Review: Robin Trower’s ‘Bridge of Sighs’ 50th Anniversary Box Set
Please watch the video above for the full unboxing review
This box set is a celebration of one of the most influential blues-rock albums of the 1970s.
This box set includes four discs (3 CDs and a Blu-ray):
Disc 1: Original 1974 album remastered
Disc 2: 2024 stereo mix of the album
Disc 3: Unreleased outtakes and rarities
Disc 4 (Blu-ray):
Dolby Atmos and 5.1 stereo instrumental mixes
Live at The Record Plant (1974)
The set also includes a 24-page booklet featuring an interview with Robin Trower and testimonials from Robert Fripp, Brian Ferry, Steve Lukather, Clive Bunker, Andy Parker, and more.
Track Listing Breakdown
Day of the Eagle
Original: 5:02
New Mix: 5:38
Bridge of Sighs
Original: 5:02
New Mix: 5:29
In This Place
Original: 4:29
New Mix: 6:17
The Fool and Me
Original: 3:53
New Mix: 4:45
Too Rolling Stoned
Original: 7:29
New Mix: 8:04
About to Begin
Original: 3:46
New Mix: 5:03
Lady Love
Original: 3:21
New Mix: 4:24
Little Bit of Sympathy
Original: 4:19
New Mix: 6:20
The 2024 remaster sounds fantastic and is probably the best version of the original album I’ve heard. However, the highlight of the set is the new stereo mix, which provides a fresh perspective on this classic. Here’s what makes this mix unique:
Extended Fades: Tracks like “Day of the Eagle” and “In This Place” have significantly longer fades, allowing you to experience extra notes and solos that weren’t part of the original.
Instrument Separation: The remix provides clearer separation between instruments, bringing out details in the bass lines, drums, and guitars.
Vocals: James Dewar’s vocals are more prominent, and his voice feels even more soulful and resonant.
The Blu-ray Disc is a standout feature, with the Dolby Atmos and 5.1 surround sound mixes providing an immersive listening experience. Hearing “Bridge of Sighs” swirl around your head in surround sound is nothing short of magical.
Live at The Record Plant (1974)
This set also includes a live recording from The Record Plant in 1974, available in full for the first time.
The original Bridge of Sighs album, released in 1974 and was a huge commercial success: it peaked at No. 7 on the Billboard 200 chart in the US.
Certified Gold by the RIAA.
The Bridge of Sighs 50th Anniversary Box Set is a lovingly curated tribute to one of the finest blues-rock albums of the 1970s. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to Robin Trower’s work, this set offers multiple ways to rediscover and appreciate this classic album. From the new stereo mix to the Dolby Atmos surround sound, it’s an essential addition to any collection.
Remembering the Legacy of the Late Musicians Behind Bridge of Sighs
As we celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Robin Trower’s Bridge of Sighs, it’s important to remember and honor the incredible musicians who contributed to its timeless sound but are no longer with us.
James Dewar (1942 – 2002)
James Dewar, the soulful voice behind Bridge of Sighs, was not only the bassist of Robin Trower’s trio but also one of the most distinctive vocalists in blues-rock history. His velvet-rich baritone vocals brought unparalleled depth and emotion to songs like “Bridge of Sighs,” “In This Place,” and “Too Rolling Stoned.” Dewar’s ability to convey raw emotion with his voice elevated Trower’s music to new heights, creating a seamless blend of guitar and vocals that made Bridge of Sighs such a powerful album. Sadly, Dewar passed away in 2002 after a long illness, but his vocal legacy continues to inspire musicians and fans alike.
Reg Isidore (1949 – 2009)
Reg Isidore, the original drummer for the Robin Trower Band, laid down the rhythmic foundation that made Bridge of Sighs groove with bluesy swagger. Isidore’s steady yet inventive drumming on tracks like “Day of the Eagle” and “Lady Love” showcased his ability to complement Trower’s guitar work without overshadowing it. His playing was characterised by its fluidity and precision, providing a perfect backdrop for Trower’s expressive solos. After leaving Trower’s band in the mid-1970s, Isidore continued to play with various artists before passing away in 2009.
Geoff Emerick (1946 – 2018)
Geoff Emerick, a legendary recording engineer and producer, mixed and engineered Bridge of Sighs. Known for his innovative work with The Beatles on albums like Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band and Abbey Road, Emerick brought his unique touch to the Bridge of Sighs sessions. His expertise in crafting immersive sonic landscapes played a crucial role in shaping the album’s distinctive atmosphere. Emerick passed away in 2018, but his contributions to music continue to resonate.
Together, Dewar, Isidore, and Emerick helped Robin Trower create a timeless masterpiece that continues to captivate listeners 50 years after its release. Their legacy lives on through the enduring power of Bridge of Sighs and the countless musicians they have inspired.
Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine
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