
What hasn’t this legendary guitarist done. From collaborations with Cream and Blind Faith to his swooning of George Harrison’s wife to absorbent amounts of alcohol induced recordings, recovering to the point of getting his life back on track by collecting and driving beautiful sport cars. Eric Clapton has released his 22nd album ‘Meanwhile’. One of the fourteen new songs is an amazing rendition of 'Moon River' by Clapton and Jeff Beck. Like Eric, Jeff was a guitar virtuoso and gear head when it came to cars. Its like they were long lost brothers - each raising the bar on each others guitar licks. Also on this star studded release is American bluegrass and country singer-songwriter Bradley Walker with their tribute to Willie Nelson and a stirring rendition of ‘Always On My Mind’ with the Transatlantic Session Band featuring guitarist Ronnie Wood. Good buddy Van Morrison is featured on ‘The Rebels’ and ‘Stand And Deliver’ both written by the iconic Irish singer who also plays the sax on ‘This Has Gotta Stop’, a catchy song that includes singer Sharon White (Bryan Ferry, Annie Lennox) and the highly coveted drums of Steve Gadd.
I was surprised to find a couple of standouts, one of which is a version of Charlie Chaplin’s ‘Smile', a song that Clapton opened his 1974 tour with and a song co-written by the late comedian Richard Lewis called ‘Misfortune’. Beautifully done and suitable for an ending track. This collection of songs and artists show how much Clapton is respected in the industry and with his fans.
Gary James
Host of ‘The Night Show’
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