Royal Oak, Michigan was the place to be Tuesday night. Robin Trower, the British blues rock guitarist made a stop at the Royal Oak Music Theatre. The 80-year-old blues legend dazzled the packed house and wowed me with his impeccable, yet gentle guitar rips you come to expect from six decades. Trower had to cancel his 2024 US tour due to surgery for unspecified health reasons, leaving his fans to wonder about the future of his music and touring. Trower has always appreciated his audience’s admiration; you could see the sheer joy he had on his face tonight, happy to be doing what he has loved since he was a young lad at 13-years-of-age.
Apon arrival you could see the long lines waiting to get in to see the British icon knowing this was going to be a great night without even stepping foot inside the venue. Trower hit the stage around 8:00 pm to an emotional, loud cheer, from his fans of all ages which was nice to see. It is very refreshing to see the younger generation appreciate Robin Trower’s music even though most weren’t even born yet. Trower kicked off the evening with “The Razor’s Edge” from his 2022 album No More Worlds to Conquer is a gritty, yet soulful blues-rock track that you can just leave on repeat and go about your business. The living legend was simply on fire, making good use of his wah pedal, damn, what a way to kick off the night.
Trower and his signature Fender Stratocaster didn’t stop there delivering all the classic blues hit we come to love and grew up to. Trower had the crowd drawn in like a hypnotist with his second song “Too Rolling Stoned,” this track makes you feel good! The guitar sounds resonated through the venue like singing angels pure, uninterrupted blues, raw talent you ever seen. Singer Richard Watts handled the vocals sounding amazing, drummer Chris Taggart made good use of the sticks delivering toe tapping beats all evening long. Just a couple more tracks from the setlist, the rest you will have the see in a city near you. “Day of the Eagle” and “Bridge of Sighs” delivered a one two punch like a prized champion. The shred heavy back-to-back tracks punch staggered the crowd, the crowd still on their feet and looking for more.
Trower ended the evening with “Birdsong” if you like slow and heavy with a side of banger with your jam then this is for you. Trower thanked his fans both with his guitar and a thank you for coming out, exiting the stage with a huge ovation filled with respect and love for the blues legend. At 80-years old Trower keeps busy dropping four new albums this decade alone which include “Come Find Me” along with celebrating with his reissued classic “For Earth Below” 50th anniversary. The 14-song set was masterfully done by a true showman. Christmas is in five months do yourself a favor and treat yourself to this gem of a show.
Robin Trower live at the Royal Oak Music Theatre July 8, 2025.
