Review Summary: 'Live' in the truest sense
Eric Clapton: the man responsible for 1/3 of legendary Psychedelic Rock band Cream, another 1/4 of late 60's rock supergroup Blind Faith, and 100% of his eponymous career. "One More Car, One More Rider" (forever known from here on out as OMCOMR) showcases Clapton at one his best recorded live performances, offering to the listener a superbly-crafted track listing, a wonderful backing band, and sharp production that allows each instrument to breathe and resonate.
OMCOMR consists of:
Eric Clapton - Lead Guitar/Vocals
Billy Preston - Organ/Backing Vocals
Greg Phillinganes - Organ/Backing Vocals
Steve Gadd - Drums
David Sancious - Keyboards/Guitar
Nathan East - Bass Guitar/Backing Vocals
Andy Fairweather-Low - Rhythm Guitar/Backing Vocals
What immediately captures the listener's attention upon first listen to this album is the production. As stated before, it's silky and organic; you're clearly able to hear each and every instrument, which on an album like this where each gets its respective time to standout (and believe me, they all do) is incredibly rewarding. The production especially favors Clapton's voice, which like a fine wine only appears to be getting better with age. For proof, look no further than the acoustic blues-rocker "Bell Bottom Blues" or the heartwarming "Tears in Heaven", which was written for Clapton's son after he passed away. The production here is cleaner than Clapton's previous live outings, and benefits the record's replay value immensely in the long run.
The second aspect that makes this album so great is the setlist. The album is divided into two discs, both covering twenty tracks performed one lucky night in August 2001 for a crowd in the Los Angeles Staples Center. Clapton and the gang tear through a number of hits like "Layla" and "Cocaine" late into the set, keeping you energized throughout the album's entirety, which is a somewhat exhausting 116 minutes. They even play homage to Eric's roots on the second disc, playing an alternate version of Cream's '69 hit "Badge" which actually benefits from Clapton's smooth tone more so than from the original singer's, Jack Bruce. Cream classic "Sunshine of Your Love" even makes an appearance as the second-to-last-track of the entire show, boasting a fun improvised solo in the beginning which reminds us Clapton hasn't lost his zeal of the instrument he has so expertly clutched for the past half-century. OMCOMR also showcases newer material, giving songs like "Reptile" a time to shine among the other classics. The live record reaches its ecstatic apex on the very last track, a tasteful cover of "Over the Rainbow", which manages to capture the beauty and innocence of the original while still being something truly unique; it's an experience that is more genuine when listened to rather than read about.
Other highlights include the monster organ solo on "River of Tears", the catchy and fun "Change the World", and the blues romp of "I Want a Little Girl". I've tried hard to look for negatives in the album, but have (happily) come up short. The only potential drawback to an otherwise awesome listening experience is the length and somewhat useless intro "Key to the Highway", which just seems to be there as a teaser, showcasing the fret-work and velvet voice that will one will expect to be prevalent over the proceeding 2 hours.
OMCOMR captures everything about Eric Clapton that is revered– his exquisite voice, soulful and intricate fretwork, and an ultimately pleasing experience that is just as enjoyable for us to listen to as it is for the band to play it. Like a fine wine, Eric Clapton only gets better with age and is enjoyed in a tranquil state next to a roaring open fire. OMCOMR reminds us that Clapton hasn't lost it over the past 40 years; if anything, it shows that there is still more great work to look forward to.
