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Robin Trower's 1999 Tour - Fan's Concert Reviews
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1999 Tour Robin Trower Concert Reviews
1. February 26, 1999 The Crossroads Bar and Grill, Yucaipa, California:
Review by: David T.
After a long wait, Robin took the stage at 11:00p.m. and the place erupted. made my move to the stage as Robin began the familiar licks to "Too Rolling Stoned" (Of course). I finessed my way up to about six people from center stage. Robin, as expected, looked a little older and looked very thin however he was as vibrant and energetic as I've ever seen him. The band is the same power trio lineup that has played with him for the past several years with Livingston Brown on bass/vocals and Alvino Bennett on drums. The biggest surprise for me was how well his band played in support of his music. They were a very tight unit and a perfect compliment for the type of music that Robin is making these days. Livingston Brown was very active on stage and had a great rapport with Robin and the audience. You could tell that Livingston was very into Robin's playing and they were feeding off of each others energy.
Robins playing has only gotten better. There is absolutely no signs of slowing down. His playing was inspirational and each solo was like a new adventure. Robin continues to show his unique ability to intermix different styles (rock, blues etc.) with contrasting sounds and volume.
His set was 85 minutes long and was very similiar in content to the 1997 and 1998 tours. I did the best I could to remember the name and order each song as shown below:
1. Too Rolling Stoned
2. Rise Up Like the Sun
3. No Time
4. I Want You To Love Me
5. Prisoner of Love
6. Secret Place
7. Blue for Soul (New material)
8. Day of the Eagle
9. Bridge of Sighs
10. 20th Century Blues
11. Sweet Little Angel (BB King Song)
12 Little Bit of Sympathy
Encore:
13. Crossroads
14. Extermination Blues
This was the first show of the tour and you could tell Robin was very excited and enjoying himself. He did seem although to be a little overwhelmed by the loud response and adulation of the crowd.
This was the 13th time I have seen him perform over a span of 25 years and am still amazed at the passion and enjoyment he puts into his live show. The only disappointment I could say was that he still does not play any material from the middle years. I think that a couple of selections from the "Victims of the Fury" album would fit nicely into his set. Oh well, maybe next time. It was still one for the memories.
Dave T.
PS: Robin Trower 1999 tour tee-shirts are $20.00 each. They are also
selling B/W glossy photos of Trower live shots (prior concerts) for $2.00
each. Of course, I got both the tee-shirt and the photos. They were well
worth it.
2. February 27, 1999 The Ventura Theatre, Ventura, California
No Review yet.
3. March 03, 1999 The Coach House, San Juan Capistrano, California
Review by Gary Larson
"The guest band opening for Robin (high point of their career) was Sinster Grin, a metal band with a female singer, their act started a little after 8PM. Noisy Metallica/Rush type bar band, not blues based like Trower and no competition at all.
Robin Trower took to the stage at 9:30PM. Robin was wearing a grey pinstriped suit with a metallic grey shirt. Robin took off the jacket after the second song. Livingstone Brown was wearing black leather Shirt, pants, and jacket.
The band featured: Robin Trower - Guitar/Vocals, Livingstone Brown - Bass/Vocals, Alvino Bennett - Drums
The song list for 3-3-1999 was as follows:
1. 09:31 Too Rolling Stoned, Originally from the Bridge of Sighs album Guitar - Blue Fender Strat, Vocals - Livingstone Brown
2. 09:42 Rise Up Like The Sun, Originally from the 20th Century Blues album Guitar - Blue Fender Strat, Vocals - Livingstone Brown
3. 09:45 No Time Originally from the Passion album with Davy Patterson on studio vocals. Guitar - Blue Fender Strat, Vocals - Livingstone Brown
4. 0951 I Want You To Love Me, Originally from the Someday Blues album Guitar - Blue Fender Strat, Vocals - Robin Trower
5. 09:58 Prisoner Of Love, Originally from the 20th Century Blues album Guitar - Blue Fender Strat, Vocals - Livingstone Brown
* 10:01 - Technical problem with Robin's guitar/cable/effects
6. 10:04 Secret Place, Originally from the 20th Century Blues album Guitar - Blue Fender Strat, Vocals - None
7. 10:11 Blue For Soul (NEW SONG for 1999), Robin said "... just recorded this for release later this year ..." Good rock song, Guitar - Blue Fender Strat, Vocals - Robin Trower
* 10:17 - Technical problem with Robin's guitar/cable/effects
8. 10:20 Day Of The Eagle, Originally from the Bridge of Sighs album ,Guitar - Blue Fender Strat, Vocals - Livingstone Brown
9. 10:23 Bridge Of Sighs, Originally from the Bridge of Sighs album, Guitar - Blue Fender Strat, Vocals - Livingstone Brown
10. 10:38 20th Century Blues, Originally from the 20th Century Blues album, Guitar - Blue Fender Strat, Vocals - Livingstone Brown
* 10:41 Band Intro
11. 10:42 Sweet Little Angel, Originally from the Someday Blues album, Guitar - Blue Fender Strat, Vocals - Robin Trower
12. 10:47 to 10:52 Little Bit Of Sympathy, Originally from the Bridge of Sighs album, Guitar - Blue Fender Strat, Vocals - Livingstone Brown
Encore
13. 10:54 Crossroads, Originally from the Someday Blues album, Guitar - Blue Fender Strat, Vocals - Robin Trower
14. 10:58 Extermination Blues, Originally from the 20th Century Blues album, 2nd Alternate blues take from the Someday Blues album with Robin on vocals, Guitar - Blue Fender Strat, Vocals - Robin Trower
The songs Promise You The Stars and Next In Line were replaced this year by No Time and the new song Blue for Soul.
Robin Trower looks kind of old and frail when he comes on stage, but he plays guitar as good now as he ever has in the past. His new song Blue for Soul sounds like a return to the Bridge of Sighs / 20th Century Blues style of blues/rock that fans love. It was great to hear No Time live with Livingstone's vocals and Robin's more agressive playing than the polished produced studio version.
My doctor was there to see Robin Trower for the first time since 1976. After the show he said "He's seems... so... old... but he plays with so much... soul, the notes..., he makes me want to play guitar again."
The new Cd Robin Trower This Was Now '74~'98 2nd Cd is very close to the 1999 tour performance. If you want to the songs again, or compare between 1974 and 1998 Trower concerts this Cd is essential.
For sale in the lobby was the new Cd Robin Trower This Was Now '74~'98 and Someday Blues along with several different T-shirts, sweatshirts, and posters.
Robin Trower's equipment for the 1999 tour was:
Six Fender Strat Custom Shop Guitars. He used only two of the strats, one blue and one tobacco sunburst strat(alternate tuning? used for the instrumental Secret Place).(a,b,c)
1 Vox Wah
1 Fulltone (stereo)Deja Vibe
2 Fender Amps (Hot Rod Devilles)
1 Marshall Amp (Marshall JCM 800 Lead Series amp head)
3 tweed external 4x12 Marshall speaker cabs (slanted half stacks)
Livingstone Brown's equipment was:
Fender P-Bass
Rack Amp and equalizer
Ampeg Bass speaker cab
Marshall speaker cab
Alvino Bennett's equipment was:
Grestch drums "See Robin Trower 1999 Concert Tour Info web page for more from this concert.
4. March 4, 1999 Belly Up Tavern, Solana Beach, California
Review by Jack
"After checking in at the hotel, I walked to the Belly Up Tavern and went in to have a beer. It was about 1pm and Trower's crew was doing their initial set up and briefing. What a fantastic place to see any band, the club has some of the best acoustics I have ever heard. The phone was ringing non stop with people inquiring about tickets to see Trower, but the show was sold out.
Doors opened at 6:30pm so I returned to the hotel and I had plans to be back around 6pm. When I arrived there were a couple of people already in line so I began the wait. I was about the sixth one through the door at opening, by then there were about 40 people waiting on the doors to open. I was able to get a table with 4 stools up front, but it turned out to be a bad place after the club filled up. Tables, stools it did not matter at show time because everyone was standing and it was impossible to keep your seat. Sorry I can't give you an exact play list, I met too many "great" Trower fans and when they found out I was from Atlanta they all wanted to buy me a Pacifico beer. I guess they thought my throat must have been a little dusty from all that travel. Dave's song list from his earlier post was pretty much complete, but Trower's third song was "No Time" from his 1987 album "Passion." It was good to hear something from that album.
His opening song was "Too Rolling Stoned" and was the best I have heard from him not counting the Dewar days. Robin looked good and had a lot of energy, he looked like he was enjoying himself through out the show. It sounded like he may have had some mixing problems on one of his last songs, but after the show I heard someone say he broke a string during the song. He played a new song form the album he is working on and it sounded real good. I can't wait for that album to be released, I don't think any Trower fan will be disappointed. If you get a chance to see him play, don't pass it by. I am one of Robin Trower's biggest fans and he still has what it takes.
The biggest complaint that I hear is from people that don't realize that Dewar is not with Trower any more. They are a little disappointed when they don't hear that familiar voice. Livingston Brown does an excellent job, but let's face it, he is not Jimmy Dewar. Unfortunately, that will never change. Obviously, you must look at Trower's band with an open mind. I really enjoyed seeing him and talking to all the nice people at the Belly Up Tavern. I am looking forward to more reviews and stories as the tour moves on!"
5. March 05, 1999 The Galaxy Theatre, Santa Ana, California
No Review yet
6. March 06, 1999 Hard Rock Hotel - The Joint , Las Vegas, California
Review by DURAN286
"I caught Robin's show at The Joint in Las Vegas and I'm sad to say that I was very disappointed in the show. After seeing four great shows from Robin in '98, I was really looking forward to seeing him during the '99 tour..... But I left very disappointed. His playing was well below par. Did anyone else see this show? I would be interested in their opinion. I read earlier reviews of the '99 Shows saying that Robin's playing was better than the '98 tour. I did not find this to be the case. I'm now left trying to decide whether or not to spend the money to see Robin in Chicago and Columbus. Has anyone been to the venue in Columbus? Robin put on two great shows in Chicago last year but a weekend in Chicago can be expensive. The show I saw in Vegas was not worth that kind of expense. Please keep the show reviews coming and I just hope I caught Robin on a bad night."
7. March 07, 1999 House Of Blues, West Hollywood, California
No Review yet
8. March 09, 1999 The Catalyst Nightclub , Santa Cruz, California
No Review yet
9. March 10, 1999 Maritime Hall, San Francisco, California
Review by Dave J.
"Trower's set (tonight, 3/10 at the Maritime hall in S.F.) was the exactly the same as the set on the 3rd at the Coach House. Robin played the sea foam green Strat on all tunes except "Secret Place" where he used the Custom shop sunburst '62 reissue (this one has a rosewood fretboard). "
10. March 12, 1999 The Roseland Theater, Portland, Oregon
No Review yet
11. March 13, 1999 Ballard Firehouse, Seattle, Washington
Review by Colin
... I went to Trower's show in Seattle on March 13 (Ballard, to be exact), and thoroughly enjoyed it! I even got an autograph from Robin, who nicely signed my "This Was Now" CD cover.
Keep on rockin',
Colin
12. March 14, 1999 Ballard Firehouse, Seattle, Washington
Review by Bob Rood
I will start this by saying that the energy from this show has still got me as hyped as the night I was there. I got to the FireHouse at about 6:30pm, I think the doors opened around 7:30 or so. The opening band probably took the stage at about 8:30, Robin probably came out at approximately 9:30. We were not expecting him until about 11:00, it was a great surprise! :)
I am not much of a writer when it comes to reviews, but I will at least try. :) As everyone probably already knows, I was right in front of the stage when Robin walked out and the chills just consumed my body as he picked up his strat and we all know what the opening song was. :)
I do remember some or all of the setlist. :)
To Rolling Stoned
Rise Up
I Want You To Love Me
Prisoner
Secret Place
Blue For Soul
Eagle
Bridge Of Sighs (I thought the audience was gonna riot in joy)
20th Century Blues
Sweet Little Angel (I think)
A Little Bit Of Sympathy
He did 2 encores. The crowd was like a large family all hoping the show would never end. Robin was right on, and he liked the crowd, he was full of smiles and just kept thanking everyone at the end of each show. He really looked in good health and did not miss a note. As an earlier review stated, he was doing autographs while sitting in his car after the show. :)
Sorry for such a short review, but I think it speaks for its self. I have never been as close to the stage as I was on Sunday, and this really makes this show special to me. If anybody on this list was there, I was the guy dancing around right in front of Robin with the BP hat on. :) I am so pleased that if I could afford it, I would follow him around to every city he is touring.
Bob Rood
13. March 15, 1999 Mill Camp Saloon, Springfield, Oregon
No Review yet
14. March 17, 1999 Boardwalk, Orangevale, California
Review # 1 by Ron Braun
"Saw a VERY Excellent show in Orangevale (Sacramento suburb) last night (St. Pat's Day) at a club called The Boardwalk. Two local bands opened, beginning around 7:45pm, 1st with OIL KAN, a young 3-piece band, hard edgy rock with blues undercurrent, particularly when they covered Hendrix' "Hey Joe"...very cool vocals by the bass when he could be heard, seemed as if there was some difficulty by the mixer in bringing up his vocals coming out of choruses/solos. Talented guitarist, but a bit too many scales/finger-fretting licks/tricks thrown in for style. 2nd band was a huge step forward, entitled CRYING BLUE RAIN hitting the stage around 9:30pm, another 3-piece with guitar & vocals handled by Corky Newman, a large man reminiscent of John Popper of Blues Traveller in his suit jacket and black hat made his guitar seem small, but man, could he play some chords! Other band members, according to their latest CD "Second Hand Blues" are Bill McCloskey, the bass player who's an older guy with blond hair playing a brown/ "sunburst" base, and John Weaver on drums.Although I couldn't tell during the 1st song (it sounded great! well-balanced vocals over heavy bass), Newman apparently had a monitor problem, said he had no monitors...the mixers at the back quickly rectified that for the rest of the set. Highlights of their set included Stone Cold in Blue, Heart And Soul (a dissonant jazz-style chord/riff driven tune, with a cool break/pause/"breath" right before the title line in the chorus), Stay On The Road ( or maybe it was called Steel Rail?). The guitar solo on Love's Got Ahold of Me was killer! This guy is fast, bluesy and powerful (as are his vocals), and the bass & drum never overpower him even in their fullness. The band had a "guest" harmonica player (black cowboy hat, bushy black curly hair and a black vest), who could wail but was a little hard to hear a lot of the time. The band was much louder during this song and the mix suffered quite a bit due to the increase. They followed it up with a rocking version of Jeff Beck's Going Down, trading some harmonica riffs with guitar riffs until Corky started really wailing and leaving the harp behind. The band supporters manning the mailing list sign-up and selling CRB CD's said the harmonica player had jammed with the band many times and was going to be featured on the upcoming CD...A couple more Jeff Beck tunes followed, instrumental, and a great cover of an old Fleetwood Mac (Peter Green) tune (can't remember the title, though "..Don't ask me what I think of you, I might not give the answer that you want me to...") The crowd really began getting in to this band, and even batted around a giant inflatible Miller Lite Shamrock through part of the set.
After a break for the set change around 10:40pm, the lights dimmed for ROBIN TROWER who hit the stage around 11:00. As the reviewer of the 3-3-99 San Juan Capistrano reviewer noted, Robin looked very old & frail, thinning gray hair, his guitar playing, and Vocals (!), were definitely not, were in fact VERY powerful and intense...Robin was wearing black slacks & a long black jacket over a dark gray mettalic or satin shirt by the 3rd song had lost the jacket. The incredible bass and vocals was provided by Livingston Brown, who was wearing a charcoal-colored shirt with silver zippers on the pockets, black leather pants, a black jacket with a matching black leather hat on backwards, and dark sunglasses. Livingston's vocals were seamless, and searing...smooth as hot butter. And his growling bass perfectly accentuated Robin's brooding, aggressive playing. Liv (as he signed his autograph later) had 2 bass amps, one Marshall with 2 large speakers and one larger unit with 8 smaller speakers (Ampeg according to angelfire.com's website), and he played the same bass throughout the show a white on blonde Fender P-bass(?). He had a 2nd bass on the stand behind the band but never changed bass. He obviously relished playing behind Robin's masterful leads. I couldn't make out the drummer from my vantage point off stage right until later in the show his name is Alvino Bennett, a very gracious and approachable man as I found out later upon meeting him after the show. His set initially appeared small, with a smaller Gretsch bass drum, 3 black toms & a floor tom (& maybe a roto at the far right end past the floor tom?), a large sand/gold-colored snare Alvino told me was 8" but seemed very deep/tall, 5 large gold paiste cymbals (prominently displayed high in the center one very smooth, with red PAISTE lettering and one with white PAISTE lettering and lots of "dents"). Alvino had two very, very small cymbals right in the center of his set, below the high, raised Paiste's, that were very unusual looking, both were doubles with a very small one under an even smaller cymbal...he also had a windchime hidden behind the snare (towards the front of the stage).
Robin's guitar stand had 6 guitars on it, all appeared to be Fender Strats from my poor vantage point, but played a white on blonde Fender Strat (?) for most of the set, changing to a aqua-blue Fender for only one song, Secret Place off the "20th Century Blues" CD. Robin's amps appeared to be the same as those mentioned in the angelfire.com website, 3 "tweed external" 4x12 Marshall speaker cab's, one Marshall amp head, and 2 Fender amps (Hot Rod Devilles?) on top of the Marshall's.
The set list was identical to the 3-3-99 San Juan Capistrano show detailed on the angelfire.com website (Thanks immensely to those folks can be reached at www.angelfire.com/ca/RobinTrower/RT99tour.html the "unofficial" website for the band):
11:00pm - Too Rolling Stoned (from "Bridge of Sighs" album) vocals by Livingston
- Rise Up Like The Sun (from "20th Century Blues") vocals by Livingston
- No Time (from "Passion" album) vocals by Livingston
Robin has taken off jacket...
11:15 - I Want You To Love Me (from "Someday Blues") vocals by Robin!
Cool reverb vocal effect right before solo
11:21 - Prisoner of Love (from "20th Century Blues") vocals by Livingston
11:25 - Secret Place (from "20th Century Blues") Instrumental
Robin switched to an aqua-blue Fender Strat...
- Blue For Soul (a NEW 1999 song!) vocals by Robin
"...Just recorded...we hope it'll be out by the end of the year." (R.T.) =
A jammin' tune with Heavy bass, Clapton-like vocals
11:38 - Day of The Eagle (from "Bridge of Sighs") vocals by Livingston Straight into next song w/ no break...
11:44 - Bridge of Sighs (from "Bridge of Sighs") vocals by Livingston
11:55 - 20th Century Blues (from "20th Century Blues") vocals by Livingston
11:58 - Sweet Little Angel (from "Someday Blues") vocals by Robin
"This song is for all the ladies out there..." (R.T.) Livingston has taken off sunglasses, hat & jacket
12:05 - Little Bit of Sympathy (from "Bridge of Sighs") vocals by Livingston
cool guitar effect, short, "blended sound" riffs/bursts, short mean drum solo going into chorus
(little bit of technical problem/feedback after 1st verse quickly fixed though)
BAND TAKES A BREAK....
ENCORE:
12:12 - Crossroads (from "Someday Blues") vocals by Robin
12:15 - Extermination Blues (from "20th Century Blues" & alt. 1st verse by Robin, version on "Someday Blues) 2nd by Livingston
12:24 BAND TAKES FINAL BOWS, EXITS STAGE LEFT to Green Room...
Several shirts & hats were being sold at the back, along with 20th Century Blues posters, and two CD's - "This Was Now 1974-1998" and ??.
It was a true pleasure to meet the band after the show. They were very unassuming, approachable, and charming, and seemed to have enjoyed the performance the crowd was definitely appreciative with thunderous applause throughout. I've never seen the Boardwalk so packed...Alvino was polite, answered my probably silly questions about his set-up---I say silly, as I am not a drummer and don't know the difference between a ride, crash, or splash cymbal :). I was especially taken with Livingston's humor, geniality and cordialness...He spoke to me and a few other fans & I for some time even though the other band members were already in their vehicle. His surprising British accent was very prominent I would never have guessed he was British after hearing his stellar vocal performance--- I found out all three of the members live in England when not touring. Robin was escorted quickly out of the concert hall and into a waiting black Lincoln town car...he was patient and polite enough to sign various Trower & Procol Harum albums, posters & CD sleeves from his passenger side seat through a rolled-down window from a line of approximately 20-25 more-than-appreciative fans, although he seemed quite tired (after a stunning performance like that, I don't blame him...).
All in all I could not have planned a more exciting and awesome St. Patrick's Day, and look forward to date when I can meet the band again here in Northern California or elsewhere "on the road". Rock on Robin Trower!!!"Review # 2 by Mike Horton
"SAW RT AT THE BOARDWALK IN ORANGEVALE THE OTHER NIGHT. STOOD 12 FEET IN FRONT OF ROBIN....THE GUY IS STILL JUST AWESOME! TOOK ABOUT 24 HRS FOR HEARING TO RECOVER....CAN'T WAIT FOR (HOPEFULLY) NEXT YEAR."Review # 3 by George
See combined review of Orangevale and Reno below
15. March 18, 1999 Peppermill Hotel Casino, Reno, Nevada
Review by George
I went to both the Orangevale show (at the Boardwalk) and Reno. The Reno show was superior.
In Reno the crowd numbering about 800, (Orangevale about 300 people), was totally in to RT a lot more than in Orangevale (and they were in to it pretty well too). I assume RT hadn't played in the Reno area for a long long time.
Fortunately, no prelim bands. RT started around 8:30. I think the sound was better at Peppermill. One could certainly feel excitement a lot more with this crowd. But that may be a little difficult to judge. (I was front row seated)
I feel even the performance may have been better in Reno than at Orangevale.
At Orangevale, I felt (I was about 1/3 of the way back) the crowd wasn't concentrating on RT. (Why are people walking around or even talking during RT, a soulful icon who is still producing fresh and wonderful material? Its as if these people expect to see him often.)The second band played a little too long. But they were decent and were appropriate style of music (rock/blues). But the excessive soloing by one of the guitar dudes was lame.
In the lobby of the Peppermill the next morning (early afternoon) I chatted with Liv for a few minutes. He said they found the (temperature) club in Orangevale very warm. In Orangevale, "Blues for Soul" sounded awful. But at the Peppermill, it sounded great. So there may have been some sound problems. Anyhow, Robin looked great and the Peppermill (Reno) performance was awesome!! The tunes were the same as all other gigs on this tour.
At both clubs, there was a good mix of people: some younger, but mostly middle-aged and older, good combo of men and women. Overall, I would say, as indicated above, the crowd at Peppermill's in Reno seemed at least a bit more sophisticated and certainly more excited for RT. And Robin appreciated it. But you always have a few jerks.
I recall in 1998 at the gig in San Francisco, some idiot or two were blowing weed smoke onto RT. Similarly, I saw a little bit of the same in Reno at the end of the show. Not too cool...... And a whole lot of immaturity.....
The Boardwalk club in Orangevale, having hosted RT at leasted two other times in the 1990s, is about 20miles from the center of Sacramento. Its a little divey as most would admit but its also "cool" at the same time. Just a little element of sleaze.
All the best to the RT Band and the fans!!
George
16. March 20, 1999 Zephyr Club, Salt Lake City, Utah
No Review yet
17. March 22, 1999 Ogden Theatre, Denver, Colorado
No Review yet
18. March 23, 1999 El Rey Theatre, Albuquerque, New Mexico
No Review yet
19. March 25, 1999 Cowboy Club, Wichita, Kansas
No Review yet
20. March 26, 1999 Roadhouse Rubys South , Olathe, Kansas
Review by Chris O'Meara
I saw the Robin Trower show last night (March 26) at Roadhouse Ruby's in Olathe, Kansas (Kansas City); I was lucky enough to not be able to find a seat, and walked up to check out the opening band's gear after they finished their set; This left me at the center of the stage at the front of the dance floor, where I stayed 'till the end of Robin's entire show (I always wanted a chance to be in the front row of center stage, and what better show to be there at!).
I saw a Trower show back in the late '80's, and I've read people say he looks old & frail; I thought he looked as though he's aging gracefully, and had a distinguished British gentlemanly sort of look in the pinstriped suit, kind of reminding me of Peter O'Toole in the "King Ralph" movie except playing killer blues/rock licks!
His playing was as good as I remembered it being when I saw him before, the crowd was very happy to see him, and the band & crowd played off from each other's energy; I was happy to hear them play "Day of the Eagle," which I heard a couple days before on the radio in anticipation of the show;
The setlist was as follows:
1.) Too Rolling Stoned
2.) Rise Up Like the Sun
3.) No Time
4.) I Want You To Love Me
5.) Prisoner Of Love
6.) Secret Place
7.) Blue For Soul
8.) Day Of The Eagle
9.) Bridge of Sighs
10.) 20th Century Blues
11.) Sweet Little Angel
12.) Little Bit Of Sympathy
Encores;
13.) Crossroads
14.) Extermination Blues
Robin's playing is still in great form, and he played with reckless abandon on the faster tunes in the set, and the slower-paced "Secret Place" had the crowd hanging on every note he played.
I had never heard Robin sing until now, and his vocals were better than adequate on the songs he sang; Livingstone Brown did a great job covering the vocals on the old material, but I could barely hear him due to the guitar being so loud; Being a guitar player, this didn't bother me at all.
Robin played his sea-foam green & vintage white Fender Stratocasters all evening, and except for one tune where the neck and middle pickups were selected, and about (5) 20-second bridge pickup selections, his guitar was on the neck pickup throughout the entire show, with Robin using the Wah pedal to squeeze out any brighter frequencies should he require them in a song.
It did my heart good to see Robin Trower still in demand and able to stir the crowd into grateful appreciation of his music after all these years, and for him to be able to reinvent himself as an artist, without the usual commericial selling-out that we're seeing today; Chris O'Meara
21. March 27, 1999 Mississippi Nights-Laclede's Landing, St. Louis, Missouri
Review #1 by Mike Mcroy
saw robin for the 3rd time last night at the sold out mississippi
nights in st louis mo. robin sold it out last year to. the band hit the
stage to 1200 very loud fans and tore into too rolling stoned every song
brought a roar from the standing room only crowd. the new song with robin
singing is called blue for soul and i liked it cant wait for the new cd
that robin said would be out later this year!
set list
too rolling stoned
rise up like the sun
no time
i want you to love me
prisoner of love
secret place
blue for soul
day of the eagle
bridge of sighs
20th century blues
sweet little angel
little bit of sympathy
encores
crossroads
extermination bluesReview #2 by Anonymous
Seen robin in st.louis 3-27-99 (6th time) he is to much. I was told at the concert that if he sold enough of the new cd's at concerts it was not going to stores so don't pass it up. got his autograph on his live 1974 album and is now wrapped in plasstic waiting on a frame!
22. March 28, 1999 Juke Joint, Springfield, Missouri
No Review yet
23. March 30, 1999 Medina Entertainment Center, Hamel, Minnesota
Review by Paul
Robin played the Medina Entertainment Center just west of Mnpls last night, it was a little over two hour drive from my house so I got a chance to catch "For Earth Below, Live, and Passion" on the CD player.
The venue was a large "bar" or small dance hall with decent acoustics, I was seated about 20 feet from centerstage. The warm-up band was a 3 piece rock/blues outfit with a guitarist who liked fast scales and distortion a little too much IMO
Robin started about 9 PM, I had hoped their sound guy who keep the volume more reasonable than the previous band, but sadly they were actually louder.
The sound was pretty clean, with Robin's solo stuff like his extended "Bridge of Sighs" cut nicely and the more "real" blues tunes pretty nice too, but when the full tilt stuff hit -- like the opener "Too Rolling stoned" the bass players vocals were VERY BADLY lost in the mix -- if I hadn't known the lyrics by heart I'd have never know what was being sung " That was very disappointing as I have several Live Trower shows on CD and the vocals always cut through nicely (except on the new This is now cd first song disc one "Bridge of Sighs " actually a pretty "good" example of how poor the vocals were at this show -- sorry to harp -- but this was VERY disappointing.
Otherwise Robin played the exact set as the Seattle 98 on "This is now". And he did play his heart out, lots of smiles and he really seemed to be enjoying himself. He is appearing rather old but still has the same facial expressions and his characteristic "Thank you very much ....... " brought back memories -- sure wish I could have seen him live back in the 70's :-)
I waited for awhile after the show but never did see the band come out, there was tee-shirts and "20th Century Blues" and "This is now " CD's for sale at the entrance
I listened to the King Biscuit show and Long Misty Days/In City Dreams on the trip home at a much more reasonable volume (although still loud -- I do like my rock loud but clean) and hoped maybe Robin would release some more live shows on CD --- seemed like a better experience -- sorry to disappoint you folks --- did anyone else experience anything similar at precious shows -- I haven't saved any reviews but seemed like the ones I read were much better than this :-(
Paul
24. March 31, 1999 The Modjeska Theatre, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Review by Michael Bonnet
I've been an avid RT fan since the early 70's and this was my 9th show. Doors opened at 6:30pm and my friend Dave and I (his 1st RT show) were the 5th and 6th in the door. I promptly got set at stage left knowing Robin is always there.
The show started promptly at 7:30pm. The opening act was a local power trio that did their best to get the crowd going. Their set was approximately 25 minutes.At this point I must say that I was a little disappointed once again at the fan support Milwaukee gives. There were approx 150 in the hall at this point. By the time Robin hit the stage there were about 350 people. The show did not sell out. Page/Plant didn't even sell out when they were here either.
Robin took the stage at 8:50pm and never looked back. The sparse crowd gave him a warm reception. He opened with his usual "Too Rolling Stoned" and the set was identical to the previous shows on this tour. Robin looked good, maybe a little thin than in the past but his playing has not diminished in the least. He wore the dark gray suit with a charcoal shirt and some funky brown suede shoes. His set up consisted of the 2 Fender "Hot Rod Deville" amps on top of twin 4x12 Marshall cabinets and one Marshall JB800 amp. He used only 2 Strat's. He used a white on blonde for the entire show with one exception and that being a white on green for "Secret Place" off "20th Century Blues". His effects were his ever present "Vox" wah wah and a new Full Tone "Deja Vibe". I've noticed in recent years that Robin relies less and less on the "phasing" effects that he made famous. None the less, his playing and sound were impeccable. His energy level was high and he was in good spirits despite the attendance. Livingston Brown's playing was inspired and his vocals although barely audible, were adequate. I still miss Davey Pattison's vocals. Alvino Bennett was VERY impressive on drums. His Gretsch kit was small (single bass) but powerful. They both compliment Robin's playing and they are a very tight group.
I must say again that Robin's playing was superb. As my wife once said he is "one with the guitar". His love for what he play's and the emotional way he does it brings goose bumps every time I see him. My friend Dave said it almost brought tears to his eyes seeing a legend do his thing. What more can I say.
I was pleasantly surprised to find that Robin was going to be signing autographs after the show. He was escorted into his brown Town Car and signed form the passenger side with the window down. I was the first in line and got a photo from a '76 Milwaukee date and the ticket stub from the show last night signed. I thanked Robin, shook hands and he gave me that great smile. I didn't stick around, but I'm sure he signed for everybody. There were about 30 people in line. DON'T pass up a chance to see this tour. You won't be disappointed......
1Laker.
25. April 1, 1999 House Of Blues, Chicago, Illinois
Review #1 by Davis734@aol.
It's a thursday night in the windy city and I'm driving through car packed streets to the Chicago House of Blues. "A Tale Untold" is soaring through my car speakers and I'm getting ready for the set of the year. Some friends of mine, "Mother Root" are opening for the man tonight (as they've had the pleasure of doing on several occasions in recent years). I finally get parked and walk in to the House of Blues. The electricity is already in the air and it's still 2 hours before showtime.
"Mother Root" hits the stage at about 9:00 and the place is packed. They did a real nice rockin' set and now the stage is set. The crowd is pumped and the huge curtain slowly opens. The unmistakable roar of Trowers strat fills the room as the band strikes a chord in unison that segways into "Too Rolling Stoned". Ahhh, it's NOW showtime and believe me....it was kicking.
I've read some of the other reviews and the set seemed like the same as other shows. The only things I'd like to see him do are these. Think about getting another lead singer. I love Liv's playing and singing but a front man with a little greater range would be a nice addition. (however, replacing Jimmy Dewar is just not even something minutely possible) and secondly I'd like to see him perform more of his catalog of album tracks that he has packed our CD and LP treasure chests full of for years. How great it would be to hear "It's Only Money", "Hannah", "Shame The Devil", "Long Misty Days" or something from "Victims" or "Caravan".
I've been a Trower fan since 1974 (seen him dozens of times since then and had the pleasure of meeting him on a couple of occasions) and it's tremendous how he has continued to lead the way, staying within the trio format, and painting masterful soundscapes with every recorded release and every show. Tonight's show was no exception. The ethereal bends with
controlled feedback and dynamics on "Bridge of Sighs". The gorgeous chord voicings on "Secret Place". The classic sliding 7th chords of "Little Bit of Sympathy" and all the bluesy soulful tunes in between. He may not be the most well-known guitarist of recent decades but from my perspective, he clearly sails above even the pinnacle of rock/blues guitarists on this planet, and it sure has been a pleasure to hear and experience all the offerings he has shared with us here on Earth below. Thank you Robin!
Davis734Review #2 By Joe Brenneman
As a 48 year old Viet Nam combat veteran, I had never seen Robin before until one balmy Chicago night; Thursday, April 1st I drove my son (a senior at the University of Illinois in Urbana), my youngest brother from Peoria, and myself at go-to-jail speeds after work in Decatur for 230 miles to see the guitar-playing living legend.In Viet Nam, I had a cassette tape of Procol Harum's Broken Barricades (released in '71 the same year I was in Viet Nam) featuring a then 26 year old Trower. I had not heard of him as of yet and would not really know who he was until Bridge of Sighs was released a few years later.
Since then, I have been a huge fan having amassed just about everything Trower has done, and converting anything on vinyl to CD.
Many of the reviews speak of Robin looking old, gray, and frail. I was on the second floor of the House of Blues and I couldn't see him that well because of all the smoke and the group of people who decided to hold a class reunion right in front of me as I stood beneath a blower (a mechanical one) in an effort to get some fresh air.
I would discount any disparaging remarks about Robin's looks because attending his concerts is all about hearing what he can do with a guitar. He makes it wail and scream and cry. He is a master of the instrument and is so thoroughly entertaining that his live performances far outshine most of the studio tracks that he has recorded. The melodic complexities performed by this virtuoso defy the efforts of the best audience air-guitar performer. He can't be copied.
I hope that Robin keeps touring with bassist and lead singer Livingston Brown. Because of Brown's singing talents, Robin's presentation included several older hits that heretofore had not been played because of the difficulty in trying to match the sound provided by former bassist and lead singer James Dewar (heard on Twice Removed from Yesterday, Bridge of Sighs, For Earth Below, and Long Misty Days).
Trower featured several selections from '94's 20th Century Blues, originally recorded with Livingston Browne and an extremely talented drummer named Mayuyu.
If you don't have any of the CDs mentioned in the last two paragraphs, go out and buy them...now. They are all you will ever need in an effort to experience the wide range of styles mastered by the Master.
Joe Brenneman, Decatur, IL
26. April 2, 1999 House Of Blues, Chicago, Illinois
Review #1 by Anonymous
TROWER FANS, JUST WANTED TO SHARE A CONCERT REVIEW WITH YA. I WENT HOB APRIL 2 IN CHICAGO AND ROBIN TORE THE ROOF DOWN! HE IS THE GREATEST AND HE JUST DONT MISS A LICK. HE WAS ABSOLUTLEY AWSOME AND HIS NEW SONG"BLUE FOR SOUL" IS VERY GOOD. HE IS LOOKING A LITTLE OLD AND FRAIL BUT DONT WORRY, AGE HAS MADE HIM BETTER! :)Review #2 by Jeff C.
April 2@ HOB in Chicago. I drove 200 miles from Indianapolis to see Robin and the guys. Well, it was well worth the drive. I knew the set list and the sound was superb. Robin was a little late for some reason, but around 11:00 he opened the curtains with a huge audience reaction. The sound was perfect, but Robin didn't seem to smile until after the 3rd song. Bridge of Sighs was the very best version I ever heard, it had so much soul. Blue for Soul, the new song, sent chills through my soul. It had that 70's flavor to it and my wife said I looked like I (had) seen a ghost, I was amazed. Once again, Robin kicked royal booty, the best is better!!
Jeff C.
27. April 3, 1999 7th House , Pontiac, Michigan
Review by Terry "T-Bone" Mathley
I just got home from seeing Robin Trower demolish the city of Pontiac. I hadn't been able to see Robin since 1994, and was shocked to hear how great the band sounded. They sounded good in 94, but they sounded great tonight.
I didn't catch the opening band's name, but they were quite good. The band included local Detroit legends, Bobby East on Guitar, Harmonica Shaw on Harp, on Bass - Gary Rasmussen-formerly of Sonics' Rendezvous Band, he also put in some time with Iggy Pop. I didn't catch the drummer's name. They plowed through a set of Blues standards, and got a good crowd reaction.
Robin and the boys took the stage at 10:45 PM to the rip-roaring sounds of "Too Rolling Stoned" and didn't look back till the last notes of "Extermination Blues."
The Set List:
1.Too Rolling Stoned
2.Rise Up Like the Sun
3.No Time
4.I Want You To Love Me
5.Prisoner of Love
6.Secret Place
7.Blue for Soul (New Song)
8.Day of the Eagle
9.Bridge of Sighs
10.20th Century Blues
11.Sweet Little Angel
12 Little Bit of Sympathy
Encore:
13. Crossroads
14. Extermination Blues
The band was so incredibly tight...I heard a lot of fans talking afterward about how this was the best they ever heard him play....and they got no argument from me.
I was glad to see them include "No Time" in the set list. That has been one of my favorite songs since it was released. Liv did a great job on the vocals too.
After the show, Robin signed autographs from the passenger side of a '98 Black Lincoln Towncar. He was very cordial to everyone....smiling, shaking hands, posing for pictures. I had him sign a Stratocaster pickguard, a copy of the Trower Power Newsletter (Which he was very glad to see that I had.), and 5 CD inserts. I didn't know if he would sign that much stuff, so after the first two items I asked him if he could sign more and he said, "No problem, whatever you have." It was good to see that someone who is a great musician is also a great person.
If Robin comes anywhere near where you live...You have to go see him....YOU HAVE TO!!
Terry "T-Bone" Mathley
28. April 4, 1999 Odeon Concert Club, Cleveland, Ohio
Review by Anonymous
April 4th easter night robin trower appeared @ a club in the rock & roll capital of the world, cleveland oh. it had been about 20 years since the last time I saw him live. he broke into day of the eagle then slipped in to one of his mellow blue's tunes from his new album. as he was working his magic I thought to myself he is actually one of the only last guitar greats still alive. from the outside he looked a little worn but from the inside he was as young as he was 25 years ago , I like to think the same about myself considering all the things we used to induce back then. thank GOD we still have robin to rock with. it was one hell of a show. rock on robin rock on, I'm glad we still have you. just think if the world still had jimmie & stevie ray .
29. April 6, 1999 Al Rosa Villa-Newport Music Hall, Columbus, Ohio
Review #1 by Anonymous
I saw the robin trower 4/6/99 show in col. ohio, he played great,to a packed concert hall, the new song (blues for soul) was excellant! I have seen him about 10 times, and he always puts on a great show.Review #2 by Anonymous
Saw Robin in Columbus, Oh on 4/6/99. I've seen him a total of 6 times since 1978, and all I can say is; he still jams!! When it comes to being a guitar virtuoso, the man fits the bill. Rockin' or "messin the blues" the guy flat out plays incredibly! His show at the Newport Music Hall was awesome. Robin still has "it" after all these years. He was in a zone last night! The riffs were crisp and tight and he got the house jammin from the get go; he did some old and new and all of it sounded superb! When comes to flat out guitar virtuosity Robin Trower is "the man." His skills are better than when I first saw him in 1978;Robin you're simply the best!! "Keep on keepin' on!"
30. April 7, 1999 Graffiti Showcase, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
No Review yet
31. April 8, 1999 Daytona's, Riviera Beach, Maryland
No Review yet
32. April 9, 1999 Theatre Of Living Arts, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Review #1- Trower performance cancelled
I went to the TLA in Phila tonight.When I got there the second group on bill just ended their set.I had to work till 9:00 and thought everything worked out great.But 5min after getting in they announced that Robin couldn't play because the building wasn't safe.Because of all the rain and it being an old theater they had to cancell at the last minute.Someone said that part of the roof was leaking or cracking and that they left it up to robin weather he would go on or not.I don"t blame him for cancelling but I hope he makes up for it and comes back to Philly!!!
FrankReview #2
Robin's concert scheduled for Friday April 9, in Philadelphia, was canceled due to a roof leak. The leak was right above stage just behind Robin. Some of his equipment was covered with tarps to protect it from the water. The official reason why the show was canceled was due to "security purposes".
The BlobReview #3
It was a rainy, misty night in Philly, a perfect evening for a Robin Trower concert...but it was not to be. The show at the TLA on beautiful South Street in Philadelphia was cancelled. The 2 opening bands got to play there sets, but the ultimate reason for traveling out on this miserable night would not surpass. At 11:05 pm there was an announcement stating that the show could not go on because of structural reasons. The stage had water leaking on it from high up above. I guess for fear of the roof caving in on Robin Trower and his band they had to cancel the show. After all 1,000 fans had been evacuated I caught up with the guitar player from the band called Killing Floor, who had just finished there set 15 minutes before and he verified that indeed the ceiling was leaking on to the bands equipment. What a real bummer for all the Trower fans in attendance this evening. There is no word at this time if the show will be rescheduled or not...I only hope I can get a refund for my tickets.
JmorReview #4
April 9th 1999
Trower comes to Philly on a rainy Friday. The venue is the T.L.A. (Theatre of the Living Arts) on Philly's famous South Street. Ticket sales were brisk. The place holds about 700 people and there was about 600 advanced tickets sold. People were lining up to purchase outside. It is clear Trower still has quite a cult following here.
The roof of the place was leaking badly right behind Bennett's drum kit. They put down some tarps so things were behind schedule. The first band didn't hit the stage until 9:20pm. They were great! I mean very impressive. They were called whoz bluez or something. They did mostly blues covers (Cray, Stevie Ray, Tony Z and stuff) but did them good! The singer is phenomenal; actually kind of sounded like Dave Patterson. Don't know his name but I am sure we will see him again. they brought out some horn players too. The whole place went nuts. Second out was the Killin' Floor. Young 4 piece group. Also very good. Mostly instrumental stuff but the guitar player is a left handed kid (Like 18) and he can really play. Two great opening acts....sure looked like it was going to be a great night.
Except, just before 11 they came out and started to dismantle the drum kit. The crowd started to moan. Then they said that Trower wasn't going to be playing tonight. Everyone was pissed! A lot of the attendees were from two local biker factions and they were upset. They really didn't give a reason but I heard from someone backstage that Trowers manager saw the tarps and canceled right then and there.
There has been no word of a new date yet. We all hope Robin comes back to Philly. There is certainly a big audience for him in this town.
33. April 10, 1999 Jaxx, Springfield, Virginia
No Review yet
34. April 12, 1999 Toads Place, New Haven, Connecticut
No Review yet
35. April 13, 1999 Pearl Street, Northampton, Massachusetts
No Review yet
36. April 14, 1999 Paradise Rock Club, Boston, Massachusetts
No Review yet
37. April 15, 1999 Roxy Theatre, Northampton, Pennsylvania
No Review yet
38. April 16, 1999 Club Bene, South Amboy(Sayerville), New Jersey
Review #1 by Les Leifken
Club Bene friday night saw long time guitar legend Robin Trower play to a sell out crowd. By the time Robin hit the stage many fans were left outside as the club was full to capacity, I asked someone how many people he thought were in there and he said at least a thousand to twelve hundred. Robin could easily do two or three more shows in New Jersey next tour, the fan response was tremendous.
After a short set by a blues band Robin hit the stage to a standing ovation from the sell out crowd at 10: 15 sharp. He seemed almost taken aback by the crowd response and several times during the show said "thank you, what a great audience you are". Well, Robin treated the New Jersey fans to a great show with his surprisingly clean sounding Strat killing on song after song. Livingstone Brown seemed to be having some vocal trouble but it hindered the show not at all.
The high point of the evening may have been a stinging version of " Bridge of Sighs"that upon it's completion the entire club came to there feet for an extended standing ovation. Before long Robin had worked his magic and the end of the night was at hand. He closed with "A Little Bit of Sympathy" and it rocked big time, after a short exit the band returned for two songs for there encore. Just a side note here Robin's drummer was killer, I don't think you could ask for more as this gentleman really laid down the beat in a big way, equally the bass player was in the pocket as good as it gets. A great supporting effort behind Robin's legendary guitar. Do not miss this man and his guitar as who knows how much longer he will choose to do these tours.
Les Leifken
Review #2 by SOLYDAVE
Robin Rocked as usual with his normal 14 song concert on Friday Night at Club Bene in New Jersey. He was sensational! I've seen him over a dozen times and I am never disappointed.His new song sounded great. He reallys plays Crossroads stronger than ever.
The only constructive criticism is that Livingston's vocal are drowned out (Robin's vocals are audible). I guess this is because he sings so "low". It detracts in certain songs, such as Bridge of Sighs. Next concert I would love to see him add a vocalist, which would allow him to play a greater variety of songs he has written, especially the one which require a vocalist with a lot of range.Review #3 by Jay Folk
Hi Trower fans,
I just caught the last 2 nights of the Trower tour. On the 16th I took my wife Julie to see RT at Club Bene in NJ. She had a great time even though the place was a good 2 hours away from where we live. Boy, that place is in the middle of nowhere! A great thing about seeing him there was that we could sit down at a table (especially since she is currently suffering from a broken toe). It so happened that we were right directly in front of Robin. The opening band was very lightweight. I didn't catch what they were called. At least they were a blues band. The harmonica player really carried the band although they had 2 guitarists. The food there was lousy. Julie didn't even eat hers. I bought myself a T-shirt & his new double live CD. That was the only CD of Robin's that they had there to sell.
Robin played some beautiful chordal things that night & did some great stuff with harmonics that he didn't do the next night. Also, I noticed once that he was playing with his thumb & sounding very nimble. He seemed more introspective in his playing at Club Bene rather than fiery & intense. Maybe because everyone was sitting down at tables. There was a kid sitting up front (maybe about 11 or 12) that Robin kept throwing picks to. At times he would look up from his guitar & smile at us. Some dufus kept shouting "Daydream" over & over. I guess he's taking a much needed break from that song on this tour. I've seen him play better, but he certainly played a great show. The vocals didn't come through very well that night. I couldn't tell if they were hoarse or if it was just a bad mix. At the end of the show this drunken guy with no teeth ran up to the stage shouting, "GIVE ME A PICK!" over & over.
After the show we went out the side door & waited for him to come out from outside the door. The road manager told us that we couldn't wait there & that Robin likes everyone to form a nice neat line. Someone started up Robin's car & turned on the heater & a minute later he came out with a bodyguard or 2. He sat down in the shotgun seat, & closed the door with the window open & a huge bouncer (or bodyguard) escorted one person at a time to where Robin was sitting in his car. He went through the whole line of people. He signed a couple guitars, a tee shirt, pictures & album covers. He was especially nice to my wife who said "Hi Mr. Trower, we really liked your show." He responded in a bright sounding "Thanks." I guess he's used to dealing with 40-something male guitar players (his typical fan) all the time & she looked especially cute. I came over after her with all my CD sleeves & told him that I wasn't asking him to autograph all of them, as it was a huge pile. He said, “Well, I'll sign some of them.” He looked to see which CD it was before he signed it & signed my Twice Removed..., Bridge of Sighs, For Earth Below, In City Dreams, Caravan, Long Misty Days, Victims of the Fury, Truce, Passion & then stopped & said, "that's all" & handed them back to me. (Twice Removed, For Earth Below & In City Dreams are my personal favorite RT CDs so you can imagine how pleased I was). I thanked him profusely & told him that he was "The Man" & to keep touring & making records.
The next night I went alone to Tramps Nightclub in NYC. Tramps is a horrible place. Standing room only, rude pushy people everywhere & very smoky. They get good bands there though. I've also seen Bootsy Collins & Steve Morse play there. Julie had a miserable time the last time I took her there to see Robin. She was pregnant & there were people pushing & shoving from all directions. Also, last time it was summer so it was very hot inside. She ended up going outside for most of the show. This time some large drunken idiot that wanted to be in front for the encore shoved me pretty hard in the back. There were 2 opening bands. The first was a blues quartet that featured an old black blues guitarist/singer. I didn't catch his name, but he was good. The final opening band was none other than Kim Simmonds & Savoy Brown. Boy oh Boy, He really tore it up & worked the crowd over, playing his blues & psychedelic guitar for about a full hour. That was definitely the worthiest opening band I've ever seen open for RT. I don't know if it was because of Kim Simmonds or if it was New York City, but Robin came out with a bang. Playing very loud and with absolute authority. Definitely rocking a lot harder than the previous night. The vocals sounded pretty good at Tramps. Liv sounded good singing BOS. I left right when it was over to catch the last train out of Manhattan. Robin only played Bridge of Sighs material, new songs, & blues covers. He did not play "No Time" either night. He must have scrapped it from his current setlist. With the exception of "Secret Place" & "BOS", all of his songs are (slow & fast) blues, & rockers. I would love to hear him play "Somebody' s Calling", "I'm Out to Get You", or "Ballerina" live, but last night Kim Simmonds with his psychedelic sounding effects & the hypnotizing vamps of his bass player got spacier than Trower did. Now I'm not saying that RT should have opened up for Kim Simmonds; Robin is definitely the hottest player I've ever seen. Although RT still rocks hard, with the exception of the 4 Bridge of Sighs songs, he totally ignores all of his huge body of work from the past. A few people at club Bene were saying that it was because Liv couldn't carry the JD songs so well, but I would tend to think that it is probably Robin's own choice after hearing how good Liv sounded on BOS at Tramps. I like his vocals better than DP's by far. If it were up to me, I'd substitute the BOS songs for songs from some of the other albums. It looked to me like Robin was only using 2 footpedals: A Vox wah & the Fulltone deja vibe. I didn't see that old Boss chorus that he used on earlier tours. It looked like he was using a couple Marshall half stacks & a fender combo for amplification. He used a cream colored strat for the opening & most of the show & a green strat for "Secret Place".
I recorded both nights including the Savoy Brown opener at Tramps on my >$200. Aiwa pocket cassette recorder on XLII tapes with the mic that came with the recorder pinned to my jacket collar. It makes fine recordings, but there's significant audience noise. At club Bene, the encore didn't get recorded, I think because some dufus knocked the recorder in his rush to catch a pick at the end of Little Bit of Sympathy. As I told Steve Shail already, my main collection of tapes is all boxed up while I'm building some tape shelves, but I will be happy to trade these 3 tapes for any RT that I don't have. If you're interested, Check out my Robin Trower list & see if you have anything to trade that I don't already have & let me know what dates you have. I will only trade these tapes for other Robin Trower tapes. They are NOT for sale. The Tramps show is 2 90-minute tapes & includes Savoy Brown. The Club Bene show is about 3/4 of a 90-minute tape. Be sure to get a first gen copy of these shows directly from me as I have the masters. After all, why settle for 2nd, 3rd, 4th, or even 5th gen?
Jay Folk
http://www.geocities.com/BourbonStreet/Delta/1802/
39. April 17, 1999 Tramps, New York, New York
Review #1 by Jay Folk
The next night I went alone to Tramps Nightclub in NYC. Tramps is a horrible place. Standing room only, rude pushy people everywhere & very smoky. They get good bands there though. I've also seen Bootsy Collins & Steve Morse play there. Julie had a miserable time the last time I took her there to see Robin. People pushing & shoving from all directions. Also, last time it was summer so it was very hot inside.
This time I got shoved pretty hard in the back by some large drunken idiot that wanted to be in front for the encore. There were 2 opening bands. The first was a blues quartet that featured an old black blues guitarist/singer. I didn't catch his name, but he was good. The final opening band was none other than Kim Simonds & Savoy Brown. Boy oh Boy, He really tore it up & worked the crowd over, playing his blues & psychedelic guitar for about a full hour. That was definitely the most worthy opening band I've ever seen open for RT. I don't know if it was because of Kim Simonds or if it was New York City, but Robin came out with a bang. Playing very loud and with absolute authority. Definitely rocking alot harder than the previous night. The vocals sounded pretty good at Tramps. Liv sounded good singing BOS. I left right when it was over to catch the last train out of Manhattan.
Robin only played Bridge of Sighs material, new songs, & blues covers. He did not play "No Time" either night. He must have scrapped it from his current setlist. With the exception of "Secret Place" & "BOS", all of his songs are (slow & fast) blues, & rockers. I would love to hear him play "Somebody' s Calling", "I'm Out to Get You", or "Ballerina" live, but last night Kim Simonds got spacier than Trower did. RT still rocks hard, but with the exception of Bridge of Sighs songs, he totally ignores all of his huge body of work. A few people at club Bene were saying that it was because Liv couldn't carry the JD songs so well, but I would tend to think that it is probably Robin's own choice after hearing how good Liv sounded on BOS at Tramps. I like his vocals better than DP's by far. If it was up to me, I'd substitute the BOS songs for songs from some of the other albums. Oh well.
Jay Folk
Review #2 by Carlos
....Last night I saw him (Robin Trower) at Tramps in NYC. A fine show by the band.
The set list was:
Too Rolling Stoned
Rise Up Like The Sun
I Want You To Love Me
Prisoner Of Love
Secret Place
* New Song - I Play The Blues With Soul
Day Of The Eagle
Bridge Of Sighs
20th Century Blues
Sweet Little Angel
Little Bit Of Sympathy
* Encore -
Crossroads
Extermination Blues
...I went to see Trower two years in a row now and even though the band sounded great, he's got to change his set list. He basically played the same show. He's got a great body of work from which to choose from. I understand that alot of fans want to hear the "staples" but to see the same stuff every year, I think I'll pass the next time he comes around.
Carlos
40. April 23, 1999 Jannus Landing, St. Petersburg, Florida
No Review yet
41. April 24, 1999 House Of Blues Downtown Disney Orlando, Lake Buena Vista, Florida
No Review yet
42. April 25, 1999 Carefree Theatre West Palm Beach, Florida
No Review yet
43. April 28, 1999 Ziggy's Winston-Salem, South Carolina
No Review yet
44. April 29, 1999 The Handlebar Greenville, South Carolina
No Review yet
45. April 30, 1999 House Of Blues Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
No Review yet
46. May 01, 1999 Music Midtown Festival Atlanta, Georgia
No Review yet
46. May 01, 1999 Music Midtown Festival Atlanta, Georgia
No Review yet
47. May 02, 1999 Nashville River Stages Festival Nashville, Tennessee
No Review yet
48. May 05, 1999 Bronco Bowl Dallas, Texas
No Review yet
49. May 06, 1999 Party On The Plaza - Jones Plaza Houston, Texas
No Review yet
50. May 07, 1999 House Of Blues French Quarter New Orleans, Louisiana
No Review yet
51. May 08, 1999 Beale St. Music Festival Memphis, Tennessee
No Review yet
52. Sept. 24 1999
London Astoria II (CANCELED)
London, England
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Updated: Saturday June 12, 1999
