Yes,seems like I need to go down to the fabric store and get more black satin Being 71,I'm into my last decade . All the goners have left future rockers a treasure chest of goodies.ENJOY!!!
It's rare to see a Trower reaction vid, so I saw this and clicked on immediately. The whole album is perfection. Glad you dig it Doug. This track gives me chills every time.
Trower was criticized for copying Hendrix’s sound but I think he expanded on it and improved it to create his own style and sound. And James Dewar was the secret weapon that made this album incredible. What a great and soulful singer! Together they created this masterpiece of Guitar Rock n Blues!
This song is a gut-punch. I can feel the wind and the pain and the sorrow. It is a masterpiece of emotion. I don't even want to hear other people's versions of it. Robin stuck the landing and that's all I need to know...or hear.
I met James Dewar towards the end of his life when illness was taking its toll. I didn't recognise him as THE James Dewar until I spotted the bass in the corner of the room. A true great. Trower is also one of the greats and how tremendous to have them both in the same band. Puts the class in classic rock.
Bridge, Caravan, for earth below, on and on.......even "new" albums hold magic for the senses. Robin has always had that special thing and even in his seventees he is still a force to be reckoned with. R.I.P. Mr Dewar, sometimes people are in the right place and Sh.... falls together, Decades of it with Robin and James, cant be replicated and we are the beneficiary of such amazing collaboration. How lucky we are and have been. L.L.Robin Trower!
The view from the Bridge of Sighs was the last view of Venice that convicts saw before their imprisonment. The bridge's English name was bequeathed by Lord Byron in the 19th century as a translation from the Italian "Ponte dei sospiri",[2][3] from the suggestion that prisoners would sigh at their final view of beautiful Venice through the window before being taken down to their cells.[4][5]
@@billkant849 Having that memory at that time was a good inner moment, wasn’t it? I did the same in Oxford, England. I thought of a favorite pop song that has since gone on to become my anthem in these senior years: “Itchy-koo Park” by The Small Faces. It’s all too beautiful …
I'm 54 and for so many years I knew relatively nothing about Robin Trower except this song and a couple of other minor hits. In the last five years of my life, that has changed greatly. Robin's output with James Dewar throughout the 70's and early 80's has completely mesmerized me and become easily one of my all-time favorites.
Robin and Jimi were good friends who jammed together back in the day. Robin actually wrote the title track of his first album “Twice removed from yesterday” but sadly Jimi died before that could happen. By the way if you like Robin’s slow rock blues, then you should check out “About to begin” and “In this place” you’ll love them.
I saw him live in '74 (06/19/1974) shortly after this came out. It was a club holding about 300-400 between playing in Detroit and going to Chicago. We were right up front. He was so loud it was like being in that old Blapunket ad with the guy in the chair getting blown away. AWESOME show.
I was fortunate enough to see Robin touring for Bridge of Sighs in 1974. Golden Earring opened for him. Possibly the best concert I ever experienced and I’m now 68 yrs old.
I'm a bit obsessed with this album lately , not only is the guitar playing spotless but the singer (James Dewar) has a very deep and powerful voice ("About to begin" is probably my favorite song on the album for the singing alone). Definetely worth an EPL.
@DX7036. You may already know this. Back in the 1960's, Scotsman James Dewar was the bass player in the backing band for a Scottish singer called Lulu. The band were dubbed "The Luvvers". In the late 1960's/early 1970's (?) James later played with another Scottish band called "Stone The Crows" who were fronted by powerhouse vocalist Maggie Bell. With regard to James' vocal performance on the track you mentioned "About To Begin". I read a tribute to James shortly after his untimely death. The journalist wrote something like "If you listen to James Dewar singing on this track and you are not moved or feel shivers down your spine, then check yourself for a pulse because you must be dead!" James Dewar was one of the finest rock vocalists I have ever heard. It's a shame he left this World too soon. Stay safe and well.
Trower is my favourite guitarist from the mid 1970's total genius , he is a health food guy shops at whole foods. Lisa Dewar and I use to communicate with each other .
Robin is amazing. I saw him in a little club in San Antonio and damn near lost my hearing. He brought his whole stadium rig for a little dance club. I had to leave early just so I could keep my hearing. It nearly broke my heart because I am a HUGE Trower fan. What sticks with me is that he never once looked at his guitar. He'd kind of mumble the name of the next song, close his eyes, tilt his head back, proceed to embarrass myself and my friends who had illusions about being able to play the guitar. After seeing Robin we all had the same thought: why do we even own a guitar?
I was in college when “Bridge of Sighs” came out, I listened to it all the time back then. Oddly enough, in the summer of 1974, I went to a show where Robin Trower opened for King Crimson. It was a great show!
I saw Robin in concert 5 or 6 years ago, and he is still playing incredible guitar. Such a great show, really wonderful tone. Masterful! Met him briefly after the show, such a nice man. The first great guitar player I picked up on after Hendrix died. Robin opened for Hendrix a couple of weeks before Jimi died.
I remember hearing this album for the first time in mid-late 70’s…a few years after it’s release. KSHE-95 in St Louis played it’s entirety before Corporate radio took over. Album was phenomenal. Bought a lot of early Trower with James Dewar on bass/vocals. Such a soulful voice.
Yes then the DJ had to be awakened and the broadcast both had to be cleared out from all the Smokey atmosphere! Remember it well - radio when came in over the air.
@@jettechdonatkins If I recall correctly (a bit hazy over the years : ) didn't Montrose open up for them? Opened with Space Station #5. A great night it was...
My dad showed me this song when I was about 13 and I became an instant massive fan, own all the records, seen him live 3 times...The works all from this song. That thick guitar tone with the pulsing Univibe phaser and James Dewar's sultry syrupy vocals was such a fantastic combo. Oh and when he plays Bridge of Sighs live the end becomes a 10 minute guitar solo. For a taste of his long soloing skills try Too Rolling Stoned from the BoS album. A groovy funk/rock tune with a roaring blues jam ending, absolute classic Trower track.
Thanks Dr. Doug! You have now discovered my lifelong musical heroes -- Rush and Robin Trower. Guitar Player Magazine named Bridge of Sighs their Album of the Year for 1974; it is a landmark for rock guitar fans. Rarely do you find as powerfully emotional a pairing of player and singer as Trower with James Dewar. Reg Isodore rounded out the magic... fantastic.
Saw Trower at Leicester Uni in 1980, Victims of the Fury tour. Fell in love with the late Jim Dewar's voice. I was about 3 feet away from Trower.... Great gig! Bridge of Sighs is a lovely album.
When one listens to this song, it really should be allowed to continue into the companion song, "In This Place." They go together just like "Driven To Tears"/"When The World Is Running Down, You Make the Best of What's Still Around" (The Police) and "Show Me"/"Poison Arrow" (ABC).
Agree, In This Place really needs to follow when you hear this (FM radio today doesn't do it much anymore), one of the best segues in rock music. Gives resolution. Thanks for the Trower review, Doug!
100% ... I came here to say that. Doug was wondering where the rest of the song is, but it is really meant to continue straight into the next track. Which is, of course, why there is such an abrupt stop while the wind sound is still raging; because the outro of one track is really the intro to the next.
In 1990 I saw Robin Trower live in some old movie theater while promoting his album “In The Line Of Fire”. I will NEVER forget the way he performed the intro of Bridge of Sighs. All alone on stage he layered multiple guitar tracks that were dark and beautiful, then he broke into the into of the song, then the rest of the band joined him on stage… It was simply better than I could have imagined, it took my breath away.
Seen Robin Trower in concert many times over the years. Fantastic tone, colour and texture. Even in recent years he has created and released excellent new songs.
One of my favorite albums from the 70s...the whole thing is great, not one bad song!! I had the 8-track played it every day. The music of the 70s ruled... and always will.
I can't tell you how influential this entire album has been to me. Yes, please listen to the entire album and I will be front and center with beer and popcorn and a large smile:)
When I saw him in the 80's, his index finger had developed a bend at the first knuckle from bending the string. Like a really sharp bend in an unnatural direction. Worked for him! This was the album that turned me on to rock. When it came out my oldest brother played it relentlessly. After hearing it a few times, something in me connected to the music in a new way and it all made perfect sense. Specifically during Day of the Eagle. 🤘🧙♂️🤘 Rich the Ancient Metal Beast
The Bridge of Sighs is a bridge in Venice. The enclosed bridge is made of white limestone, has windows with stone bars, passes over the Rio di Palazzo, and connects the New Prison to the interrogation rooms in the Doge's Palace. The Bridge was built in 1600 A.D. This is the same prison that has a sign over the entrance that says "Abandon all hope, ye who enter here". A quote from Dante's Inferno.
Saw Robin live March 15, 1975 at Winterland in S.F., (whilst indulging some terrific hallucinogens). This ENTIRE concert is available on youtube. Definitely worth the listen, and see some incredible guitar work by a rock master. Please note the brief introduction by legendary rock promoter, Bill Graham (RIP). Enjoy! With Peace and Love to All! (Michael)
@xltek1 During my college years from '72 - '75, I saw many great concerts at Winterland. Yes, Edgar Winter (Frankenstein), early Fleetwood Mac, Steve Miller, Eric Burton, Hocus Pocus, and many more I can't remember. How about you?
I bought this album when it came out, there was a single released from it of too rolling stoned. This album influenced me in a huge way. James Drewer is one of my heroes. I become a singing bass player because of him. Bridge of sighs cross fades into the in this place, you need to listen to the 2 tracks together. Thanks Doug you have done it again, great stuff.
Who thought that Scotland could produce so many Soulful/Bluesy singers. And then add the drums of Reg and guitar of Robin... Just an amazing track.... I've been listening to this album since it came out. Damn, nearly 50 years. I think Robin and Steve Hillage need more recognition. Weren't we lucky all of us that lived through the British guitarists of the 60's and 70's. We are lucky people.
Didn't read all the comments so if this has already been mentioned I apologize. Bridge of sighs is an actual place in Venice." The enclosed bridge is made of white limestone, has windows with stone bars, passes over the Rio di Palazzo, and connects the New Prison (Prigioni Nuove) to the interrogation rooms in the Doge's Palace. It was designed by Antonio Contino, whose uncle Antonio da Ponte designed the Rialto Bridge. It was built in 1600. The view from the Bridge of Sighs was the last view of Venice that convicts saw before their imprisonment. The bridge's English name was bequeathed by Lord Byron in the 19th century as a translation from the Italian "Ponte dei sospiri" from the suggestion that prisoners would sigh at their final view of beautiful Venice through the window before being taken down to their cells." Thus I believe the mood of the album and specifically it's title song is meant to capture how a prisoner would feel musically while passing over the bridge.
Great historical summary. I think you are right about the prisoners and their last look at Venice before banishment. Last glimpse of heaven before descending into hell. Thank you very much.
Robin Trower is an absolute grandmaster of guitar tone. I think that's what makes it especially enjoyable that he tends to go slow and carefully enunciated in his solo play compared to many other guitarists. His guitar tone just has so much gravity that it has an effect all on its own, and he gives that effect the right amount of space to get to you.
I'm so blessed to have seen Robin Trower and James Dewar (the band's signature and most excellent vocalist) live during the day. A new breakout solo artist from the legendary band Montrose was the opening act, Sammy Hagar.
There is a real Bridge of Sighs in Venice Italy. Crossing it, condemned prisoners would have their last view through a window of Venice and the outside world before they would be taken into darkness and then execution. I don’t know if Robin Trower knew about it when he wrote the song, but I think that he did, and i believe that it is an incredibly poetic evocation of dread.
I was fortunate to have seen Robin play live in a few intimate settings. I met him very briefly and he signed my Bridge of Sighs CD cover. Still have it. Spectacular musician and group of musicians. One of my go to albums. Review more Robin.
James Dewar was such an integral part of the Trower sound. His vocals were SO incredibly powerful. RIP James. You are missed ! I had Robin autograph my Bridge of Sighs album jacket at a show in DeLand, Fla. !!!! Still have it !!!!!!
James Dewar is one of the greatest voices in Rock. He also played with Maggie Bell in a band called Stone the Crows prior to joining up with Robin Trower.
I highly recommend checking out his whole catalog. Since Covid he hasn't toured the U.S, but if he does tour again go see him live. I've seen him 8 or more times, and it's always a great show.
Bridge of Sighs is the song that radio stations play a lot on Halloween.One interpretation of the song is that it is about the Gallows in historical England..King Crimson and Jethro Tull toured with Robin Trower in the seventies....His Strat is tuned down a full step which helps him get his unique sound...I have heard this song 100 times and still luv it..Play " DAYDREAM " by Robin Trower.My favorite Trower song..You will luv it.. Great video..
Thx Doug. This LP is still in my top 10. Robin and Jim were magic together. The wind at the end takes us into another beauty, "In This Place". This LP is 3-piece gold.
Bridge of Sighs - Punte Di Suspiria, is an actual bridge in Venice. It goes across a canal, from the Doge's prison to the place of execution. The bridge is fully enclosed to prevent prisoners attempting to escape. You can imagine why the bridge was so named, Bridge of Sighs, when you realise this was the last walk of the condemned man.
4 years ago will touring Venice my 2 youngest daughters and I walked the Bridge of Sighs. I had this song on knowing the history of it. Quit erring indeed.
On the album this song flows directly into the next song, "In This Place," which is a thematic continuation of the melencholy sound of this song. It helps flesh out the root of the sadness which has preceded it. To me, both of these songs should be listened to together and are essentially part 1 and 2 of a single song. Thus your desire at the end for it to keep going... because it does. Do yourself a favor and check it out.
Pre-covid I had tix to see Trower. Show got postponed 2x, then canceled... He was a bucket list player to see... I was bummed! Hope he tours again near me... James Dewar what a voice, while keeping the bass in the pocket, locking up with Bill Lourdan... !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Doug, check out his '76 live album... Was one of the constants on my turntable!!
This is one of his best tracks- I heard this in the early/mid 70's, very young and exploring different kinds of rock. The mood/texture is profound and so rich, the song engulfs you and keeps you captive. I consider this in the Jimi Hendrix school of Strat Players and is a absolute classic of that era- It is still amazing and holds up in these times! Thank you Doug for sharing with us
So one day, back in 1982, a friend of my roommate came over with his "homegrown" (he claimed, always) diggity-dank finest-kind and we all "lit up," as we used to say. My roommate put on this record, which, amazingly, I had never heard before. By the time The Day Of The Eagle ended, and those chimes came in... well, look out! but I was flying into some kind of space... and then Robin's guitar comes in... and then the slow drums... and I was... just... lost... for a short time there. It was amazing! I had been waiting for nearly 10 years for this song - after I discovered The Dark Side Of The Moon and its amazing song, Us And Them. I saw Robin perform at the Ventura Theatre (California) in the early 1990s. Excellent, of course. And then the good Doc, here, introduced me just recently to Devin Townsend's songs Funeral and Bastard, which also puts me into a similar mood. Thanks Doc!
This was my introduction to blues guitar which I fell in love with then along came Stevie Ray Vaughn....love them both and of course the large gauge strings to help with that amazing sound!! Love your reaction....
LMAO I love watching you react to these greats! Robin is one of my favorites.. Our first dance at our wedding was Sweet Wine of Love from his In City Dreams Album 1977..
Playing drums to this was an exercise in taste and restraint. For every Yes or Crimson song I learned, I always played along to stuff like this. Very visceral music that is timeless.
I always remember, I went to see Foreigner with Robin Trower opening. I had bought a Foreigner shirt at the beginning of the concert. After Trower played, I went during intermission and traded shirts.
The Bridge of Sighs connects the Doge's Palace in Venice with a prison over the canal, it's said it got its name from the sighs of prisoners looking through the bridge's windows as they were led off to their incarceration.
I gravitated toward headphone music in the 70-80s. My mom even enjoyed it when she noticed the absolute look of bliss when I was listening to music like this. This is a masterpiece.
No heavy strings or tuned down anything here. This is pure emotion and simple guitar playing that is unique to Robin. Anyone laying the Hendrix card doesn't get it. I'd say this is certainly virtuosic in that it is iconic and masterful in touch, tone, patience, style and depth of emotion. Robin has said in the past that he often would feel a lump in his throat when performing and I have no doubt that is certainly true. His emotional connection to his music is conveyed in every note and every passing bit of silence.
This has always been one of my favorite songs. After actually crossing the Bridge of Sighs (il Ponte di Sospiri) in Venice, Italy, the lyrics took on so much more meaning for me. For those that aren't familiar with the Bridge of Sighs, prisoners that were tried in Venice were initially held in an underground prison chambers inside the Doge's Palace. As the number of prisoners grew, the prison was expanded to a building across the canal named the New Prison, and the Bridge of Sighs was constructed to shuttle passengers directly from their trial into their cells.
Thank you so much Doug for featuring Robin Trower, one of my favorite players of all time, his feel and guitar tone are untouchable, and has inspired my playing for 40 years now. Please do listen to the rest of the Album, especially Day of the Eagle and too Rolling Stoned! Since it is Guitar month, another guitar master who inspired countless others is The Master, Uli Jon Roth, the father of the neo-classical form. I think you would especially appreciate his playing, considering your classic music background. My suggestion is his 2002 live Donnington performance of his Sky Overture, perhaps the greatest guitar piece that I have ever had the pleasure of experiencing.
thank you, Doug - was lucky enough to see Trower three times in my 56 years on earth - - - now you know the power of Trower ! now, break out the bong and listen to 'Too Rolling Stoned'
" . . . it wasn't long enough." I believe that is actually the point: the misery goes on, and you can't get rid of it, even after the song is over. The misery goes on. I'm 63, and this will always be to me the saddest song I've ever heard; GENIUS. Thank you for listening to one of my favorite songs ever. 💯👍
You ask where the rest of the song is; well the wind carries over onto the next track "In This Place". If you want a longer track to listen to, then "Too Rolling Stoned" is ideal. I "discovered" Robin Trower only a few years ago, and his music has consistently made it to my everyday play list. Jimmy's singing is so soulful and the albums they did together are very special. His newest album "No More Worlds To Conquer" (2022) is also nice; "I Will Always Be Your Shelter" is probably my favorite off of that album.
I still remember the first time I heard this song, many years after it was released. I was on an extended business trip to California in 1993 and was taking a weekend to drive down the Pacfic Coast Highway. A classic rock station I had found put this on and it was perfect - the sun, the wind, the scenery, the music. I still wish I could have that weekend again.
James Dewar had one of the most awesome voices in rock & roll. His passing was a massive loss.
Yes,seems like I need to go down to the fabric store and get more black satin
Being 71,I'm into my last decade . All the goners have left future rockers a treasure chest of goodies.ENJOY!!!
Pure soul 💖
I saw him in Frankie Miller's band at a local pub. Two amazing voices for the price of a pint of beer.
A lot of people don’t seem to realise that this song is about being in the “doghouse”
If God would grant me one singing voice .it would be Dewars ...Mad Dog 🐕 Sweeney NYC
There may be singers as good, but nobody sings better than James Dewar. I recommend listening to the whole album straight through.
On some good headphones!
One of the most underrated vocalists of the 70s. What a soulful voice
My first "favorite" singer! And band.
Yep, I always say Brad Delp is the best, but then I hear friggin' Dewar...
The live album from Stockholm is unbelievable
It's rare to see a Trower reaction vid, so I saw this and clicked on immediately. The whole album is perfection.
Glad you dig it Doug. This track gives me chills every time.
Trower was criticized for copying Hendrix’s sound but I think he expanded on it and improved it to create his own style and sound. And James Dewar was the secret weapon that made this album incredible. What a great and soulful singer! Together they created this masterpiece of Guitar Rock n Blues!
This song is a gut-punch. I can feel the wind and the pain and the sorrow. It is a masterpiece of emotion. I don't even want to hear other people's versions of it. Robin stuck the landing and that's all I need to know...or hear.
Not to mention Dewar’s heart-rending vocal.
Exists no better version of this masterpiece, just leave it alone.
I met James Dewar towards the end of his life when illness was taking its toll. I didn't recognise him as THE James Dewar until I spotted the bass in the corner of the room. A true great. Trower is also one of the greats and how tremendous to have them both in the same band. Puts the class in classic rock.
One of the great tunes of '74. Some of us went right out and bought the album.
Blew my Led Zeppelin mind. I enjoy your show and your personality.
Word.
I saw them in 1975 in Philadelphia, what attracted me was the live album, it was so dynamic!
I know I went out and bought it in ‘73.
Some of us went right out and bought a guitar.
One of the great 70's stoner albums. Uni-vibe masterpiece.
I went and bought a Uni-Vibe after this LP impressed me.Sadly I pawned & lost it.😢
Absolutely huge bluesey classic rock album, one of the finest from 1970s
Bridge, Caravan, for earth below, on and on.......even "new" albums hold magic for the senses. Robin has always had that special thing and even in his seventees he is still a force to be reckoned with. R.I.P. Mr Dewar, sometimes people are in the right place and Sh.... falls together, Decades of it with Robin and James, cant be replicated and we are the beneficiary of such amazing collaboration. How lucky we are and have been. L.L.Robin Trower!
The view from the Bridge of Sighs was the last view of Venice that convicts saw before their imprisonment. The bridge's English name was bequeathed by Lord Byron in the 19th century as a translation from the Italian "Ponte dei sospiri",[2][3] from the suggestion that prisoners would sigh at their final view of beautiful Venice through the window before being taken down to their cells.[4][5]
Actually the Bridge Of Sighs was what convicts walked before their execution…
Oddly enough I walked over "The Bridge Of Sighs" the first week of March, and thought of this song.
Funnily enough, Robin lifted the title from the name of a racehorse!
No way. What are you on, man?
@@billkant849 Having that memory at that time was a good inner moment, wasn’t it?
I did the same in Oxford, England. I thought of a favorite pop song that has since gone on to become my anthem in these senior years: “Itchy-koo Park” by The Small Faces. It’s all too beautiful …
I'm 54 and for so many years I knew relatively nothing about Robin Trower except this song and a couple of other minor hits. In the last five years of my life, that has changed greatly. Robin's output with James Dewar throughout the 70's and early 80's has completely mesmerized me and become easily one of my all-time favorites.
When this came out I first thought someone found some unreleased Hendrix. This entire album is absolute fire.
I’ve always seen this as the best album Hendrix never made
Robin and Jimi were good friends who jammed together back in the day. Robin actually wrote the title track of his first album “Twice removed from yesterday” but sadly Jimi died before that could happen. By the way if you like Robin’s slow rock blues, then you should check out “About to begin” and “In this place” you’ll love them.
Could be one of the most important album in rock music.
All killer, no filler.🎉
I can't get enough of Robin Trower! He's my favorite guitarist. ❤
I saw him live in '74 (06/19/1974) shortly after this came out. It was a club holding about 300-400 between playing in Detroit and going to Chicago. We were right up front. He was so loud it was like being in that old Blapunket ad with the guy in the chair getting blown away. AWESOME show.
I was fortunate enough to see Robin touring for Bridge of Sighs in 1974. Golden Earring opened for him. Possibly the best concert I ever experienced and I’m now 68 yrs old.
I'm a bit obsessed with this album lately , not only is the guitar playing spotless but the singer (James Dewar) has a very deep and powerful voice ("About to begin" is probably my favorite song on the album for the singing alone). Definetely worth an EPL.
My fvourite track is In This Place
@@Joolzratbag Yeah very cool song, it blends perfectly with Bridge of sighs
@@Joolzratbag agreed. I can never hear it just once. Every time I play it I’ll put it on repeat a few times. The album as a whole is fantastic.
Odd, played this for the first time in over 30yrs, a couple of weeks ago, blew my wife and I away!
@DX7036. You may already know this. Back in the 1960's, Scotsman James Dewar was the bass player in the backing band for a Scottish singer called Lulu. The band were dubbed "The Luvvers". In the late 1960's/early 1970's (?) James later played with another Scottish band called "Stone The Crows" who were fronted by powerhouse vocalist Maggie Bell.
With regard to James' vocal performance on the track you mentioned "About To Begin". I read a tribute to James shortly after his untimely death. The journalist wrote something like "If you listen to James Dewar singing on this track and you are not moved or feel shivers down your spine, then check yourself for a pulse because you must be dead!"
James Dewar was one of the finest rock vocalists I have ever heard. It's a shame he left this World too soon. Stay safe and well.
Trower is my favourite guitarist from the mid 1970's total genius , he is a health food guy shops at whole foods. Lisa Dewar and I use to communicate with each other .
Desert Island Album.
RIP James Dewar
Saw Trower & Dewar in 2010.
Outstanding!
Robin is amazing. I saw him in a little club in San Antonio and damn near lost my hearing. He brought his whole stadium rig for a little dance club. I had to leave early just so I could keep my hearing. It nearly broke my heart because I am a HUGE Trower fan.
What sticks with me is that he never once looked at his guitar. He'd kind of mumble the name of the next song, close his eyes, tilt his head back, proceed to embarrass myself and my friends who had illusions about being able to play the guitar. After seeing Robin we all had the same thought: why do we even own a guitar?
I was in college when “Bridge of Sighs” came out, I listened to it all the time back then.
Oddly enough, in the summer of 1974, I went to a show where Robin Trower opened for King Crimson.
It was a great show!
you lucky lucky bastidd!
I saw Robin in concert 5 or 6 years ago, and he is still playing incredible guitar. Such a great show, really wonderful tone. Masterful! Met him briefly after the show, such a nice man. The first great guitar player I picked up on after Hendrix died. Robin opened for Hendrix a couple of weeks before Jimi died.
So so underrated. Next should be Day of the Eagle from the same album.
His live album (recorded 1975 - released 1976) is almost perfect.
Agreed. Especially side 1, and the live version of Daydream defies description.
Daydream live! So appropriately titled!
1st record I ever bought.
That album... brilliant indeed.... and daydream is such a gem
Rock me Baby!
I remember hearing this album for the first time in mid-late 70’s…a few years after it’s release. KSHE-95 in St Louis played it’s entirety before Corporate radio took over. Album was phenomenal. Bought a lot of early Trower with James Dewar on bass/vocals. Such a soulful voice.
Love Dewar, may he rest in peace.
I saw this tour in St.Louis in '74
KSHE used to rule in the 70s and early 80s!
Yes then the DJ had to be awakened and the broadcast both had to be cleared out from all the Smokey atmosphere! Remember it well - radio when came in over the air.
@@jettechdonatkins If I recall correctly (a bit hazy over the years : ) didn't Montrose open up for them? Opened with Space Station #5. A great night it was...
My dad showed me this song when I was about 13 and I became an instant massive fan, own all the records, seen him live 3 times...The works all from this song. That thick guitar tone with the pulsing Univibe phaser and James Dewar's sultry syrupy vocals was such a fantastic combo. Oh and when he plays Bridge of Sighs live the end becomes a 10 minute guitar solo. For a taste of his long soloing skills try Too Rolling Stoned from the BoS album. A groovy funk/rock tune with a roaring blues jam ending, absolute classic Trower track.
Hard to beat James's voice. SO much soul.
The whole album is FANTASTIC!
Thanks Dr. Doug! You have now discovered my lifelong musical heroes -- Rush and Robin Trower.
Guitar Player Magazine named Bridge of Sighs their Album of the Year for 1974; it is a landmark for rock guitar fans. Rarely do you find as powerfully emotional a pairing of player and singer as Trower with James Dewar. Reg Isodore rounded out the magic... fantastic.
Saw Trower at Leicester Uni in 1980, Victims of the Fury tour. Fell in love with the late Jim Dewar's voice. I was about 3 feet away from Trower.... Great gig!
Bridge of Sighs is a lovely album.
Victims of the Fury is another great Trower album! Roads to Freedom is a favorite, as well as the title track.
My favorite Robin Trower song is *Gonna Be More Suspicious.* It's wah-wah wonderful!
@JJ8KK. "Confessin' Midnight" is the speaker buster from "For Earth Below".
When one listens to this song, it really should be allowed to continue into the companion song, "In This Place." They go together just like "Driven To Tears"/"When The World Is Running Down, You Make the Best of What's Still Around" (The Police) and "Show Me"/"Poison Arrow" (ABC).
Agree, In This Place really needs to follow when you hear this (FM radio today doesn't do it much anymore), one of the best segues in rock music. Gives resolution. Thanks for the Trower review, Doug!
100% ... I came here to say that. Doug was wondering where the rest of the song is, but it is really meant to continue straight into the next track. Which is, of course, why there is such an abrupt stop while the wind sound is still raging; because the outro of one track is really the intro to the next.
In 1990 I saw Robin Trower live in some old movie theater while promoting his album “In The Line Of Fire”. I will NEVER forget the way he performed the intro of Bridge of Sighs. All alone on stage he layered multiple guitar tracks that were dark and beautiful, then he broke into the into of the song, then the rest of the band joined him on stage…
It was simply better than I could have imagined, it took my breath away.
Seen Robin Trower in concert many times over the years. Fantastic tone, colour and texture.
Even in recent years he has created and released excellent new songs.
One of my favorite albums from the 70s...the whole thing is great, not one bad song!! I had the 8-track played it every day. The music of the 70s ruled... and always will.
Saw Robin in 2006 in Detroit when he was like 62 and again here in Chicago in 2017 IIRC and both times I was left blown away...he's incredible LIVE💯
I can't tell you how influential this entire album has been to me. Yes, please listen to the entire album and I will be front and center with beer and popcorn and a large smile:)
The Opeth cover of this is great. Actually what introduced me to this song!
100%. Fantastic Cover. This whole record is gold.
The slowest of burns. Absolutely fabulous!!!
When I saw him in the 80's, his index finger had developed a bend at the first knuckle from bending the string. Like a really sharp bend in an unnatural direction. Worked for him!
This was the album that turned me on to rock. When it came out my oldest brother played it relentlessly. After hearing it a few times, something in me connected to the music in a new way and it all made perfect sense. Specifically during Day of the Eagle.
🤘🧙♂️🤘
Rich the Ancient Metal Beast
The Bridge of Sighs is a bridge in Venice. The enclosed bridge is made of white limestone, has windows with stone bars, passes over the Rio di Palazzo, and connects the New Prison to the interrogation rooms in the Doge's Palace. The Bridge was built in 1600 A.D. This is the same prison that has a sign over the entrance that says "Abandon all hope, ye who enter here". A quote from Dante's Inferno.
Loved this back in the day. I like the singer, James Dewar (so did Rod Stewart).
Saw Robin live March 15, 1975 at Winterland in S.F., (whilst indulging some terrific hallucinogens). This ENTIRE concert is available on youtube. Definitely worth the listen, and see some incredible guitar work by a rock master. Please note the brief introduction by legendary rock promoter, Bill Graham (RIP). Enjoy! With Peace and Love to All! (Michael)
We were there too! Winterland was my favorite place to see Trower.
@xltek1 During my college years from '72 - '75, I saw many great concerts at Winterland. Yes, Edgar Winter (Frankenstein), early Fleetwood Mac, Steve Miller, Eric Burton, Hocus Pocus, and many more I can't remember. How about you?
Definitely one of the best songs ever.
I bought this album when it came out, there was a single released from it of too rolling stoned. This album influenced me in a huge way. James Drewer is one of my heroes. I become a singing bass player because of him. Bridge of sighs cross fades into the in this place, you need to listen to the 2 tracks together. Thanks Doug you have done it again, great stuff.
welcome to robin trower...he's a genius....
Who thought that Scotland could produce so many Soulful/Bluesy singers. And then add the drums of Reg and guitar of Robin... Just an amazing track.... I've been listening to this album since it came out. Damn, nearly 50 years. I think Robin and Steve Hillage need more recognition. Weren't we lucky all of us that lived through the British guitarists of the 60's and 70's. We are lucky people.
FISH RISING!!
Love this song. Would love to hear you play piano along with it! I think that would be awesome
One of the most atmospheric rock songs!
Gonna Be More Suspicious has always been one of my favorites.
Didn't read all the comments so if this has already been mentioned I apologize. Bridge of sighs is an actual place in Venice." The enclosed bridge is made of white limestone, has windows with stone bars, passes over the Rio di Palazzo, and connects the New Prison (Prigioni Nuove) to the interrogation rooms in the Doge's Palace. It was designed by Antonio Contino, whose uncle Antonio da Ponte designed the Rialto Bridge. It was built in 1600. The view from the Bridge of Sighs was the last view of Venice that convicts saw before their imprisonment. The bridge's English name was bequeathed by Lord Byron in the 19th century as a translation from the Italian "Ponte dei sospiri" from the suggestion that prisoners would sigh at their final view of beautiful Venice through the window before being taken down to their cells." Thus I believe the mood of the album and specifically it's title song is meant to capture how a prisoner would feel musically while passing over the bridge.
I had to scroll down far to see if someone had already pointed that out. Found ya. ☺
Great historical summary. I think you are right about the prisoners and their last look at Venice before banishment. Last glimpse of heaven before descending into hell. Thank you very much.
Robin Trower is an absolute grandmaster of guitar tone. I think that's what makes it especially enjoyable that he tends to go slow and carefully enunciated in his solo play compared to many other guitarists. His guitar tone just has so much gravity that it has an effect all on its own, and he gives that effect the right amount of space to get to you.
I'm so blessed to have seen Robin Trower and James Dewar (the band's signature and most excellent vocalist) live during the day. A new breakout solo artist from the legendary band Montrose was the opening act, Sammy Hagar.
There is a real Bridge of Sighs in Venice Italy. Crossing it, condemned prisoners would have their last view through a window of Venice and the outside world before they would be taken into darkness and then execution. I don’t know if Robin Trower knew about it when he wrote the song, but I think that he did, and i believe that it is an incredibly poetic evocation of dread.
Saw a show from the Bridge of Sighs tour at the San Bernadino Swing Auditorium. It was mind blowing. Trower's tone is second to none, phenomenal
I was there, too.
@@eeblatter long time ago brother
This song and album remain remarkably fresh even half a century later. A brilliant piece of music!
I was fortunate to have seen Robin play live in a few intimate settings. I met him very briefly and he signed my Bridge of Sighs CD cover. Still have it. Spectacular musician and group of musicians. One of my go to albums. Review more Robin.
James Dewar was such an integral part of the Trower sound. His vocals were SO incredibly powerful. RIP James. You are missed ! I had Robin autograph my Bridge of Sighs album jacket at a show in DeLand, Fla. !!!! Still have it !!!!!!
Your bumper is perfect. It's perfectly pleasant and perfectly short. I'll bet no one has ever clicked away because of it, ever. Great branding!
loved this album as a kid...
saw one of the loudest concerts I've ever heard
when saw him in Seattle
back in the 70s...
James Dewar is one of the greatest voices in Rock. He also played with Maggie Bell in a band called Stone the Crows prior to joining up with Robin Trower.
I highly recommend checking out his whole catalog. Since Covid he hasn't toured the U.S, but if he does tour again go see him live. I've seen him 8 or more times, and it's always a great show.
Bridge of Sighs is the song that radio stations play a lot on Halloween.One interpretation of the song is that it is about the Gallows in historical England..King Crimson and Jethro Tull toured with Robin Trower in the seventies....His Strat is tuned down a full step which helps him get his unique sound...I have heard this song 100 times and still luv it..Play " DAYDREAM " by Robin Trower.My favorite Trower song..You will luv it.. Great video..
Thx Doug. This LP is still in my top 10. Robin and Jim were magic together. The wind at the end takes us into another beauty, "In This Place". This LP is 3-piece gold.
I remember watching a lavalamp while listening to this song back in the 70's. Thanks for bringing back some fond memories💕
Bridge of Sighs - Punte Di Suspiria, is an actual bridge in Venice. It goes across a canal, from the Doge's prison to the place of execution. The bridge is fully enclosed to prevent prisoners attempting to escape. You can imagine why the bridge was so named, Bridge of Sighs, when you realise this was the last walk of the condemned man.
4 years ago will touring Venice my 2 youngest daughters and I walked the Bridge of Sighs. I had this song on knowing the history of it. Quit erring indeed.
On the album this song flows directly into the next song, "In This Place," which is a thematic continuation of the melencholy sound of this song. It helps flesh out the root of the sadness which has preceded it. To me, both of these songs should be listened to together and are essentially part 1 and 2 of a single song. Thus your desire at the end for it to keep going... because it does. Do yourself a favor and check it out.
Pre-covid I had tix to see Trower. Show got postponed 2x, then canceled... He was a bucket list player to see... I was bummed!
Hope he tours again near me...
James Dewar what a voice, while keeping the bass in the pocket, locking up with Bill Lourdan... !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Doug, check out his '76 live album... Was one of the constants on my turntable!!
Had the opportunity to see Robin last year at a small theatre in Glenside, PA. Awesome experience indeed!
You should definitely react to the rest. You will especially love "Too Rolling Stoned." That's THE BEST song on the album.
This is one of his best tracks- I heard this in the early/mid 70's, very young and exploring different kinds of rock. The mood/texture is profound and so rich, the song engulfs you and keeps you captive. I consider this in the Jimi Hendrix school of Strat Players and is a absolute classic of that era- It is still amazing and holds up in these times! Thank you Doug for sharing with us
Stratocaster, Marshall, Univibe. Can't go wrong with those.
So one day, back in 1982, a friend of my roommate came over with his "homegrown" (he claimed, always) diggity-dank finest-kind and we all "lit up," as we used to say. My roommate put on this record, which, amazingly, I had never heard before. By the time The Day Of The Eagle ended, and those chimes came in... well, look out! but I was flying into some kind of space... and then Robin's guitar comes in... and then the slow drums... and I was... just... lost... for a short time there. It was amazing! I had been waiting for nearly 10 years for this song - after I discovered The Dark Side Of The Moon and its amazing song, Us And Them.
I saw Robin perform at the Ventura Theatre (California) in the early 1990s. Excellent, of course.
And then the good Doc, here, introduced me just recently to Devin Townsend's songs Funeral and Bastard, which also puts me into a similar mood. Thanks Doc!
This was my introduction to blues guitar which I fell in love with then along came Stevie Ray Vaughn....love them both and of course the large gauge strings to help with that amazing sound!! Love your reaction....
LMAO I love watching you react to these greats! Robin is one of my favorites.. Our first dance at our wedding was Sweet Wine of Love from his In City Dreams Album 1977..
Playing drums to this was an exercise in taste and restraint. For every Yes or Crimson song I learned, I always played along to stuff like this. Very visceral music that is timeless.
I always remember, I went to see Foreigner with Robin Trower opening. I had bought a Foreigner shirt at the beginning of the concert. After Trower played, I went during intermission and traded shirts.
The Bridge of Sighs connects the Doge's Palace in Venice with a prison over the canal, it's said it got its name from the sighs of prisoners looking through the bridge's windows as they were led off to their incarceration.
There is just no describing the tone on Robin's guitar on this song. Beautiful comes to mind.
I've owned this album since 1975! Listened to it hundreds of times.....it's a classic!
I gravitated toward headphone music in the 70-80s. My mom even enjoyed it when she noticed the absolute look of bliss when I was listening to music like this. This is a masterpiece.
No heavy strings or tuned down anything here. This is pure emotion and simple guitar playing that is unique to Robin. Anyone laying the Hendrix card doesn't get it. I'd say this is certainly virtuosic in that it is iconic and masterful in touch, tone, patience, style and depth of emotion. Robin has said in the past that he often would feel a lump in his throat when performing and I have no doubt that is certainly true. His emotional connection to his music is conveyed in every note and every passing bit of silence.
This has always been one of my favorite songs. After actually crossing the Bridge of Sighs (il Ponte di Sospiri) in Venice, Italy, the lyrics took on so much more meaning for me. For those that aren't familiar with the Bridge of Sighs, prisoners that were tried in Venice were initially held in an underground prison chambers inside the Doge's Palace. As the number of prisoners grew, the prison was expanded to a building across the canal named the New Prison, and the Bridge of Sighs was constructed to shuttle passengers directly from their trial into their cells.
Thank you so much Doug for featuring Robin Trower, one of my favorite players of all time, his feel and guitar tone are untouchable, and has inspired my playing for 40 years now. Please do listen to the rest of the Album, especially Day of the Eagle and too Rolling Stoned!
Since it is Guitar month, another guitar master who inspired countless others is The Master, Uli Jon Roth, the father of the neo-classical form. I think you would especially appreciate his playing, considering your classic music background.
My suggestion is his 2002 live Donnington performance of his Sky Overture, perhaps the greatest guitar piece that I have ever had the pleasure of experiencing.
thank you, Doug - was lucky enough to see Trower three times in my 56 years on earth - - - now you know the power of Trower ! now, break out the bong and listen to 'Too Rolling Stoned'
Great track! I crossed the bridge to the prison in Venice humming this tune in 07. Love Trower !
Love Robin and he is still gigging in fine form🎸🤘🏻 My favourite track is Day of the Eagle btw.
One of the very best British Blues Guitarists ever.
I love when you play along with the song!
So bluesy! 🎶🎶 I love "Caledonia".
I saw Robin Trower Bridge Of Sighs tour in 74, I had no idea who he was, but he blew everybody away.
" . . . it wasn't long enough." I believe that is actually the point: the misery goes on, and you can't get rid of it, even after the song is over. The misery goes on. I'm 63, and this will always be to me the saddest song I've ever heard; GENIUS. Thank you for listening to one of my favorite songs ever. 💯👍
You ask where the rest of the song is; well the wind carries over onto the next track "In This Place". If you want a longer track to listen to, then "Too Rolling Stoned" is ideal.
I "discovered" Robin Trower only a few years ago, and his music has consistently made it to my everyday play list. Jimmy's singing is so soulful and the albums they did together are very special. His newest album "No More Worlds To Conquer" (2022) is also nice; "I Will Always Be Your Shelter" is probably my favorite off of that album.
I was 14 when this came out.
We were blown away!
Same Stephen
I was in middle school when this came out.
Loved it ever since!
I'm so pleased to see Robin here, one of my all-time favorites. One of the first pedals I purchased was a Fulltone Deja-Vibe :)
Great great tune that I've listened to since I was a young kid in the early 70s. Even my punk rock/riot grrrl/goth wife loves this one.
Trower is on the verge of being forgotten. But the music is timeless. Trower needs to be on the list of all-time greatest guitarists.
I still remember the first time I heard this song, many years after it was released. I was on an extended business trip to California in 1993 and was taking a weekend to drive down the Pacfic Coast Highway. A classic rock station I had found put this on and it was perfect - the sun, the wind, the scenery, the music. I still wish I could have that weekend again.