Derek and the Dominos - "Layla and other assorted love songs"

I believe I missed a week, sorry about that. Here is the triumphant return with my favorite album of all time. Derek and the Dominos lone studio album is not only one of the finest examples of rock music, it is also a testament to the creative power of love; whether it be euphoric or heartbreaking.

As it has been widely told before Eric Clapton was madly in love with his best friend's, George Harrison, wife Patti Boyd. Clapton had been working as a side man, with Delaney and Bonnie as well as on Harrison's "All Things Must Pass" album, to escape the spotlight of superstardom. Clapton joined forces with Bobby Whitlock, Jim Gordon and Carl Radle to form Derek and the Dominos. During the recording sessions Duane Allman joined the group as well.

The Dominos are Clapton's finest group able to adeptly support him but also work as a unit creating a true band sound. The title cut is a prime example of their great teamwork: halfway through the song all the blistering guitars fade to a whisper and the rest of the tune is a beautiful piano solo by Whitlock. This is truly a great band and it truly is a pity that they were not able to record more albums.

None the less their one album is a shining achievement. Clapton has never been better, he throws out blistering guitar parts that are among the best of his career. Some are fast straight ahead jaw droppers other are intricate quiet tunes. He uses the blues and rock equally to get his point across. Clapton has never before or since sounded as passionate or interested in his music as he does here.

The songs emit all Clapton's yearning, aching, depression and excitement that comes from being in love. Despite his turmoil the songs are often up tempo but there are a fine share of blues songs in there as well. The songs encompass everything that one feels when love is out of reach. There is also some hope though, in reality Clapton eventually married Patti Boyd largely in part due to this soul bearing album.

I could go on and on for days about the greatness of this album and how much I enjoy it but I shall stop soon. I believe one of the main reasons this is my favorite album is that I have more times than I want to admit been in the exact same place as Clapton, in love with someone who does not love me. I have never been as talented as Mr. Clapton and I can play only a few notes on the guitar; the only outlet I have is writing and listening to music. This is the music that connects us to each other, we as humans are consumed by emotion at all times and "Layla" reflects that. That is what this album does for me, not only is it great music; "Layla" reminds me that love conquers all and that in the end even a guitar god like Clapton is just as human as I am.