Brian Robertson – Diamonds and Dirt

Releasedate: 28-03-2011; Label: SPV/Steamhammer
By: Sabine van Gameren

Brian “Robbo” David Robertson is a Scottish rock guitarist, best known for his work with Thin Lizzy and Motörhead. Anno 2011 he decided to make a solo album and it is called “Diamonds and Dirt”.

As expected Brian brought in a star team to join his band. The drummer comes from Europe, Nalley from Therion joins on bass and Leif Sundin (Msg) supplies vocals to this release. Unfortunately this line up is not the guarantee for an exciting release as it seem as it all seems quite basic and calm. Here and there some interesting solo’s are included but this album does not make a big impression. “Diamonds and Dirt” have a bluesy edge and lacks on highlights, the album just goes by and doesn’t work with tensions. It is Brian’s own guitar additions that mostly safe the music. Maybe the expectations were a little higher on him.
Good for the Thin Lizzy fans, there are cover songs of that band included and although it were not the most known songs that are chosen, a bit of recognition helps to keep the album exciting.
The blues fan may enjoy listening to the album, but don’t expect to find some inventive music here. It’s good to enjoy every once and a while but it is not a top album.

Line Up:
Brian Robertson – vocals, guitar, bass and keyboards
Leif Sundin – vocals
Nalley Pahlsson – bass and backing vocals
Ian Haugland – drums and percussion
Liny Wood – backing vocals

Tracklist: 01. Diamonds And Dirt 02. Passion 03. It’s Only Money 04. Mail Box 05. Running Back 06. Texas Wind 07. Devil In My Soul 08. Do It Till We Drop (Drop It) 09. Blues Boy 10. That’s All…! 11. 10 Miles To Go On A 9 Mile Road 12. Running Back (slow version) 13. Ain’t Got No Money

Links:
Brian Robertson Official