Cream - Chris Welch
Balafon Books ISBN 0-87930 -642-6
In the summer of
1966, three of the UK's best young musicians formed the world's
first "supergroup" which they appropriately named
"Cream". Ginger Baker (drums), Jack Bruce (bass) and
Eric Clapton (guitar) were hardly household names but were well
known for their exceptional ability on their chosen instruments
by fans of the small but flourishing British blues scene.
By the time the group disbanded, they had established a large
following in the UK and the USA, made a significant impact on the
record charts and changed the direction of popular music. From
then on, "serious" music fans would place an increasing
premium on a band's technical abilities, at least until the
advent of punk leveled the playing field a decade later.
Cream started as a Blues outfit but soon incorporated other
styles into their playing. They more or less created "heavy
rock" and their studio output includes early examples of
what could be called "progressive rock". At times,
their live performances veered towards modern Jazz, a legacy of
Baker and Bruce's earlier musical ventures.
In the end, the pressure of constant touring under primitive
conditions and personality clashes within the band took their
toll. Worn out and feeling trapped by their own success and their
audience's expectations, Cream split in November '68 to the great
disappointment of their many fans (including yours truly).
Chris Welch was a Melody Maker journalist during Cream's brief
existence. Having championed the band from the beginning and
knowing the musicians personally, Welch is well placed to tell
the band's story. He gives an enthusiastic yet balanced account,
being aware of Cream's limitations as well as their many
strengths. He augments material from the sixties with recent
interviews with Baker and Bruce (but not Clapton) plus other key
individuals.
The book is copiously illustrated throughout and includes a
comprehensive diary and discography. It also includes a chapter
provided by Dave Gregory (XTC guitarist), Geoff Nicholls and Jim
Roberts which analyses Clapton, Baker and Bruce's playing
techniques and equipment. I particularly enjoyed the entertaining
account of the three musicians' exploits prior to forming Cream,
which brings to life the vibrancy and craziness of the early/mid
sixties. Cream's career itself is covered in just the right level
of detail, from their first rehearsals (one of them in front of
group of bemused girl guides) to their triumphant farewell
concerts at the Albert Hall.
I can confidently recommend this book to anyone with an interest
in this influential and pioneering group.
Mick Overy July 2001
Copyright Bathtub of Adventures 2001
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