which sound repetitious or simply vapid, I'm always pleasantly surprised by the magic generated by some of Robin's new material. The lyrics, music and guitar solos tend not to get lost and lie ingrained in the memory.

Tracklisting 

The title track 'Something's About To Change' opens Robin Trower's new album. The atmosphere and sound is Robin at his best. The drums and bass create a hypnotic "cooking" rhythm and the song contains Robin's best vocal and guitar soloing on the album. The song provides a great build-up to Robin's first and second solo where every note is made to tell. The brooding spirit of the blues, and Robin's airy, soulful guitar hang over the entire track. I wish the second solo had lasted longer and the track listing had been edited to exclude two or three of the undistinguished songs on the album.

'Riff No.7 (Still Alive)' is lyrical and funky with a tight groove. The changing chords and phrases build the tension and, once again, Robin's tone and soloing is excellent but way too short (track length 3:11?!). 

'Dreams That Shone Like Diamonds' has a potent and subtle emotional resonance. The chorus is haunting and memorable, catchy, reflective. The verses are mostly spoken by Robin Trower like a kind of prayer and the track contains some of Robin's most moving and eloquent playing.

'Strange Love' has a slow, flowing groove. Robin's vocals are gentle, yet passionate. His lead guitar shines on this song with extraordinary lyricism, feeling and spirit. Memorable lyrics. 

'The One Saving Grace' has a more pronounced sound than the other tracks on the album, except the title song. The drums and percussion have a more solid feel and Robin whips up the tension with his soloing. Robin's guitar tone is breathtaking and his playing is poetic and passionate (track length 3:06?!). Another song that deserved a longer solo and fade out. In terms of the overall sound of the album - dynamics, rhythms, performances - the inclusion of a talented and expressive bass player may have radically changed the pedestrian feel of some of the songs and added new and intense dimensions.     

The beauty of great (perhaps good) music is that you can listen to it many times with added pleasure, similar to rewatching a movie or rereading a novel. If Robin Trower's music continues to touch your mind and heart you are on a passionate and rewarding venture. 

 Robin Trower

James Dewar

Reg Isidore

Robin Trower Tour Dates: United States 2014 & European/UK Dates 2015

It's inspiring news that Robin Trower is touring the United States in 2014 starting in St Louis on October, 4, and culminating with a concert in Fort Lauderdale on November, 14. North American fans will also be delighted that Robin is planning concerts in the Southern and Western states in the summer of 2015.

Following a short tour of the Netherlands beginning on March 11, 2015 in Arnhem, Robin will play concerts in England and Scotland. The following tour dates are confirmed and 'Presale tickets' are available.

Robin Trower: UK Tour Dates March/April 2015 

26 Mar - The Engine Shed, University of Lincoln, Lincoln 
27 Mar - The Apex, Bury St Edmunds
28 Mar - Birmingham Town Hall, Birmingham
29 Mar - The Lowry, Salford, Greater Manchester
02 Apr - The Live Rooms, Chester
03 Apr - The Sage Gateshead, Gateshead
04 Apr - The Arches, Glasgow
05 Apr - The Lemon Tree, Aberdeen

07 Apr - Arc (Stockton Arts Centre), Stockton-on-Tees

08 Apr - The York Barbican, York
09 Apr - Sheffield City Hall, Sheffield
10 Apr - Holmfirth Picturedrome, Holmfirth 
11 Apr - O2 Shepherds Bush Empire, London
14 Apr - Hawth Theatre, Crawley, West Sussex
15 Apr - Exeter Corn Exchange, Exeter
16 Apr - City Hall, Salisbury, Wiltshire
17 Apr - The Stables, Milton Keynes 

Robin Trower will be joined on the US & European tours by Richard Watts (bass and vocals) and Chris Taggart (drums). Robin has experimented, recorded and played concerts with this 'new' line-up, and appears to be satisfied that his music is best explored, created and delivered, at this stage of his career, with different musicians.

I hope Robin's 'present' musical vision is successful and, in terms of sound, quality, emotion, dynamics and group cohesiveness, that each concert on the United States & European tours highlight how revered Robin's guitar playing really is.

Robin Trower Facebook

Richard Watts

Chris Taggart

CD Review: Robin Trower "Roots And Branches" Release Date: 19 February 2013

'An artist's first responsibility is to himself.' - Miles Davis

Most of the songs on Roots And Branches are created around tight formal structures. The drums, bass and keyboards create a fine and subtle steady pulse throughout, which allow Robin Trower to perform some passionate and thoughtful soloing. Five of the eleven tracks are original compositions by Robin. The remaining six tracks are Robin's versions of songs that have inspired his appreciation of music, guitar playing and song writing.

From the opening track 'Hound Dog' it is evident that Robin continues to explore fresh ways of making music. In a sense, making music which enables Robin to escape from repeating himself in the studio, with the aim of furthering his musical development and, just as important, change. It is refreshing to hear Paul Jones soloing on harmonica over an ensemble which includes Luke Smith on keyboards. Robin's vocals remain a moot point. On this album, however, he sings with increased confidence, richer phrasing, and the end result is in harmony with the music.

Robin is definitely 'on the prowl' both in terms of vocals and playing on 'Little Red Rooster.' His guitar playing is alive with short incisive phrases during the verses, which create a wondrous crying sound. His guitar tone complements the hypnotic atmosphere sustained throughout the track. During the soloing Robin's performance is inspiring and bears all his memorable hallmarks: wide string bends, vibrato, slurs, and brooding phrases steeped in the blues. When Robin hits high notes with incredible vibrato during this track the outcome is moving and soulful. Truly a track of depth and brilliance.     

The track 'Shape of Things to Come' (placed at the center of the album) is, for me, a 'classic' Robin Trower song due to its intensity, atmosphere, and strident pulse. The rhythm section of Livingston Brown (bass) and Chris Taggart (drums) drive the song along as Robin solos with sustained vitality and depth.

The presence of 'That's Alright Mama' and 'Save Your Love' fall short of the standard set by the other tracks on the album. On 'That's Alright Mama' the clarity of the performance is hindered by the continued dialogue between Robin's guitar, the harmonica, keyboards, and rhythm section. I would have preferred a stripped down version of the song with the same pulse, emotion and structure. The restraint of 'Save your Love', while exuding a smooth sound, doesn't rise above slow standard twelve-bar blues.

The track 'See My Life' is a great climax to the album. Robin's guitar soloing highlights his range of feeling and improvisational skills at their finest. The addition of wah-wah to the effects adds to the lyrical and passionate sound.

Overall Roots And Branches contains moments of genuine inspiration and passion combined with a wide emotional range. I hope that Robin will tour sometime in the future and include some of the tracks of this album in his set list.                 

  

Tracklisting

01. Hound Dog  (J. Leiber & M. Stoller)
02. The Thrill Is Gone  (R. Hawkins & R. Darnell)
03. When I Heard Your Name (Robin Trower)
04. Little Red Rooster  (Willie Dixon)
05. I Believe to My Soul  (Ray Charles)
06. Shape of Things to Come  (Robin Trower)
07. That's Alright Mama  (Arthur "Big Boy" Crudup)
08. Save Your Love  (Robin Trower)
09. Born Under a Bad Sign  (W. Bell & Booker T. Jones)
10. Sheltered Moon  (Robin Trower)
11. See My Life  (Robin Trower)

Musicians:

Robin Trower: Guitars and Vocals
Livingstone Brown: Bass Guitar
Richard Watts: Bass Guitar and Vocals
Chris Taggart: Drums
Luke Smith: Keyboards
Paul Jones: Harmonica 

 

Robin Trower Official Site

Listen to song samples and buy CD/MP3s at Amazon

Robin Trower: UK/European Tour Dates - February/March 2013 (CANCELLED) & New Studio Album 'Roots And Branches' (Release Date: February 4, 2013 - Listen to song samples and Pre-order)

Please note that due to a serious family illness the following tour dates have been cancelled. The tour is being rescheduled, and details of dates and venues will be posted as they are confirmed.

UK/European Tour Dates - February/March 2013 

23 Feb - De Boerderij, Zoetermeer, Netherlands

24 Feb - Café de Noot, Amersfoort, Netherlands

28 Feb - The Rescue Rooms, Nottingham 

01 Mar - Citadel Arts Centre, St Helens, Liverpool

02 Mar - Fibbers, York 
07 Mar - Tivoli Theatre, Wimborne

08 Mar - Robin 2, Bilston, Wolverhampton

09 Mar - Gloucester Guildhall, Gloucester 

14 Mar - The Waterfront, Norwich

21 Mar - O2 Academy, Islington, London

22 Mar - Exeter Phoenix, Exeter, Devon

23 Mar - Pontardawe Arts Centre, Swansea, Wales 
28 Mar - ARC (Stockton Arts Centre), Stockton-on-Tees, Middlesbrough

29 Mar - Waterside Arts Centre, Manchester 
30 Mar - Picturedrome, Holmfirth

Robin's new studio album Roots and Branches will be released on February 4, 2013. The tracks represent a bold, radical musical step given that it contains a mixture of original compositions and Robin's musical interpretations of several standard songs. I hope Robin's new musical vision gets the adrenaline of his many fans flowing, and attracts new listeners' to his music. 

Tracklisting

01 Hound Dog
02 The Thrill Is Gone
03 When I Heard Your Name
04 Little Red Rooster
05 I Believe to My Soul
06 Shape of Things to Come
07 That's Alright Mama
08 Save Your Love
09 Born Under a Bad Sign
10 Sheltered Moon
11 See My Life

A UK/European Tour in late 2013 by Robin would provide a valuable platform to promote the album.

Robin Trower Official Site

Listen to song samples and buy CD/MP3s at Amazon

Robin Trower: European Tour Dates 2012 & Set List

Tickets are on sale for upcoming concerts by Robin Trower in Germany & the Netherlands in March 2012. The following dates are confirmed and tickets are on sale. Robin will be joined on the tour by Richard Watts (bass and vocals) and Chris Taggart (drums).

European Tour Dates - March 2012

15 Mar - Luxor Live, Arnhem, Netherlands 
16 Mar - Downtown Blues Club, Hamburg, Germany
17 Mar - KJK Sandgasse, Offenbach, Germany
18 Mar - Hirsh, Nuremberg, Germany
19 Mar - Spectrum Club, Augsburg, Germany
20 Mar - T.B.A. Berlin, Germany
21 Mar - Kulturscheune, Salzgitter, Germany
22 Mar - Heimathaus, Twist, Germany
23 Mar - Café Hahn, Koblenz, Germany  
24 Mar - Ducsaal, Freudenburg, Germany
25 Mar - Harmonie, Bonn, Germany

  European Set List March 2012 

 

DAY OF THE EAGLE

BRIDGE OF SIGHS
INSIDE NOT OUTSIDE
SEE MY LIFE
LADY LOVE
FOR EARTH BELOW
SOMEBODY CALLING
RISE UP LIKE THE SUN 

CONFESSIN' MIDNIGHT

LITTLE RED ROOSTER

THE TURNING

TOO ROLLING STONED

A LITTLE BIT OF SYMPATHY

  (Encores)

THAT’S ALRIGHT MAMA

DAYDREAM

Robin Trower Official Web Site

Concert Review: Robin Trower - The Caves, Edinburgh - 25 September 2011

Some artists sound much the same from one gig to the next; playing songs 'note for note' as per the recorded versions. With Robin (as with Jimi Hendrix and Rory Gallagher, whom I both still idolise) no two concerts are the same regarding the length of songs and instrumentals, or the level of colour or mood they radiate to the audience. Robin's playing remains fluid, improvisational, and each concert represents a concert without precedent.

Tonight Robin is playing The Caves: a venue hard to find, but once you do, is truly an amazing place. The fact it is underground, a windowless cave with low lighting, brick walls, make for an intimate atmosphere, ideal for music, live or otherwise. The low stage, however, can make it difficult for some fans to see the group properly during the performance. Robin is joined on stage tonight by Richard Watts (bass and vocals) and Chris Taggart (drums).

 Richard Watts

From the opening number "Confessin' Midnight" I'm pleased to see how each musician commands the stage, and unify to deliver powerful, emotionally expressive, fresh versions of some of Robin's greatest songs. Robin seems genuinely delighted to be performing with this line-up, occasionally lighting his face with a warm smile. As Robin feeds of the response and affection of the audience I'm sure there are moments tonight when he feels overwhelmed.

On "Lady Love" Richard's vocals confirm he has progressed to be a strong, dynamic singer. He sang the lyric with total conviction; a blend of passion and freshness, while delivering a deep, strong bass line. Some of the audience - including myself - felt, at times, Richard's bass was too low in the mix. The energy level of the band, however, was high and they delivered expressive, inspirational versions of "Somebody Calling" and "For Earth Below." Richard and Chris creating deep, rich grooves for Robin to play his guitar with freedom, imagination, and in his own phenomenal style. The band played a song I haven't heard before: "When I Heard Your Name" which confirms Robin remains a prolific, creative musician.   

Chris Taggart

Chris Taggart is a revelation on drums, adding colour, texture and driving rhythm grooves which weave into phrases that create a rich, colourful backcloth that Robin can solo over with intense creativity. His cymbal work is an integral part of his fine and subtle performance. The musicianship of Richard and Chris combine to provide a new dimension and sound to Robin's music; creating an hypnotic, spellbinding atmosphere.

Some fans are perturbed and mystified to find that Robin is playing tonight with a new rhythm section. Personnel changes - especially in a trio - can blend to create a change in musical colours, expressions, patterns, and make it sound completely fresh. The overall impression is that this rhythm section are perfect for Robin at this time, and he is clearly inspired by the new combinations of sound. Meanwhile, only Robin knows what the future holds regarding his musical direction, and the musicians he will use to bring his creative ideas to life.



Robin's set list tonight confirms he prefers to play the old songs, but in the studio he continues to record an extensive range of fresh material. During the last three years he has released three CDs: Seven Moons (2008), What Lies Beneath (2009), and The Playful Heart (2010). Of the three recordings I believe What Lies Beneath is a true "Classic". Each fan has their favorite Robin Trower albums and tracks. I would like to see Robin revolutionize his set list by including songs such as: 'Into Dust', 'Blue For Soul', 'This Old World' (great riffs & vibe), 'Living Out of Time' (a classic track), 'I Can't Wait Much Longer' and tracks from What Lies Beneath.

Robin, Richard and Chris play a rousing version of "Day of the Eagle" which flows softly into "Bridge of Sighs". At times, I close my eyes to listen to the music flowing from the stage. Whether mid-tempo, or slow, it sounds unified, fresh, spiritual, mood altering. As if time has slowed down. Richard's vocals ring out throughout the venue, and the sound of the guitar, bass and drums pulsate, weave patterns, and make that vital connection with the crowd. While I believe "The Turning" is a good song the change to a slower tempo at the coda doesn't enrich the composition. In fact, it negates the intensive flow and driving rhythm the song generates in the first place. The song still goes down well with the crowd.

 

Someone asks me tonight why Robin's music affects me the way it does? Simple words can't describe the feelings one gets when one finds music that really matters to you, whether it is recorded or live. Robin's music and guitar playing remain embedded in my mind to be accessed when needed; still touching and moving me today as much as yesterday. Long may Robin continue to compose songs and music of substance, record, tour, and reach people with his musical talent.

Robin's guitar pick & set list

There's definitely a strong case for Robin to tour the UK/Europe & US in 2012 with this line-up (other commitments permitting). They are engaging, lively, superb musicians. In conversation with fans (post concert) most agreed tonight's concert had been a revelation; that Robin and his band looked and sounded energized, driven, and give a high octane performance. In essence, the stage pulsated with talent tonight, and credit is due to Robin, Richard and Chris for their contributions.

After the concert it was a pleasure to meet "long-time" Robin Trower fan Davy Smith again; Laurie Brace (Road Manager/Sound Engineer for Robin Trower), Chris Taggart, Robin Trower's drummer, and other Trower fans whose names I unfortunately forget. The conversation was memorable as was the concert. The talents of the late Jimmy Dewar, Davey Pattison, Pete Thompson, Dave Bronze, Glenn Letsch, the late Rory Gallagher (and other musicians) brought forth fond memories of gigs in Belfast, Edinburgh and Glasgow. Also, favourite songs and albums. A wondrous night, indeed.

Robin Trower Official Site

Robin Trower Page at Amazon

Robin Trower: UK/European Tour - August/October 2011 - "The Playful Heart Tour"

Robin Trower is currently undertaking a UK & European tour during August - October 2011. Some dates and venues remain to be confirmed. It will be interesting to see the full list of venues and the songs that comprise the set list. A revamped set would be invigorating for Robin and his legion of loyal fans. It would be great to hear live: 'Into Dust', 'Blue For Soul', 'This Old World' (great riffs and vibe), Living Out Of Time (classic song).

Personally I'm glad to see Robin tour as a power rock/blues "trio" again. While Livingston Brown is not on bass guitar and vocals, I'm pleased "the duties" are undertaken by Richard Watts; another fine musician, great vocalist and bass player, who has previously collaborated and toured with Robin. The trio is completed by the exceptional, flamboyant drummer, Chris Taggart, who played on two tracks of Go My Way & on three tracks of What Lies Beneath. Catch Robin while you can; a truly amazing musician, songwriter and guitar player.

A couple of dates in Ireland would have been great. I suggest The Spring & Airbrake in Belfast and Whelan's in Dublin. Both venues have hosted Michael Schenker, Peter Green and Jan Akkerman, and the crowds have been warm and appreciative. Maybe this tour will be extended, or Robin plans to tour in 2012? There is definitely a strong case for Robin to tour the UK/Europe & the US in 2012 with this line-up.

I'm attending the Edinburgh concert on 25 September and hope to post a review.

Tour Dates

28 Aug - The Stables, Milton Keynes
29 Aug - Festival, Colne
03 Sep - Weyfest Music Festival, Tilford, Surrey 
15 Sep - Assembly Rooms, Derby
16 Sep - O2 Academy Sheffield
17 Sep - Brewery Arts Centre, Kendal
22 Sep - Band On The Wall, Manchester
23 Sep - ABC Glasgow
24 Sep - The Lemon Tree, Aberdeen
25 Sep - The Caves, Edinburgh 
05 Oct - Robin 2, Wolverhampton 
06 Oct - The Brook, Southampton
07 Oct - Cheese & Grain, Frome
08 Oct - Princess Pavilion, Falmouth (Blues in the Bay from 3.00 p.m.)
12 Oct - The Spirit of 66, Verviers, Belgium
13 Oct - Mezz, Breda, NL
14 Oct - The Boerderij, Zoetermeer, NL
15 Oct - Laki, Helmond, NL
16 Oct - Gigant, Apeldoorn, NL

  

Robin Trower Official Web Site

 Robin Trower Official YouTube Channel

Robin Trower Tour Page 

CD Review: "What Lies Beneath" - Robin Trower - Released 28 July 2009

Some musicians are excellent: some are outstanding. Robin Trower belongs to the latter category. During his long solo career Robin's feel for melody, musicality, passion, and rhythm has not deserted him. Despite decades of successful achievements - on record, and in performance - this album confirms he is still capable of searching for new and challenging musical horizons while retaining his own trademark sound.

The addition of strings, in particular, the cello, on some of the tracks give a a tonal warmth which is immediately appealing. The cello touches the heart and soul in ways other musical instruments are denied.

The qualities that make Robin's music an art which cannot be imitated - and shine throughout this recording - are its rhythmic pure sound; its warm, polyphonic textures; and, of course, Robin's mastery of the guitar: tone; chord inversions/extensions/voicings, vibrato; phrasing; melody; string bends, feedback, whammy-bar, improvisation, wah-wah, and feel.

Track Listing:

01. Wish You Were Mine (instrumental) 

A 'classic' hypnotic rhythm overlayed with Robin's warm guitar tones, feedback and whammy bar create an opening track of ethereal beauty. The interplay with strings (cello/violin) is captivating adding to the celestial mood.   The lead which kicks in at 1:37 is Robin at his finest.

02. What Lies Beneath 

The wah-wah introduction (its use throughout) and the recurring bass riff and sound give this song a solid depth and structure. After repeated listening Robin's voice suits this song, and most songs on the CD. At times, his voice sounds smoky, husky, conversational, but always impassioned, sincere.

03. As You Watch Each City Fall (part 1) 

Beautiful intro. Great melody interspersed with lyrical fill-ins. At 1:56 a new dimension is reached. The rich tapestry of sound is enhanced by the strings, and Robin's soloing and layered guitar parts. The tone of a strat never sounded better.

04. As You Watch Each City Fall (part 2) - (instrumental)

The plethora of sounds, guitar parts, bass, and drums combine to make this a instrumental a joy. Full of creativity; great arrangement. Magical.

05. Freefall 

This track sends shivers up and down my spine from start to finish. The tone of the main guitar is intense and powerful. The blend of Robin's vocals, the melody, the arrangement, bass and drums, combine to produce a classic track. Love the backing vocals ... Astounding.

06. Once The Spell Is Broken 

A song that contains a plethora of sounds including organ. The combination of a strong melody and a wonderful outro solo makes this one of the best songs on the CD. Moody and ambitious; amazing chorus.

07. Sleeping On The Moon 

Don't be fooled by the calm start to this song. Out of the calm comes a strong, passionate chorus (great harmonies). Then it goes up another gear when Robin breaks into incendiary solos at 1:36 and 2:34. Love the groove on the outro solo ...

08. Time and Emotion  (instrumental)

The organ and Robin's melodic guitar riffing and chord embellishments combine to make this a wonderful, atmospheric composition. Robin solos using all the techniques he has perfected since he started out as a professional musician. A sweet and passionate track.

09. Skin and Bone 

A track that appears to be going in one direction and takes different paths. A well-structured song with strong soloing. Great tone and Robin seems to be enjoying himself. The change at 2:10 makes for a welcome fade out were Robin is firing on all cylinders. A sound to behold, indeed.

10. Buffalo Blues  (instrumental)

The blues has played a large part in Robin's musical career and songwriting. This catchy, blues-driven instrumental - supplemented by organ - gives Robin the opportunity to play the blues as only he can. Some sweet lines and bends; seamless playing with incredible tone.

11. Find A Place

The chord voicings make this one of the best tracks on the CD. Robin's guitar parts are inspirational and melodic throughout and create a wonderful sound. A strong verse and chorus make this a great song. Robin's vocals sound completely in sync with the music. An exceptional closing track for the CD. Breathtaking outro.

Credits:

Robin Trower - Guitar & Vocals
Livingston Brown - Bass
Sam Van Essen & Chris Taggart - Drums
Roger Cotton - Organ
Andrew Haveron & Clare Hinton - Strings


Further details about What Lies Beneath at Amazon and trowerpower.com

Robin Trower - UK & European Tour - Sep/Oct 2010 - Venues and Dates