I enjoyed Robbo's style of playing with his tenure at Thin Lizzy in the 70's, but did not hear much of the man since. He looked a bit clapped out on a DVD dedicated to Phil Lynott, which was shot a few years back and one wondered whether 'Diamonds and Dirt', his first solo effort consisting of tapes of unreleased recordings, was merely an attempt to boost his pension fund. This album, it transpires, is full of surprises!

The first big surprise is the fact that Robbo CAN sing! The opening track (and the title track of the album) features Robbo harmonizing beautifully with a lady by the name of Liny Wood, producing a track that would be an instant radio hit. While the remainder of the album may not be as radio friendly, it is as good, if not better.

Robbo's voice fits nicely on his Lizzy renditions ('It's Only Money' and 'Running Back') while the unreleased Lizzy track 'Blues Boy' is a stonker! The remaining ten tracks (three of them Frankie Miller songs) are no less spectacular. Robbo's guitar playing throughout the album is supreme and leaves the listener in ecstasy as the final tones fade away...

Chris Laney's touch in the production seat can be felt, with Sören Linberg and Robbo assisting. The result is arguably the most surprising album of the year: a fresh sound with the 70's classic rock feel. Superb.

*****

Review by Nick van der Meurlen