Record Reviews

ROBIN TROWER ~ THE COMPLETE ATLANTIC RECORDINGS WOUNDED BIRD 6033 (Barcode: 664140603325) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock Recorded: 1988 - 1990 Released: 2020 This is a 2CD reissue of the 11th and 12th solo studio albums by the legendary British Rock guitarist / songwriter Robin TrowerFind albums by this artist, released on AtlanticFind albums on this label Records in 1988 and 1990 respectively. CD1 is the album “Take What You NeedFind albums with this title”, which was recorded in a quartet setting with vocalist Davey PattisonFind albums by this artist, bassist Dave BronzeFind albums by this artist and drummer Pete ThompsonFind albums by this artist. It presents nine tracks, all written by Trower or co-written with Bronze. This edition adds one bonus track, which is a live version of one of the original album tracks. CD2 is the album “In The Line Of FireFind albums with this title”, which was recorded in a quintet setting with vocalist Davey Pattison, keyboardist Bobby MayoFind albums by this artist, bassist John ReaganFind albums by this artist and drummer Tony BeardFind albums by this artist. It presents eleven tracks, most written or co-written by Trower, with two originating from other sources. Two tracks feature lyrics by Keith ReidFind albums by this artist, Trower’s Procol HarumFind albums by this artist cohort. Following his departure from the iconic Procol Harum, Trower pursues a solo career since 1973, with dozens of albums to his credit. He manages miraculously to stick to his own formula of creative Blues-Rock, which he follows in the sixth decade of his career. His guitar playing is still sharp and clear-cut and his vocals are still as powerful as always, and he does not need to reinvent himself or search for any new avenues, doing what he does best. His many fans love his music, and that’s what matters the most. There are very few Rock personalities of his statue and legacy still standing today and every new album he releases is an unmistakable blast, on which he definitely takes, as usual, no prisoners. Overall, these are excellent Blues-Rock albums, with beautifully melodic tunes, solid vocals and sensational guitar playing, which has but a few contenders. The reissue is a most welcomed opportunity to grab a copy of the them. Trower’s many followers need no encouragement of course and some of the self-proclaimed new guitar aces would be wise to take a listen. Brilliant stuff!

Updated: 09/12/2023Posted: 20/10/2023

CD 2 Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend