Genre Blues Rock
Evaluation It seems that Eric Clapton has been around as long as time itself. His career now spans 5 decades. He and Aretha (see earlier review) should get together sometime. What a duo that would be. But I digress. Eric Clapton is without a doubt one of the greatest blues guitarists of all time. I can’t tell you how many times I sat in my room playing along to his records, this one particularly. This album was a mega hit back in the 70’s and it is easy to see why. The songs have a quality about them that is very difficult to describe, though I will do my best. Clapton’s voice of course is unmistakable but it is his guitar playing that makes him the king. Here is a list of the hi-lights of the CD:
1) Motherless Children - The slide guitar part on this song is one of the classic slide guitar parts of all time, maybe next to the Allman Brothers Ramblin’ Man. His smooth vocal style compliments his playing perfectly. It’s sometimes hard to understand the words when Clapton sings because of his style and kind of muddled rolling speech, but it’s a minor point. This guy could sing about chickens in a hamper and still sound great. This song is no exception. While not a single, this song got tons of airplay. If you like just plain smooth and cool then this song has it.
2) Willie And The Hand Jive - This song shows the range of styles Clapton is capable of. His version of this goes beyond cool. Again, not a single but tons of air play on the FM dial.
3) I Shot The Sheriff - The old Bob Marley tune that he does better than even Marley himself. This was Clapton’s first number one song and finally got him the recognition he deserved. If you like Reggae with a Clapton twist then you will love this tune. Clapton sings it almost tongue in cheek. I love the humor in his vocals, but then again I may be the only one who hears it.
4) Let It Grow - Just a beautiful song. I really wish this had finished the album, oh but you can’t have everything. The ending on this is pure 70’s showmanship. They don’t make songs like this anymore.
Bottom Line: If you’ve never heard this album and like great guitar playing, a smooth style, good songs and want to know what everyone was crazy about 30 years ago then this album is a must have. It’s a little subtle at times, some people say too subtle, which has been the only knock on this album that I have heard, but if you don’t need to be knocked over the head with your music then I am sure, given that you’ve said yes to the above, you will enjoy this timeless classic.