Artist: Eric Clapton Album: August

Year: 1986
Duration: 0:0-1

Eric Clapton's August: A Critical Review of the Album

Eric Clapton is a legendary musician who has been active in the industry for over five decades. With his smooth and soulful voice, he has produced a number of timeless classics that have become a staple of the generations that have followed him. One such album is August, released in 1986, which is the focus of this critical review. This album marked a significant milestone in Clapton's career as it included a number of innovative elements, showcasing his versatility as an artist. In this review, we will discuss the background of this album, the music genre that it belongs to, the best and most innovative songs of the album, and a critical analysis of its overall impact.

August is an album that belongs to the rock genre with prominent influences from blues and pop music. Clapton, who is known for his signature guitar riffs, incorporates these elements throughout the album, resulting in a unique sound that is truly his own. The album itself is a perfect representation of Clapton's diverse musical style, showcasing his ability to experiment with different genres. In addition to the more bluesy tracks on the album, such as It's in the Way That You Use It, there are also some unforgettable pop-inspired hits, such as Tearing Us Apart featuring Tina Turner.

Among the best songs on this album is the unforgettable Wonderful Tonight. Clapton wrote this timeless classic about Pattie Boyd, his then-wife, and her timeless beauty. The song's poignancy and heartfelt lyrics are a reflection of Clapton's raw emotions, and it remains one of his most beloved and popular tracks to date. Another standout track is Run, a track that is distinctly different from the rest of the album. Run contains elements of reggae and has a strong groove, making it an upbeat and danceable track.

One of the most innovative parts of the album is Clapton's collaboration with Phil Collins. Collins, who is known for fronting the classic rock group Genesis, was featured as both the drummer and producer on the album. This collaboration added a fresh perspective to the album, making it more dynamic and complex. Collins' contributions are particularly evident in tracks like Holy Mother, where his drumming techniques added a unique depth and rhythm to the song.

However, while the album has a number of high points, it's not without its flaws. Clapton's cover of the track Behind the Mask is underwhelming compared to other versions of the song, and the lyrics of some of the other tracks on the album can come across as a tad too simplistic or cheesy. However, these shortfalls can be overlooked since August is still a notable achievement in Clapton's career and the wider music industry.

In summary, August is an excellent representation of Clapton's innovative and diverse musical style. The rock, blues, and pop influences all come together to form a cohesive and memorable album that highlights his versatility as an artist. The album's high points, including Wonderful Tonight and Run, are some of Clapton's most beloved songs. The incorporation of Phil Collins' production and drumming skills give an exciting addition to the album. While it is not perfect, it is a significant milestone in Clapton's storied career and a must-listen for anyone interested in rock and blues music.