Robin Trower – For Earth Below (50th Anniversary Edition). A Personal Reflection and Review
LINK TO FULL VIDEO
Sometimes an album enters your life in a way that imprints it forever on your soul. For me, Robin Trower’s For Earth Below became part of my DNA during the legendary Blizzard of '78, snowed in with friends and in a, let’s say, enhanced state of mind. That surreal, otherworldly atmosphere outside the window mirrored the dreamy, otherworldly sounds of this album spinning inside. It was magical. And it still is.
The Music & The Trilogy
For Earth Below is the third in what I consider the essential Robin Trower trilogy, following Twice Removed from Yesterday and Bridge of Sighs. While the first two albums have a more atmospheric, dreamy quality, For Earth Below leans into harder rock and blues, while still keeping Trower’s signature psychedelic touch.
The personnel shift—bringing in drummer Bill Lordan—adds to that punchier feel. But the magic ingredient remains: the incredible vocals and bass playing of James Dewar. His voice is one of the most soulful, emotionally stirring blues-rock voices I’ve ever heard. Masculine, gravelly, but deeply moving—he defines the emotional core of these early Trower albums.
Highlights from the album include:
Shame the Devil – A powerful opener.
It’s Only Money – Dreamy, atmospheric, classic Trower.
Confessin’ Midnight – Hard-driving rock.
Alethea – A longtime fan favorite.
For Earth Below – A beautiful, dreamy closer.
The 50th Anniversary Edition: Packaging & Sound
This new 50th Anniversary release is the best-looking version this album has ever had. Sturdy matte gatefold, beautiful artwork, nice custom labels, and great inner sleeves. The package is top-notch for the price (~$34).
However, when it comes to sound:
The original mix is remastered and included. It sounds fine—competent, clean—but doesn’t dramatically improve on past pressings (Friday Music, originals, etc.).
The stereo remix (on the second disc) offers minor differences: a few extra guitar licks, extended fades, subtle changes—but nothing truly revelatory.
Both versions appear to stem from digital transfers, not pure analog, so audiophiles seeking that elusive “next level” of sound may not find it here.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been collecting the Trower 50th anniversary series (Twice Removed, Bridge of Sighs), this is a solid continuation—beautiful packaging, decent sound, and a respectful celebration of an often-overlooked album. But for hardcore audiophiles or those hoping for a major sonic upgrade? This likely won’t blow you away.
For me, the emotional connection to For Earth Below will always make it special. It’s part of who I am. And sometimes, that’s more important than the minutiae of mastering.
👉 Recommended for:
Longtime Robin Trower fans
Newcomers who want an affordable, attractive edition
Anyone who appreciates 70s blues-psych rock with heart
👉 Not recommended for:
Audiophiles seeking the best possible sound quality from vinyl
