Eric Clapton - Complete Clapton

Eric Clapton

Released : October 08, 2007

Label: Polydor
Reviewed by: Paul Mitchell
Rating: 7/10

Eric "Slow Hand" Clapton has released this retrospective CD in tandem with his magnificent autobiography, and this is a collection that everyone should have - it is as simple as that.

There is no point gilding the lily, no point making an in depth analysis - from Cream's psychedelic beginnings with "I Feel Free" and "White Room" (complete with "tired sparrows"), through to his unrequited love song about

George Harrison's partner at the time ("Layla") and through his individual grief for his young son (the beautiful "Tears In Heaven"), this double CD oozes class.

Mr Clapton's guitar playing is obviously without question, but he is also a fantastic vocalist who is able to show all facets of his personality.  Take Layla, for instance - his visceral vocal in the original is worlds apart from

the gentle, yet slinky Unplugged version, enabling the versions to stand apart.

His heart lies in the Blues, shown in the Live version of Crossroads (I defy you to resist the urge to tap your feet) and his later work with B.B. King amongst other dignitaries of the genre) but he can also rock, too.

Admittedly, there are some weak links here ("My Father's Eyes" being the main culprit) but this CD is a must-have.