Journeyman: Eric Clapton — A Photographic Narrative is written by Gene Shaw who has gotten the chance to travel the world photographing Eric Clapton shows over the last many years. The cool thing is that he is from New York, so a lot of the venues he mentioned (at least those in the US) are ones that I have gone to as well – the last chapter is all about Eric Clapton’s show at Mohegan Sun – which is I think where I’ve seen most of my concerts over the past few years!
Each chapter focuses on a different show, with some commentary from Shaw, some photographs and the details of the show – who was playing with the bad, what the setlist was, etc. I had to laugh a little when one of the setlists was listed as the complete setlist being unknown. I have a few of those too.
Definitely a cool book, some cool experiences and great photographs!
I received a free e-copy of this book in order to write this review. I was not otherwise compensated.
About the Book
For over five decades, Eric Clapton has ranked among rock’s premiere guitarists—and since the early 1980s, famed music photographer Gene Shaw has been capturing great moments from Slowhand’s electrifying career. More than 150 of Shaw’s rare color and black-and-white photographs offer a front-row fan’s perspective on many legendary musical events. Highlights include Clapton’s performance at the 1983 ARMS benefit; the 1992 show with Elton John at Shea Stadium; the 2005 Cream reunions at the Royal Albert Hall and Madison Square Garden; several appearances at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremonies; and the current Crossroads Guitar Festivals.
Shaw provides a commentary on each show, recapturing the emotionally charged moods of venues ranging from small clubs and theaters to vast stadiums and arenas. Notes on the performances include a partial band lineup and complete set list. This unique retrospective includes an Introduction by Rolling Stone writer Anthony DeCurtis and a Foreword by John “Crash” Matos, artist and designer of some of Clapton’s signature guitars.