On Tour with Eric Clapton

In the late 60s and early '70s, Delaney and Bonnie Bramlett played a vibrant, country-tinged blues-rock that also owed a heavy debt to gritty Memphis R&B (it is no coincidence that their first album was released on Stax Records). And while their singing and playing were consistently top-notch, their profile was not weakened by their association with Eric Clapton, who toured with them between his stint in Blind Faith and the formation of Derek and the Dominos. In fact, when considering Clapton's musical evolution, it seems clear that the rootsy, downhome vibe of Delaney & Bonnie was a direct influence on the direction of his solo career.
This excellent live set showcases Delaney & Bonnie's superb vocal performances (note Bonnie's gospel-drenched take on "That's What My Man Is For"), and Clapton's superior playing. Whether on driving, Stax-style soul ("Things Get Better") or good old rock & roll (on the fierce, extended Little Richard medley), the band--which consists of some of the finest musicians of the day, many of whom went on to play with Clapton and other luminaries throughout the '70s--tears it up. But while the set teems with advanced musicianship, the overall vibe is one of straightforward fun and good times.