This was my fourth Robin Trower concert, and a couple of truths still hold. Fifteen years after my first, the audience remains older than me. Secondly, even on the edge of turning 80, Trower’s guitar prowess remains perfection itself.
A Uni-Vibe pedal for vibrato and chorus effects, a fondness for bass-rich notes that add depth and warmth, cranked-up Marshall amps, and his ever-present Fender Strat—all of these elements define much of his sound. While gear often plays a role in shaping a guitarist’s tone, Trower’s setup and sheer playing ability make his sound as instantly recognizable as Santana’s or Gilmour’s—a shame more people haven’t heard it. His tone and technique, combined with his soulful approach, make him a standout in the world of blues-rock guitarists.
As for his show on this particular night, the highlights included, rather obviously, the nearly nine-minute title track to Bridge of Sighs (along with three other songs from that LP, all mainstays in his set over the years), two songs from Come and Find Me, which is set to be released on April 25th, and a couple of tracks from his Jack Bruce collaborations (“It’s Too Late” and “Distant Places of the Heart”). And, of course, plenty of smiles.
Trower canceled his 2024 US tour due to surgery for unspecified health reasons, leading fans to wonder about the future of his music and touring. He has always appreciated the audience’s admiration, but on this night, you could see the sheer joy he had just playing—before, during, and after his songs.
Trower was joined by the fluid and groove-oriented Chris Taggart on drums, who clearly understands Trower’s music, elevating it without dominating the sound. On bass and vocals was Richard Watts, a frequent touring companion. His voice fits Trower’s tone perfectly, though he isn’t asked to provide the kind of counterpoint that James Dewar’s vocals added to Trower’s 1970s sound. It would have been great to hear Trower take the lead on a song, as he has on many of his albums over the last decade. A tour with Sari Schorr, whose powerful presence helped 2023’s Joyful Sky smolder, would also be an exciting prospect.
Trower was characteristically minimalist in audience engagement (variations of “Thank you”), but at the end of the main set, he offered a simple, heartfelt message: “Thank you for coming. We hope to see you again sometime.” The man loves creating music and playing it live, and it’s great that this was by no means a farewell tour.
One lingering question: why does almost every other guitarist have to re-tune their guitar during a set? Despite all his bends and vibratos, Trower’s Strat holds its tune effortlessly.
Setlist:
Encore:
9 Responses
I was at this show. Was absolutely blown into the back wall. Amazing guitar player and im so glad i got to see him live
I agree! It was amazing and we too are counting ourselves fortunate to have been there.
Saw him at The Channel in Boston around ’89, and in Vegas, 5-6(?) years ago. A stellar performer.
We’re not worthy we’re not worthy we’re not worthy!!!!!
Robin’s Strat does stay in tune very well. I was at the Atlanta show and he did touch up his tuning once or twice. He floats his tremolo so it does return to pitch easier. He has locking tuners that help too, and he doesn’t do extreme dive bombs but rather gently shakes the bar.
Why no Manchester (England) gigs?
Happy 80th birthday, Robin!
You are loved in St Paul, Minnesota.
Please return soon!
Daydream is from 1973 “Twice Removed from Yesterday” LP and has been a killer live track for ages. Seeing him in July and feel honored to get the chance once again. Respect the Elders.
ROBIN IS THE REAL DEAL ! I FIRST HEARD ROBIN IN THE EARLY 80’S ,I WAS WORKING ON MY BIKE,AND STOPPED TO LISTEN TO THE RADIO. IT WAS ROBIN ! I HAD NO IDEA @ THAT MOMENT BUT IT SURE GOT MY ATTENTION ! ! I’VE SEEN HIM 4-5 TIMES AND WAS SERIOUSLY IMPRESSED EVERY TIME. HE IS AMAZING,HIS HEART IS IN IT AND YOU CAN FEEL IT BIG TIME !