- Genuine 1972 Release on RSO Records
Strap in, music freaks! Cream's"Live Cream Volume II" is a sonic hurricane unleashed on wax. Recorded during their explosive 1968 tour, this ain't your mama's greatest hits compilation. This is the raw, untamed beast of Cream at their peak. Clapton's guitar wails like a banshee, Bruce's basslines rumble like thunder, and Baker's drums pound like a tribal war beat. From the sprawling epic "Deserted Cities of the Heart" to the iconic riff of "Sunshine of Your Love," this album is a journey through the heart of blues-rock mayhem. Buckle up, kids, and prepare for a wild ride through the sonic wilderness.l
In the smoldering ashes of the late '60s, a sonic behemoth named Cream left an indelible mark on the musical landscape. Their live performances were legendary, a volcanic eruption of blues-infused rock that transcended the boundaries of mere concerts. "Live Cream Volume II," released in 1972 as a double vinyl LP, captures the raw essence of their fiery stage presence, a whirlwind of improvisation and unbridled energy.
Recorded during their whirlwind 1968 tour, this album is a time capsule from an era of musical exploration and experimentation. The tracks are a testament to the virtuosity of Eric Clapton, Jack Bruce, and Ginger Baker, three musicians at the peak of their powers. Their chemistry is undeniable, a combustible mix of personalities and musical styles that somehow coalesced into something magical.
Clapton's guitar work is nothing short of incendiary, a torrent of bluesy riffs and scorching solos that ignite the speakers. His interplay with Jack Bruce's thunderous bass lines is a force of nature, a rhythmic foundation that anchors the songs while allowing for wild flights of fancy. And then there's Ginger Baker, a madman behind the drum kit, his percussive fury driving the music to a fever pitch.
The album opens with "Deserted Cities of the Heart," a sprawling epic that showcases the band's improvisational prowess. The song is a journey, a sonic odyssey that winds its way through intricate passages and explosive crescendos. It's a testament to the band's ability to create music in the moment, a spontaneous outpouring of creativity that defies categorization.
Side one continues with the bluesy swagger of "White Room" and the politically charged "Politician," showcasing the band's lyrical depth alongside their instrumental prowess. The side closes with the psychedelic haze of "Tales of Brave Ulysses," a song that perfectly encapsulates the experimental spirit of the late '60s.
Side two kicks off with the iconic "Sunshine of Your Love," a song that needs no introduction. Its infectious groove and Clapton's iconic riff have become synonymous with Cream's sound. The album closes with a blistering rendition of the blues standard "Hideaway," a showcase for Clapton's virtuosity and the band's ability to breathe new life into classic material.
"Live Cream Volume II" is a raw and unfiltered document of a band at the top of their game. It's a testament to their power and influence, a reminder of a time when music was more than just entertainment. It was a force of nature, a sonic storm that swept across the world and left an everlasting impact.
Music Genre: Rock, Blues |
Album Packaging / Information: Produced by Felix Pappalardi, Photography Jim MarshallJim Marshall (1936-2010) was an American photographer known for his iconic images that captured the essence of the music and cultural scene of the 1960s and 1970s. His work became synonymous with rock 'n' roll, and he is regarded as one of the greatest music photographers of all time. Born on 3 February 1936, in Chicago, Illinois, James Joseph Marshall developed an early passion for photography. He received his first camera, a Kodak Brownie, at the age of nine and began experimenting with capturing the world around him. As a teenager, Marshall worked as an assistant to a local portrait photographer, honing his skills and developing his own unique style. In the early 1960s, Marshall moved to San Francisco, where he became immersed in the burgeoning counterculture and music scene. He began photographing jazz musicians, but it was his love for rock 'n' roll that would define his career. Marshall's ability to blend seamlessly into the music scene allowed him to capture intimate and candid moments of some of the greatest musicians of all time. One of Marshall's most famous photographs is the image of Jimi Hendrix burning his guitar on stage at the Monterey Pop Festival in 1967. This image encapsulated the rebellious spirit of the era and became an enduring symbol of the power and energy of rock music. Marshall's other notable subjects included Janis Joplin, Bob Dylan, The Rolling Stones, The Beatles, Johnny Cash, and Miles Davis, among many others. Marshall's photographs went beyond the stage and studio; he captured the essence of the artists themselves, documenting their lives on the road and offstage. His images showcased the raw emotions, vulnerability, and humanity of these legendary figures, making them relatable to audiences around the world. Throughout his career, Marshall was known for his relentless work ethic and dedication to his craft. He was often described as a maverick, unafraid to push boundaries and capture the truth of the moment. His photographs reflected the cultural and political climate of the time, and his ability to connect with his subjects on a personal level allowed him to capture moments of rare authenticity. Despite his success, Marshall remained humble and often preferred the company of musicians over the glitz and glamour of the industry. He valued his relationships with the artists he photographed, and many of them considered him a friend as well as a trusted documentarian. In addition to his music photography, Marshall also ventured into other genres, including street photography and portraiture. His work has been exhibited in numerous galleries and museums worldwide and has been featured on album covers, book covers, and in publications such as Rolling Stone, Life, and Vanity Fair. Jim Marshall passed away on 24 March 2010, leaving behind a rich legacy of images that continue to inspire and resonate with music lovers and photography enthusiasts alike. His photographs capture a transformative period in history and remain a testament to the power of visual storytelling. Today, his work continues to be celebrated and recognized as an indelible part of the cultural fabric of the 20th century. |
Record Label & Catalognr: RSO 2479 153 (2479153) |
Media Format: 12" LP Vinyl Gramophone Record |
Year & Country: 1972 Made in Germany |
Band Members and Musicians on: CREAM Live Cream Volume II |
Eric Clapton: The 1970s saw Eric Clapton battle heroin addiction, yet produce iconic work like "Layla." He resurfaced with successful albums like "461 Ocean Boulevard" and "Slowhand." His music matured, showcasing vulnerability with hits like "Wonderful Tonight." While the 1980s brought sobriety, his output remained commercially popular. Albums like "Behind the Sun" and collaborations with Phil Collins kept Clapton in the spotlight throughout the decade. Learn more about him
Jack Bruce: Bass innovator. Cream legend. His powerful playing, soulful vocals, and iconic songwriting defined an era in rock music. Discover his legacy
Ginger Baker: Fiery drummer. Cream legend. Jazz-infused rhythms, explosive solos, and a temper as volatile as his talent. A complex musical icon.
Complete Track Listing of: CREAM Live Cream Volume II |
Note: The photos on this page are taken from albums in my personal collection. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone ).
"Live Cream Volume II" Record Label Details: Light Brown colour RSO Records 2479 153, 2381 119 S 1 ℗ 1972 RSO Records Sound Copyright
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