Glasgow SECC, Scotland
8th May 2006


Review by : Tom Finnigan

I attended the Eric Clapton concert at the SECC in Glasgow on 8 May 2006 with my friend, Lynn, which kicked off Eric's European leg of the World Tour.... And what a show!!

Eric announced after the first few songs that this concert was the opener and apologized if the band sounded sloppy at any time, but there was no sign of that happening from the opening Pretending until the only encore, Crossroads.

Early on, Doyle Bramhall looked rather serious, although the guitar playing throughout the concert was amazing, with a special mention for Derek Trucks, whose slide guitar work blew me away. During the show the musicians seemed to relax and smiles were then evident from Eric and his band members.

One of the highlights of the show Queen of Spades, which included some breathtaking guitar work from all three guitarists, starting with Clapton's opening solo (which sounded a little like Have You Ever Loved A Woman). Chris Stainton's piano playing was second-to-none on this song as he strained to reach every note. Clapton had certainly put together a fine band of musicians - possibly one of the best I have heard - and back-up singers.

The acoustic set was also terrific, which included moving versions of Back Home, I Am Yours and then Running on Faith and Nobody Knows You When you're Down and Out (one of my personal favourites). Clapton was joined by Derek Trucks and Doyle Bramhall during this part of the show, with other band members playing percussion.

Wonderful Tonight, Cocaine and the magical notes of Layla closed the show before the band arrived back on stage for Crossroads, which highlighted the skills of each guitarist: the opening solo being taken on by none other that Robert Cray, who had been invited on stage.

The concert lasted for almost 2 hours and included all different types of music as Clapton delved into his extensive back catalogue and, I'm sure, delighted everyone who attended. If you have a chance, try not to miss this tour!! If this was the opener then God knows how much better they will sound once they have a few concerts under their belt. Let's hope he calls back to Glasgow for the next World Tour!!


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