Robin Trower’s “For Earth Below” Celebrates 50th Anniversary with Special Edition
Robin Trower, a talented musician often overshadowed during his time with Procol Harum, emerged as one of the finest disciples of Jimi Hendrix. His evolution into a guitar legend with a unique sound that built upon his hero’s legacy was unexpected. Teaming up with vocalist and bassist James Dewar, Trower’s talent soared to new heights. The addition of ex-Sly and the Family Stone drummer Bill Lordan on their third album, For Earth Below, introduced elements of funk and R&B that enhanced their sound significantly.
The 50th anniversary edition box set of For Earth Below includes a remastered version of the original album on the first disc. The album showcased Trower’s signature wah-wah technique combined with Dewar’s soulful vocals, presenting a radio-friendly rock sound. Tracks like “Shame The Devil,” “Alethea,” and the title track displayed a blend of loose, funky playing with self-assurance. Trower’s delicate guitar work and Dewar’s commanding bass and vocals shone through in songs like “It’s Only Money” and “Fine Day.” The influence of Lordan’s drumming added a dynamic dimension to tracks like “Fine Day” and “Gonna Be More Suspicious.”
The second disc features an extended stereo mix of the album, offering a brighter and more spacious sound overall. While some songs differ slightly in structure, with extended codas or hard stops instead of fades, the remix maintains the essence of the original album. Noteworthy changes can be heard in tracks like “Shame The Devil” and “It’s Only Money,” where Trower’s guitar work and Dewar’s vocals are more pronounced.
Disc three includes outtakes and rarities, including early vocal takes and live performances from Top Of The Pops and BBC Live In Concert. The band’s stripped-down live recordings showcase their raw energy and instrumental prowess, highlighting their ability to deliver powerful performances. The extended jam session on the last track exemplifies their improvisational talent and musical chemistry.
The fourth disc features a live show recorded at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles during the album tour. Songs like “Day of the Eagle” and “Bridge Of Sighs” captivate the audience with their intensity, while tracks like “Fine Day” and “Alethea” benefit from the live atmosphere. Classics like “Too Rolling Stoned” showcase the band’s electrifying stage presence and musicianship.
While a comprehensive box set may appeal to die-hard fans, some listeners may find the additional material on discs two and three unnecessary. A condensed version comprising the original album and the live show could suffice for casual fans. The 50th anniversary edition of For Earth Below offers a nostalgic look back at Robin Trower’s iconic album, highlighting his growth as a musician and the enduring appeal of his music.