Back Home
Back Homeis Eric Clapton in a good mood, filled with upbeat toe-tappers about hearth and home (a young child even puts in a cameo on "So Tired"). Blues-rock ("Lost and Found"), reggae ("Revolution"), and R&B; (the Spinners' "Love Don't Love Nobody") mingle comfortably with laid-back pop (George Harrison's "Love Comes to Everyone"). Recorded around the same time asMe and Mr. Johnson, his bestselling collection of Robert Johnson songs, Clapton's first recording of (mostly) original material since 2001'sReptileis a combination of solo compositions, covers, and collaborations with writing partner Simon Climie. Backing musicians include John Mayer (guitar), Blind Faith mate Steve Winwood (synthesizer), and longtime associate Billy Preston (keyboards), whose expertise with the Hammond B3 shines brightest on the Vince Gill cowritten "One Day". There are no real surprises onBack Home, just Clapton doing what he does best--with an extra spring in his step.--Kathleen C. Fennessy