Eric Clapton’s long-awaited gig at Dublin’s 3Arena drew a crowd of seasoned fans eager to appreciate the talents of one of rock’s surviving legends. Having not performed in Ireland for more than a decade, Clapton, who recently turned 79, and his proficient band delivered a lively set brimming with timeless classics. The respected rock musician proved that ageing doesn’t dampen his musical prowess.
Clapton is a distinguished figure, notorious for overcoming addiction and alcoholism, and has since dedicated himself to aiding others with similar struggles through his Crossroads clinic. Infamously outspoken, Clapton is no stranger to controversy. He recently drew attention by partnering with Van Morrison to contest Covid restrictions in the name of personal freedom.
At his concert, the audience witnessed Clapton advocating a novel cause. Draping his guitar in the colours of the Palestinian flag, he presented a moving performance of Prayer Of A Child as a juxtaposing video of Gaza at peace and in turmoil ran on the colossal stage screens.
Clapton demonstrated his own experience of profound loss with a heartfelt rendition of Tears In Heaven, composed in memory of his son Conor who tragically passed away aged four in 1991. During an acoustic performance within the concert surpassing 80 minutes, he was joined by Paul Brady onstage. They delivered an unusual cover of folk song Sam Hall, as tribute to late American saxophonist David Sanborn, whose notable performances included Bowie’s Young Americans.
Explaining the musical tradition of commemorating a deceased musician, Brady subsequently performed his own track Harvest Time, which was met with a slightly befuddled response. Irrespective, the commendable performance seemed out of place in the midst of Clapton’s concert.
Clutching his Stratocaster, Clapton refocused on his performance, delivering an invigorating version of Got To Get Better in a Little While from his Derek and the Dominoes phase, equal in vigour to the earlier Badge from his time with Cream.
In great spirits, he demonstrated his impeccable skill despite the weakness noticeable in his voice. His playing was fluent, sophisticated and nimble, all hallmark traits of his style. His pace is never rushed, yet he commands an authoritative presence. The experience of watching him exercise his full range of talent is exhilarating. There’s no sign of the neuropathy he has unfortunately been afflicted with, hindering his performance.
The popular piece ‘Presence of the Lord’ originating from the Blind Faith era was followed by a fiery rendition of ‘Crossroads.’ His acclaimed performance of J J Cale’s ‘Cocaine’ ushered in a mighty end to the show. His blues encore seemed slightly lackluster, indicating it was time for some well-deserved rest. Who would fault him for needing some downtime?
Clapton was, of course, not the sole performer. His band, composing of five musicians and two backup vocalists, were an impressive ensemble. Recognition should go to Chris Stainton and Tim Carmon. Stainton’s piano playing was an unfailing pleasure and Carmon’s Hammond organ solos added magnificent depth.
Lastly, those who arrived late missed out on an incredible performance. Andy Fairweather Low, well-known for collaborating with Clapton on many tours and albums—including the unforgettable ‘Unplugged’—led his own Low Riders in an intriguing presentation of peculiar early rock‘n’roll. Despite debuting with the Amen Corner back in the 1960s, at 75 years old, his unique voice still has much of the edgy allure and he exudes an abundance of energy and ethos.