Concert Review: Robin Trower - Komedia, Bath - 22/9/10

I've attended good concerts and great concerts. Myself and my wife, and others whom we meet afterwards, agree we have witnessed an outstanding one. A compelling performance from beginning to end; a terrific triumph for Robin, Pete, Davey and Glenn (who astound with their energy, passion and musicianship) and for the audience an emotional, unbeatable, roller coaster ride.

I glance at Robin's set list and believe it is one of the strongest Robin has put together for recent tours in the UK. The strong riffs and rhythm of "Confessin' Midnight" followed by "Lady Love" will enable Robin to solo with a degree of aggression and passion right from the start and for the band to hit a tight rhythmic groove early in the show. I'm pleased a deep favourite of mine "Daydream" is included in the set. The first time on this tour. The gods have fortuitously shone down on me once again. Somehow I feel this is the right place, one of the right gigs to be at.

As the number of people flocking into the auditorium grows there is an increasing air of excitement and anticipation, and the slight electricity of whispering that occurs before such events. When Robin and his band appear on stage the audience give them a warm boisterous welcome.

"Confessin' Midnight" sounds razor sharp. The band come together and the song goes off like a flashbulb. Robin's guitar tone sounds amazing, especially when he hits the wah-wah pedal. Davey's vocals are superb and distinct tonight. In fact, his singing is a revelation and he wins many plaudits. Robin's soloing bites, twists and turns, and is pleasantly aggressive. A problem with a monitor is soon fixed by Laurie at the end of the song. Without losing ground the band launch into "Lady Love" which keeps the crowd energized. It says something about Robin's unique guitar style that songs from early in his career still retain a freshness and vitality on each hearing. Pete on drums and Glenn on bass combine to provide a sweeping, smoldering, strong rhythm which delights and catches hold of your spirit at the same time.  

The hypnotic, funky rhythm of "Somebody Calling" is particularly noteworthy powered by Robin's lead guitar work. Combined with Davey's vocals and enthusiastic backing by Pete and Glenn this song sounds better live than I expected. Robin's vibrato is used to killer effect alongside beautiful rhythmic chording and chord changes.

It's obvious that Robin loves to continually write and record new music. The inclusion of three "new" songs in the 14 song set, "Find Me," "The Turning," and " Not Inside - Outside" are well received by the audience. "Find Me" really kicks in when Davey sings in sync with Robin's guitar. During the song Robin plays beautiful understated solos which rise to a crescendo. This should be an interesting composition to listen to on Robin's forthcoming CD regarding the guitar parts and overdubs.

"Extermination Blues" has been dropped from tonight's show; a slow song which I believe can lose an audience no matter how great the guitar playing may be. I'm pleased it's been replaced by the classic "Daydream." Tonight "Daydream" is haunting and unforgettable due to Davey's outstanding vocal and Robin's graceful guitar playing and lush sound. The bass and drums sound just right and combine to make this one of the highlights of the show.

Robin's mastery of the guitar is highlighted to great affect on "Bridge of Sighs". He improvises with great feeling; moving from soulful tenderness to moving aggression. I'm glad this version was captured on film. Another new song, "The Turning" sounds excellent. The main riff, chord sequencing, rhythm - and the slow coda - make this a finely-crafted composition. The haunting beat from the outset creates an intoxicating sound. A truly memorable riff weaves its way through the song and make it impossible to remain still until the coda. A coda which is soft, beautiful, and gets large cheers from the audience.

Pete in full flow

Robin's Set List

The people I spoke to post-concert agreed this was one of the finest performances by Robin, Davey, Pete and Glenn they had witnessed. A great set list enabled Robin to ply his exceptional monster bends, licks, and classic vibrato with incredible energy for the whole concert. At 65, Robin deserves high praise for continuing to create music and play guitar at a level second to no other living guitarist.

Davey's singing was top notch and the sound mix was great for the audience. Pete's heart, soul and finesse shone in his drumming and Glenn's funky bass lines were a revelation. A truly superb performance by Robin and the band which produced many great musical moments to cherish. "Daydream" was the icing on the cake.

Postscript: The venue was great and all the staff were friendly and supportive. This helped to make the concert superb and unforgettable.

Davy Smith, Alan Howard, Ronnie Kerrigan (post concert)

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Robin Trower Official Youtube Channel 

Robin Trower at: Amazon

Concert Review: Robin Trower & Jack Bruce - The Music Hall, Worpswede, Germany - 1 March 2009

The venue for the concert is 25km north of Bremen. The village of Worpswede is intimate, quite and beautiful. As my brother and I walk towards the The Music Hall I am intrigued that such a  music venue exists so far from noisy, densely populated towns and cities. It is 5.30pm and the band are going through a sound check. The songs are "Seven Moons" and "Lives of Clay" and sound great. At the rear entrance to the hall there are a number of vans with cables running from the stage area. The performance is being recorded for broadcast on Radio Bremen.

I meet a music journalist from Hamburg and we talk about the broadcast and the venue. My brother and I talk to a number of people from different parts of Germany and Sweden who are big Jack Bruce fans. It's good to see Laurie Brace (Road Manager/Sound Engineer for Robin Trower) and Steve Russell (responsible for Jack Bruce's instruments and amplification). We talk about tonight's gig, the previous night's performance in Nijmegen, Holland and exchange a few pleasantries and jokes. Two great guys kept busy making sure all the musical equipment is working, in the right place and ready for the musicians to perform. Also, ensuring that the sound balance is as close to perfection as possible given the restraints of the venue.

Steve Russell, Ronnie, and Laurie Brace

The program and posters outside and inside the venue intrigue me. The only musician displayed is Jack Bruce. It appears Jack is the main act and Robin and Gary are supporting musicians. I understand this is the way the music industry sometimes works. Two formidable musicians collaborate on three albums, organize a short tour in Europe, and only one musician is given recognition and billing. When I discovered the set list included the entire Seven Moons album I tried to curtail judgment, but couldn't. The album has a number of great songs, but also has its share of average, unmelodic tracks.

I notice Robin's Deja Vibe is absent from his pedals. This rules out the possibility of the trio inserting other songs in the set to provide contrast: up-tempo, funkier rhythms; the chance to hear Jack playing bass and singing on "Bridge of Sighs" or "Day of the Eagle."  A view shared by numerous Robin Trower devotees and musicians at the front of the stage. Indeed, the absence of songs from earlier collaborations - BLT & Truce - is a major talking point before, during and after the concert with fans. Tracks such as: "Into Money," "No Island Lost," "Won't Let You Down," "Gonna Shut You Down," "Gone Too Far," "Fall In Love," "Little Boy Lost" would have enhanced the set and experience.

Frankly, I despair of CD/DVD/concert reviews which make you wonder if the person was at the concert. or has listened to the music on disc. Some reviews on the internet, and in magazines appear to be “cut & pasted” and follow a familiar pattern with comparisons of Robin to ... well, you know who. A review bereft of originality and sincerity does a disservice to any impassioned and skilled musical artist. 

The show started around 9:00 pm to a hall packed with eager fans. At the outset Robin's guitar sound seems low in the mix. This fails, however, to make "Seven Moons" or "Lives of Clay" any less engaging. Two powerful tracks back to back. Robin's soloing is a revelation. In fact, it is noticeable that Robin and Jack are enjoying playing together.

The sound is uncluttered and Robin's guitar sound becomes more visible during the pedestrian "Distant Places Of The Heart". During the song Robin uses his considerable vibrato and guitar voicings to great effect. A wonderful, creative journey. A masterclass in sensitive, passionate soloing. The outro solo is stunning. Jack Bruce at the finish of the song says, “Life isn't so bad after all ...”  I believe, for the moment, he's right.

Tonight Robin's Strat is plugged into a 100-watt custom built Cornell amp. I prefer his guitar tone when he uses Marshall. In fact, towards the end of the set Robin's guitar sound appears to oscillate in volume; a combination of amp and faulty connections, perhaps.

After a passionate and enthusiastic version of “Sunshine of Your Love” the tempo slows for a rendition of “Carmen.” The live version misses the guitar overdubs and outstanding vocal Jack produced on the original recording. Not an easy song to sing, whatever your age, or state of health.

At some point I begin to feel Gary Husband is prone to over-drum - a la Buddy Miles - and the sensitivity of some songs, while still moving, are executed with undue rigidity.

Following “We're Going Wrong,” “So Far To Yesterday,” “ Just Another Day” the infectious rhythm of “Perfect Place” enables Robin to use the wah pedal to create haunting, biting, riffs that make the song seem too short. During the song the trio create a wondrous groove which the audience share with vocal enthusiasm.

I'm grateful that supreme musicians such as Robin Trower and Jack Bruce still grace this planet, share their music, their gift, and voice wherever, and whenever, possible. Both musicians have enriched my life and those of numerous others. I hope they tour together again without constraints and a different set list. I acknowledge they call the shots. Me? I'm someone who enjoys music played "live" with passion, vigor and creativity. So who am I to talk? I knew you would understand.

Link to photographs of the performance on 'The Music Hall' site: Photos + Videos

The concert was recorded and broadcast by Radio Bremen. Click on the following link for the whole concert: Robin Trower & Jack Bruce 

Set list signed by Robin Trower and Jack Bruce

trowerpower.com

Robin Trower Interview - Cornell

JackBruce.com

CD Review: Robin Trower - A Tale Untold: the Chrysalis Years 1973-1976 [3 CD Box set] - Release Date: July 26, 2010

A 3 CD Box Set containing Robin's five Chrysalis albums released between 1973 -1976 [including bonus tracks: B-sides; previously unreleased tracks] was released on 26 July 2010.

Robin Trower fans will have most of the tracks on vinyl, CD and MP3. However, the collection is a valuable insight into the songwriting, music and superb guitar playing of Robin Trower. The recordings highlight the exceptional vocals of James Dewar which were important in the creation of so many musical  masterpieces. Jimmy's ability to compose strong lyrics, and his musical bass playing, are on clear display. 

The drumming styles and techniques of the late Reg Isadore and Bill Lordan smoothly integrate into the song structures and provide a hypnotic rhythmic feel which make the songs timeless and unforgettable.

The essential message is that the songs on this selection capture a musician and guitar player at the top of his game creating music which is compulsive listening from start to finish. Each track sounds remarkably fresh rather than jaded. Few artists or bands - past, or present - deserve this accolade.

I am still taken aback by the soulful vocals of James Dewar. They have a deep spiritual dimension which take hold of the listener the way sunlight takes hold of each flower, each tree, all things on this earth: life enhancing and breathtaking.

The end result is music of high quality, lyrical, other-worldly, passionate, and memorable. Each melody, guitar solo, lyric, remains woven in my memory, and provides a river I can bathe in, as I wish.

Rock and blues at its finest.

CD 1
  1. I Can’t Wait Much Longer (2010 Digital Remaster)
  2. Daydream (2010 Digital Remaster)
  3. Hannah (2010 Digital Remaster)
  4. Man Of The World (2010 Digital Remaster)
  5. I Can’t Stand It (2010 Digital Remaster)
  6. Rock Me Baby (2010 Digital Remaster)
  7. Twice Removed From Yesterday (2010 Digital Remaster)
  8. Sinner’s Song (2010 Digital Remaster)
  9. Ballerina (2010 Digital Remaster)
10. Take A Fast Train (B-side of ‘Man Of The World’) (2010 Digital Remaster)
11. Day Of The Eagle (2007 Digital Remaster)
12. Bridge Of Sighs (2007 Digital Remaster)
13. In This Place (2007 Digital Remaster)
14. The Fool And Me (2007 Digital Remaster)

CD 2
  1. Too Rolling Stoned (2007 Digital Remaster)
  2. About To Begin (2007 Digital Remaster)
  3. Lady Love (2007 Digital Remaster)
  4. Little Bit Of Sympathy (2010 Digital Remaster)
  5. Day Of The Eagle (Single Edit) (2010 Digital Remaster)
  6. Shame The Devil (2010 Digital Remaster)
  7. It’s Only Money (2010 Digital Remaster)
  8. Confessin’ Midnight (2010 Digital Remaster)
  9. Fine Day (2010 Digital Remaster)
10. Alethea (2010 Digital Remaster)
11. A Tale Untold (2010 Digital Remaster)
12. Gonna Be More Suspicious (2010 Digital Remaster)
13. For Earth Below (2010 Digital Remaster)
14. Too Rolling Stoned (Live) (2010 Digital Remaster)
15. Daydream (Live) (2010 Digital Remaster)
16. Rock Me Baby (Live) (2010 Digital Remaster)

CD 3
  1. Lady Love (Live) (2010 Digital Remaster)
  2. I Can’t Wait Much Longer (Live) (2010 Digital Remaster)
  3. Alethea (Live) (2010 Digital Remaster)
  4. Little Bit Of Sympathy (Live) (2010 Digital Remaster)
  5. Same Rain Falls (2010 Digital Remaster)
  6. Long Misty Days (2010 Digital Remaster)
  7. Hold Me (2010 Digital Remaster)
  8. Caledonia (2010 Digital Remaster)
  9. Pride (2010 Digital Remaster)
10. Sailing (2010 Digital Remaster)
11. S.M.O. (2010 Digital Remaster)
12. I Can’t Live Without You (2010 Digital Remaster)
13. Messin’ The Blues (2010 Digital Remaster)
14. Long Misty Days (7″ Edit) (2010 Digital Remaster)
15. Let Me Be The One (Outtake/B-side to ‘Long Misty Days’) (2010 Digital Remaster)

I'm pleased this is not an anthology. A Tale Untold mirrors the extraordinary gift Robin Trower has to produce music that is magical, exhilarating and which is capable of raising the human spirit on each hearing. For that, I remain thankful.

Track samples and order available at: Amazon

Link to articles about Robin on Your Way To Music: Robin Trower

http://www.trowerpower.com/

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

Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame 25th Anniversary Shows - 29/30 October 2009 - New York City: Jeff Beck & Billy Gibbons play "Foxy Lady" as a tribute to Jimi Hendrix

It was great to see Jeff Beck and Billy Gibbons performing "Foxy Lady" by Jimi Hendrix on the second night of this event with images of Jimi emblazoned on a large screen above the stage. Jeff and Billy both play solos, each sounding fantastic, highlighting their own guitar style, tone and licks. Jeff preformed a second song with Billy Gibbons: "Rough Boy" - (some of the finest soloing and guitar tone recorded - Eliminator, 1983) - beautiful song and solos (available on YouTube - embedded by request).

Jeff's set list included: "Drown in My Own Tears", "People Get Ready", "Freeway Boogie", "Cause We've Ended as Lovers", "Let Me Love You", "Big Block", "Rice Pudding", and "A Day in the Life".

On the first night Jeff Beck accompanied Stevie Wonder on "Superstition".