Trower, Robin: Joyful Sky (featuring Sari Schorr)

It’s hard to believe Robin Trower is 78 years old, but the British guitar hero is back with a new album Joyful Sky heavily steeped in the blues. That unmistakable Trower tone is intact and as powerful as ever. Before we go any further, let me give a nod to vocalist Sari Schorr, what a great voice, she’s got the pipes and the conviction to propel these songs to the next level. To quote Mr. Trower himself “I’ve worked with some great vocalists over the years but Sari is dynamite, just an absolute knockout�. Robin is 100% Correct.

The opener “Burn� is a slow blues, and Schorr knocks it out of the park, her rich and powerful voice immediately make an impression. Robin gets a couple solo spots here, and it’s easy to say I want to hear more from him, but in the context of the song, it’s exactly what is called for. Check out the video for this track. “The Distance� which is the newest single, has that grit that reminds me of his 70’s period, this one is a rocker, and Trower states the song is about “looking back at when you were younger and how far away that now seems at my great age.� “Peace of Mind� features one of my favorite moments from Robin, an excellent solo. The title track has a darker feel, but also sounds like one of those tracks that could explode when played live. Trower’s subtle playing fits the vibe perfectly, but I feel like this one could have had an epic ending. I love the riff for “The Circle Is Complete�, simple, direct, and memorable. The ending is a bit slow, somewhat of a momentum killer, but it is an opportunity to hear Robin’s guitar sing. The energy picks back up on “Flatter To Deceive� featuring a good groove and Trower infusing by picking spots to drop a few tasty licks.

After a number of listens, my only complaint would be Robin seems a bit restrained, I’m wishing for a few lengthy solos, let Robin stretch things out a bit. But, I don’t believe that was the intent, this album is a true collaboration between the Robin and Sari, and you get served plenty of Trower’s trademark licks along the way.

Track List:
1. Burn
2. I’ll Be Moving On
3. The Distance
4. Peace Of Mind
5. Change It
6. Joyful Sky
7. Need For You
8. The Circle Is Complete
9. Flatter To Deceive
10. I Will Always Be Your Shelter

Added: November 4th 2023
Reviewer: Eric Porter
Score:
Related Link: Artists @ Bandcamp
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Language: english

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