It's been 38 years since Brit guitar master Eric Clapton recorded Robert Johnson's song "Crossroads" for Elektra's "What's Shakin'" rock 'n' roll compilation.
Now, at age 58, Clapton has recorded a 14-song album in tribute to the mysterious bluesman of the 1930s.
"Me and Mr. Johnson" is as much a gift to Clapton's loyal electric blues fans as it is a truly enjoyable venture for Clapton himself.
Clapton's rendition of "Traveling Riverside Blues" is extremely soulful and radical. His vocals are great, the harmonica is phenomenal and the slide guitar is fantastic.
It's evident that Clapton worships Johnson. Therefore, if there ever were going to be a 14-song electric guitar tribute album to the bluesman, Clapton would be the mainstream artist to get it done.
One of the best aspects of "Me and Mr. Johnson" is Clapton's wise decision to make it more than just another solo guitar album. He brings in drummer Steve Gadd, bassist Nathan East, harp player Jerry Portnoy, organist and pianist Billy Preston and fellow blues guitarists Doyle Bramhall II and Andy Fairweather Low.
The result is a rich Mississippi delta blues sound that honors Johnson's name, while adding yet more integrity to Clapton's four-decade guitarist career.
I'm not sure of the exact number, but I don't think Johnson ever recorded many more songs than appear on this album. His death in 1938 is surrounded by controversy to the point of making the man a mythic legend. As I hope you know, the story goes that Johnson sold his soul to the devil in order to become a better guitarist.
Johnson's guitar, lyrical and vocal styles have influenced countless musicians of all forms of music. So, apparently his decision to sell his soul was worth it.
Commonly respected Johnson tunes, such "Hell Hound on My Trail" and "Kind Hearted Woman Blues", really make this album a work of historical art appreciation.
The album's tempo picks up a little on songs such as "32-20 Blues" and "They're Red Hot", bringing more of a swinging electric blues guitar and fast-paced rhythm into the mix.
The best tracks though, due to Clapton's singing and the awesome talents of his backing musicians, include "Come On In My Kitchen" and "When You Got a Good Friend."
Clapton's ability to sing the blues is still there, evident from the beginning vocals of "Milkcow's Calf Blues." The piano really adds to this song, and makes it one helluva blues-rock jam.
The beauty of the album is that it gives new life to Johnson's 1930s recordings. It takes a keen ear to listen to Johnson and appreciate his music. It's old, it's solo and the recording quality leaves much to be desired. But with artists like Clapton, Johnson's influence and precedents in the blues genre will live on in a manner appealing to almost everybody - at least anyone with good tastes.
If you liked this, you also might like: Other electric blues artists and Robert Johnson followers, such as Elmore James and Hound Dog Taylor.
Suggested listening: While driving through rural Mississippi in the middle of the night.
