Clapton Maturing With Age

By Lauren Farnham

On October 16, 2010

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Some musicians produce music well into their later years, and many times it's not considered to be as good as their early work. Few however, are doing it well into their 60's. Eric Clapton is one of these musicians. On September 28th he released, Clapton. This album is a more mature and sober sound from Clapton.

Clapton says of the album, "This album wasn't what it was intended to be at all," he states that "It's actually better than it was meant to be because, in a way, I just let it happen. It's an eclectic collection of songs that weren't really on the map—and I like it so much because if it's a surprise to the fans, that's only because it's a surprise to me, as well."

This overall successful album shows how Clapton has matured over the past few decades and developed his sound. The album features one new song co-written by Clapton entitled, "Run Back to your Side." This song has an enjoyable riff which strangely resembles "After Midnight." The album has an eclectic mix of blues, rock n' roll and other world music which Eric is known to incorporate in his tunes. Eric can still play a mean guitar and proves it on a strong opening track, a cover of Melvin Jackson's "Travelin' Alone." The album strums along at parts with more mellow tunes and a surprising performance with Sheryl Crow which will probably not impress most Clapton fans.

Eric Clapton is probably best known for his solo work and hit songs like "Crossroads" or "Round Midnight." He was also a member of the popular bands Cream, The Yardbirds and Derek & the Dominoes. Clapton is the only person who has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame three times. He was inducted for his solo work, and being in both Cream and the Yardbirds.

Throughout his career Clapton has been a rock n' roll artist with a major influence on others. He is also accredited by some to bringing reggae to the mainstream with his cover of Bob Marley's "I Shot the Sheriff." His most well known song is probably "Layla" and on his most recent album he has stayed true to his roots, but perhaps grown slightly softer with age.

The tracklisting is

as follows:

Clapton:

"Travelin Alone"

"Rocking Chair"

"River Runs Deep"

"Judgment Day"

"How Deep is the Ocean"

"My Very Good Friend of the Milkman"

"Can't Hold Out Much Longer"

"That's No Way to Get Along"

"Everything Will be Alright"