"Why this package was released is beyond me. Other than for nostalgia's sake, I suggest the hard-core fans pass on this one. Disc 1, featuring James Dewar is worthwhile even though the sound quality borders on 'bootleg' quality. Disc 2 featuring the 'trio' is a frisbee, you can't really understand the vocalist, he sort of mumbles his way through. Blank booklet is a shocker."
28 years beyond Hendrix.
Robert Quem | Belleville, Illinois | 07/01/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"30 June 2001 If you like the 1975 Chrysalis live album then please check out "This Was Now 74-98". It's an amazing 2 CD set. It proves that Trower is an exception to the rule that hotshot guitarists tend to cool off and slow down after their 20's and 30's. I bought the album for the 74 stuff and yet fell head over heels in love with the 98 stuff. Truly a killer disc---despite the fact that the Dewar sound-alike pales in comparison to our beloved brother with the one-of-a-kind soulful voice. I won't tell you which are my favorite songs on the 98 disc because I want you to discover all of them without having been influenced. However, there is an instrumental that will probably make you cry because the sound and performance are truly sublime. As for the 74 disc: All of it rocks and there is no singing by Robin (!)."
Robin is great live
jeff a coil | greenwood, indiana United States | 04/21/2000
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Robin never stops amazing me. And yes, Livingston Brown is not that good of a singer, but Robin's sweet guitar makes up for it. This cd set is great but dont expect the best vocal range on the 98' cd. Of course, cd#2, with Jimmy Dewar on vocals, is absolutely awesome with the exception of bridge of sighs, halfway thru the vocals did not come thru, but once again, Robin and his amazing fingers do the justice. I highly recommend this cd even so. Rock on Robin!"
Like a fine wine
P. E. Fischer | Evansville IN USA | 01/09/2006
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Buy this cd... period. 'Secret Place' and 'Bridge Of Sighs'on the '98 cd are incredible. I first saw and heard Robin in Nov.73 when he was opening for Edgar Winter as 'Twice Removed From Yesterdat'just came out. He stunned the crowd-only a few people had ever heard of him and nobody expected this! I got the album the next day and been a fan ever since. Love James Dewar. Robin and Brian Auger are my two favorite Brits and both going strong."