Album Review
Rarely has any single record album induced such a shift in popular music.
Blues Breakers With Eric Clapton not only catapulted Clapton to the helm of the burgeoning British blues-rock scene, it likewise made significant noise on the other side of the Atlantic--where the blues had literally been born, bred, and buttered. In addition to Mayall (guitar/vocals) and Clapton (guitar/vocals), this incarnation of the Blues Breakers utilises the talents of John McVie (bass) and Hughie Flint (drums). As a combo, this band was able to reinvent the American blues for a fresh audience whose ultimate response would give rise to subgenres such as heavy metal and other roots-related rock. While their contributions prove immeasurable, they are likewise sadly eclipsed by that of Clapton. In retrospect--unlike many of the other revolutionary changes occurring in pop music circa the mid-60s--the Blues Breakers are infinitely more subtle in their attack. Their most obvious weapon is the advantage of documenting in-the-studio material from their live performance set. Clapton needed precious little time to gestate the blues. His ability to express himself is uncanny, as if he were a man twice--if not three times--his age. The passionate inflections and unforgettable impressions Clapton makes upon these grooves swiftly catapulted him into both international exposure as well as legendary guitar rock idol status.
Blues Breakers with Eric Clapton is an invaluable touchstone into primordial pre-metal rock & roll.
--Lindsay Planer, All Music Guide
CD Description
1966's BLUESBREAKERS WITH ERIC CLAPTON is full of portent, as some of its participants would become superstars after its release. Future Cream guitarist Eric Clapton was highly rated enough in the UK blues-rock scene to score second billing, but it wasn't until this recording that he'd had the opportunity to truly stretch out in the studio and show off his awesome soloing skills. Clapton's earlier stint in the Yardbirds had found his ideas largely shouted down by pop-oriented producer/manager Giorgio Gomelsky, but here kindred spirit/producer Mike Vernon simply let Clapton play as he wished. The sympathetic rhythm section of Hughie Flint and future Fleetwood Mac founder John McVie, along with Mayall's best-ever vocals and organ, make BLUESBREAKERS WITH ERIC CLAPTON oneof the all-time great British blues albums.
