Eric Clapton [Audio CD]

Out of print in the U.S.! Digitally remaster reissue of Slow hand's first solo album, originally released in 1970. This album found Clapton establishing his own style as vocalist and songwriter instead of the 'Guitar God' he had been labeled as since his days with John Mayall, the Yardbirds and Cream. Thankfully, he managed to retain that nickname and forge his own style. Features musical assistance from Delaney Bramlett, Bobby Whitlock, Bobby Keys, Leon Russell, Jim Gordon and others. 11 tracks. Universal. The album that launched Clapton's solo career takes most of its cues from his then-recent collaboration with Delaney and Bonnie. In fact, Delaney produced the album, which explains its loose, jam-session feel that sometimes finds Clapton battling against a cast that includes guest stars Stephen Stills, Sonny Curtis, Rita Coolidge, Leon Russell, and Delaney and Bonnie. Yet this is the album on which Clapton established himself as a forceful singer, and it also produced some of his most enduring classics, including "Blues Power", "After Midnight", and "Let It Rain". -- Daniel Durchholz