One of the great British blues-rock guitarists Robin Trower filigreed into international consciousness with Procol Harum, playing on that proto-prog group's first five critically lauded albums. In 1973, he started putting out records under his own name, hitting big with 1974's Bridge of Sighs. The title track is one of those ponderous, ominous songs that blot out the sun with a righteous despondency—a paragon of blues-rock that’s far beyond the reach of the Black Keys and their ilk. (See also “It's Only Money” from For Earth Below.) Trower's snarling yet aerated tone and laid-back fluidity lend his tunes an expansiveness that elevates them above most in this genre. No less a legend than Robert Fripp counts Trower (now 70) as an inspiration and mentor. Don't be surprised if Trower honors his own hero—Jimi Hendrix—tonight. by Dave Segal