Back catalogue: All genres

Review: Eric Clapton's Crossroads Guitar Festival 2023 captures a thrilling live showcase of guitar virtuosity, celebrating a return after a four-year hiatus. With Bill Murray as Master of Ceremonies, this event brought together an exceptional lineup, including Joe Bonamassa, Gary Clark Jr., Sheryl Crow, H.E.R., Christone "Kingfish" Ingram, Santana, John Mayer and more. Across four discs, more than 50 tracks reveal electrifying renditions of blues classics, rock anthems and American Songbook standards, with Clapton himself frequently joining his peers onstage. Highlights include collaborations with the Del McCoury Band, Bradley Walker and stirring performances of 'Eight Miles High' with Roger McGuinn and 'Bluebird' with Stephen Stills. Spanning multiple genres and generations, the set offers a testament to the unifying power of the guitar, underscoring Clapton's influence in gathering top talents from across eras. This release not only chronicles a memorable night for fans but also reinforces the legacy of blues guitar as it finds fresh, dynamic life through each performer. Crossroads Guitar Festival 2023 is essential for blues and rock fans alike.

Review: Since the release of Deja Vu in 1970, the music scene had evolved, but audiences still craved the harmony-driven idealism that catapulted Crosby, Stills & Nash to fame. CSN, the band's third album, reached number two on the charts, just behind Fleetwood Mac's Rumours. The album shows a mature lyrical depth and intricate compositions. Graham Nash's 'Just a Song Before I Go' became a hit single, epitomising his knack for radio-friendly acoustic tunes. Stephen Stills' 'See the Changes' and 'Dark Star' stand tall among his best, while David Crosby's contributions - 'Shadow Captain,' 'Anything at All,' and the poignant 'In My Dreams' - highlight his unique voice. Nash's multi-part epic 'Cathedral,' inspired by an acid trip in Winchester Cathedral, became a live staple. CSN is the last album where the trio's harmonies shine without additional voices, making it a timeless gem, blending country, pop, and rock seamlessly. Despite not reaching the innovative peaks of their first two albums, CSN remains a beloved album in their vault.

Review: The 2024 release of Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young - Live At Fillmore East, 1969 captures the iconic band's electricifying energy during their fourth show in two days at the Fillmore East. Rhino's 2xLP set is a newly discovered multi-track recording of the September 20, 1969, concert, featuring both acoustic and electric performances. The setlist includes early versions of future classics from the Deja Vu and Everybody Knows This Is Nowhere albums such as 'Suite: Judy Blue Eyes' and 'Down By The River'. Highlights include Stephen Stills' stirring solo performance of '4 + 20' and Graham Nash's heartfelt rendition of 'Our House', dedicated to Joni Mitchell, while Neil Young also revisits his Buffalo Springfield roots with 'I've Loved Her So Long'. The electric set intensifies with expansive versions of 'Wooden Ships' and 'Sea Of Madness'. The show closes with 'Find The Cost Of Freedom', offering a powerful finale. The audio, mixed by Stills and Young, boasts impeccable quality, with AAA lacquer-cut vinyl ensuring superior fidelity. This release is a treasure for CSNY fans, capturing a pivotal moment in the band's history.