I have little doubt that this was the album that Clapton has wanted to make for some time. Credit is due to Reprise to facilitate the record’s making despite its likely limited sales appeal. I also suspect it’s been lying around for a while waiting to be released but that’s another story…

The big questions are: Is Clapton up to the task and is Johnson’s music given the artistic and production treatment is deserves. The answer to both questions is YES. Both vocally and instrumentally Clapton excels on a record that is beautifully arranged and produced. But more than that, he performs with love and respect for this major musical figure. The support instrumental performances by Steve Gadd (drums), Nathan East (bass), Billy Preston (Hammond, piano), Andy Faithweather Low (guitars), Doyle Bramhall II (guitars), and Jerry Portnoy (harmonica) are fabulous and go a long to providing that final important touch. Tracks include Come On In My Kitchen, If I Had Possession Over Judgement Day, Milkcow’s Calf Blues, Kind Hearted Woman Blues, 32-20 Blues, Traveling Riverside Blues and Me And The Devil Blues. For Blues lovers this record is a must-have and Clapton deserves great credit for making it happen and work so well. We have an extensive interview with Clapton on the making of this record and the background to his love for the blues genre. Check it out.

4/5