Derek and the Dominos - Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs

Presenter

Stephen Hall

Published

Monday 17th September

Label: Polydor/Umgd

Someone once labelled this ‘Sonic Van Gogh’, however, most serious rock music fans know the story of Eric Clapton falling in love with George Harrison’s wife. He was joined by several members of the Delaney & Bonnie along with Duane Allman to form Derek & The Dominos and released this double album of pained love.

Clapton’s voice is pure emotion in Bell Bottom Blues and Why Does Love Have To Be So Sad. The blues of Nobody Loves You When You’re Down And Out and Have You Ever Loved A Woman demonstrates his passionate longing.

The two guitar giants play together magnificently; Allman’s slide on Anyday and Clapton’s lead on Tell The Truth Are sizzling hot. The version of Hendrix’s Little Wing is a beautiful tribute and they trade breathtaking solos on the blues number Key to the Highway.

Layla is one of the greatest songs in the history of rock music. Clapton’s passionate vocals and Allman’s blistering slide guitar solo along with the exquisiteness of their twin slide guitars during the piano coda is without equal.

A blues-rock guitar masterpiece.

Released: November 1970