Moody and inspired...
5
By novemberland1
Along side of "Living Out of Time" (2003) and his final, brilliant collaboration with Jack Bruce, "Seven Moons" (2007), "The Playful Heart" is my absolute favorite of Trower's 21st century work. While Robin's vocals are solid on the tunes that he sings, I much prefer the excellent Davey Pattinson singing lead. I wish Trower would have let him sing lead on all of the tunes. I like the mix of Pattinson singing lead with Trower as the backing voice (as on the title track and on "The Turning").
Another thing to note is the excellent backing band on "Playful Heart". The rhythm section is fabulous. Pete Thompson is a powerful and swinging presence on drums as is the exceptional Glenn Letsch on bass.
Sadly, as fine as the material and the depth of Trower's own performances are on all of Trower's subsequent recordings, each sorely lacks the chemistry of an exceptional band such as the one found here on "The Playful Heart", on "Living Out of Time" or "Seven Moons". The arrangements here have a rich subtlety that only strong band interplay can provide to a well-crafted tune. Be that as it may, this one fine record and a real jewel in the man's legacy.
RE vocal bashers
5
By BiggDee76
We don't listen to Robin Trower for the vocals now do we? (Hendricks was mediocre at best in that department as well.) Trower's guitar work is second to none. And yes, he just gets better with time, as this album confirms.
Give the man some respect
3
By Still love Trower
No I don't care for the vocals. They can be distracting. But when the man plays, that's the relevance.
Strat master
5
By Bill Baum
Robin Trower is one of the finest guitarists around. He has a unique sound that is definitive of classic rock. It's great to see him so productive and still putting out great tunes. I must admit I miss James Dewar, but I am warming up to Davey Pattison. If you get a chance to see this guy live don't pass it up.
Disappointing
2
By UncutOne
This album doesnt hold a candle to the early albums. James Dewar WAS the sound of Robin Trower, and is in my opinion was one of the greatest rock vocalists ever. Robin cannot sing, and his vocals make any merits the songwriting and guitar work may havve a moot point. Heres an idea: Draft Paul Rogers (Free, Bad Company) away from Queen, where he is totally 'miscast' and wasting his talent, and let him work his magic with Trower.I think he's the only singer who could fill the void that was left after Dewar's passing.
Awful Singer
1
By tomharvey2011
First I have to say that I'm a huge Trower fan. I seen him is concert 30 years ago and love his older stuff. Just listened to all the new songs on ITunes and the singer is awful and the guitar was less than satisfying. Listen before buying.
Great guitar playing
3
By BLINDMELON
But someone please tell Robin that he can't sing!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Singer?
4
By v.sparrow
I don't know who the singer is, but the songs would be MUCH better with a different one. He is boring.
Bluzeman56
5
By Bluzeman 56
Sounds Great keep it comming Robin
Thank you Robin!
5
By johnnybluesman
Another great record . The notes melt off his strat and you can feel the soul. Great song writting and lyrics!
