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vibechic writes:

4of 5 Stars

CLAPTON CHRONICLES- THE BEST OF ERIC CLAPTON, (Reprise 1999.)

Review: Stephanie Lynne Thorburn- Freelance Music Writer.

R.S. Archive- * My 'Rate & Review', 4/5 Stars.

The Clapton Chronicles suggests a 'back to basics' concept of recorded anthology. This title also implies more profound connotations such as the almost biblical notions of reverence, which have historically centred on Clapton's sublime musicianship. The purpose of this chronicle's orator must be to carry its message of musical wisdom forward to future audiences, executing clarity of vision that speaks beyond the new millennium. Undoubtedly Eric Clapton's work has already achieved this..

Okay, so the 'best of' compilation on CD may not have included enough classic blues material, omitting some firm personal favourites for many Clapton enthusiasts found in the blues tribute album 'From The Cradle'. The Warner video version is perhaps in essence a better medium though, conveying powerful insights into the fundamental semiotics that suggest how we the audience have loved to view Clapton and how he perceives himself. The touching understatement of 'Running On Faith' in Unplugged mode demonstrates an inclusive relationship with his audience and the addition of 'Motherless Child' draws from biographic themes of self-discovery that so motivate his work. 'Layla', 'Bad Love' and 'Pretending' form a stock of songs in rock'n roll classic genre on the 'Chronicles' CD, whilst perhaps the great strength found in the imagery of the video version is that it encapsulates plenty of Clapton's endearing trait of 'beauty derived from honesty', a phrase captured in a review in Vanity Fair, (Music Issue, November 2000).

The inclusion of 'Blue Eyes Blue' casts Eric towards a final destination in his role from the soundtrack of Runaway Bride. Once again religion features as a symbol in this track and reminds us of his peace found through personal faith and the sincerity of his work in the field of detoxification. In a similar vein to contemporaries such as The Rhythm Kings, to use a literary cliché, Eric has in effect arrived 'full circle' back to his roots where in each performance he can now know and fall in love with the guitar as if for the first time. It is the unmistakable earnestness and intensity of this perfectly reformed Renaissance man that can still be witnessed in his live performances today. SLT.

Jun 10, 2008 06:37:06