Robin Trower has taken a lot of heat since leaving Procol Harum for a solo career that many felt was a blatant Hendrix rip-off. No one questioned Trower's masterful technique as a guitarist; instead, his critics were disappointed that he had abandoned the distinctly personal ensemble style he'd developed with Procol Harum.

In City Dreams, however, finds Trower essentially back in his strong suit -- R&B. The tone of his playing hasn't changed, but the form is drastically altered from his previous solo efforts. He has absorbed and perfected the challenge Hendrix offered him and come up with a disciplined R&B package recorded in Miami's Criteria studios and directed by veteran soul producer Dan Davis.

Original album advertising art. Click image for larger view.

- John Swenson, Rolling Stone, 9/22/77.

Bonus Reviews!

Trower has abandoned his three-piece band format with the addition of bassist Rustee Allen, who adds a bit of funk to the rhythm section with his ever-present licks. Yet Trower's forceful guitar riffs remain the focal point as evidenced in his super-charged solos. Also separating this album from previous efforts is a greater concentration on lyrics and melody. The material overall reflects Trower's deep R&B roots but with more free-flowing spontaneity to the sound. There is less of a contrived, mechanized studio sound as the quartet lightens up and lets the music gracefully reach new peaks. James Dewar, who co-wrote each tune with Trower, supplies the husky vocals while drummer Bill Lordan maintains a thumping drum beat. Best cuts: "Sweet Wine Of Love," "Bluebird," "In City Dreams," "Somebody's Calling."

- Billboard, 1977.

Slightly funkier than the previous albums, it's still highlighted by a delicate ballad, "Bluebird," and the majestic title track.

- Michael P. Dawson, The All-Music Guide to Rock, 1995.

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