CLAPTON, ERIC

As the '80s drew to a close, Clapton's lifestyle included fraternizing with models and wearing designer suits to go with stylish haircuts. Amid all this jet-setting, Clapton released JOURNEYMAN, an album that found his songwriting involvement limited to cuts co-written with Foreigner's Mick Jones ("Bad Love") and Robert Cray ("Old Love"). Respected producer Russ Titelman twisted knobs as a number of famous guests contributed to the creative process. Old friend George Harrison contributed guitar, harmonies and a song ("Run So Far") while Clapton's band from AUGUST (Greg Phillinganes, Nathan East, Phil Collins) are also present. Although the slick production of most of Clapton's '80s work is evident, his passion is far from lacking. "Running On Faith" finds Slowhand looking deep inside himself as a gospel choir chimes away in the background. On Ray Charles' "Hard Times" Clapton reminds listeners that heartache is around the corner. The sweet nothings whispered in "Lead Me On" are made that much sweeter by the harmonies of Cecil and Linda Womack. E.C. also manages to have a ball with a shuffling "Hound Dog" and a rollicking take on Bo Diddley's "Before You Accuse Me."

Estimated despatch 5-10 days after ordering.