It is a common refrain that challenging times breed creativity. It seems Rich Robinson, guitarist with The Black Crowes, is a case in point.

After 17 years in the band he formed with his brother Chris back in 1984, The Black Crowes went on indefinite hiatus in 2001. Great tension had developed between various factions in the band, including the two brothers, and it was with some relief that Rich Robinson was able to walk away. He formed a new band which eventually became his solo project.

In 2005, he would reunite first with Chris and then the rest of the Crowes line-up to reform and record new material. At the same time he was facing a difficult divorce (is there any other kind?) and, as with the band's 2001 break-up, he found solace in his solo work. The new incarnation of The Black Crowes continues to prosper but Robinson is also carving out a niche as a solo artist.

His debut album, 'Paper', was released in 2004 and, after patching things up with the Crowes and his troubles at home, followed it with 'Through a Crooked Sun' in October 2011. The solo material is faithful to his rock roots with the Black Crowes and is proving popular.

Mixed reviews for 'Paper' have been superseded by a much warmer welcome for the melodic melancholy of 'Through a Crooked Sun', as Robinson has nurtured a maturing sound that better fits his voice and outlook, with less of a hard rock edge.

Rich Robinson's UK winter tour kicks off in Wrexham on 9th February, followed by gigs in Leeds, Glasgow, York and Bristol, before the final date at the Islington Academy on 16th February 2012.

We have tickets available now for all dates, priced from £13, rising to £16 for the London gig.