Read through the coding of British guitarist Robin Trower’s new live album “RT@RO-08” and you’ll see it is, in fact, a document of his March 2008 concert at the Royal Oak Music Theatre.

“It was a place we enjoyed playing the last time we were there, so when the opportunity came to record (the live album), that was a factor,” says Trower, 64, who came to prominence as the original guitarist for Procol Harum before going solo in 1973. “There were a lot of songs in the set that had never been recorded live, and it was our usually really good performance.

“That’s what you want to capture, really. We have a very high standard every night. We really try to get something going.”

“RT@RO-08” isn’t Trower’s only release this year, however. He’s also recorded a new studio album, “What Lies Beneath,” that features 11 new songs, many co-written with bassist Livingston Brown, who also produced the album. Trower calls it “probably the most me album I’ve ever made,” tapping into an ethereal flavor the mixes with the blues and rock styles he’s become known for.

“It has a lot of who I am as a creative musician,” notes Trower, adding that he has “almost enough material for another

album,” too. “I think the music you make

is the gift you’re born with. Composition,

being able to write and to create music,

is what it’s all about.

“That’s why I thought this title for the

album was appropriate. Your creativity,

that’s really where it comes from — from

within.”



Robin Trower and Slight Return perform Saturday (June 20) at the Royal Oak Music Theatre, 318 W. Fourth St. Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets are $35 general admission, $49.50 reserved. Call (248) 399-2980 or visit www.royaloakmusictheatre.com.