#73. John Mayall's Blues Breakers | Blues Breakers with Eric Clapton (1966)

Shortly after this album was released, graffiti started popping up around London, which simply stated, "Clapton is God." Bridging the gap between his time with The Yardbirds and the formation of Cream, this was Clapton's first fully realized album as a blues guitarist, and possibly the best British blues album ever.

Clapton toured with John Mayall for about a year prior to recording this album and the goal was to try and capture the energy of the band's live performances. It can definitely be felt on the opening track, a great cover of an Otis Rush song, "All Your Love." The sounds of the Hammond organ and Clapton on guitar make you feel like you're in a honky tonk on the Mississippi.

Even though this album is a showcase for Clapton's talent, Mayall's contributions were no less notable. He was able to incorporate his original songs "Little Girl" and "Key To Love" with revered blues standards such as "Hideaway" and "Ramblin' On My Mind." The latter featuring Clapton's very first lead vocal. So, ok, he stole the spotlight again.

Track Listing:
01. All Your Love
02. Hideaway
03. Little Girl
04. Another Man
05. Double Crossing Time
06. What'd I Say
07. Key To Love
08. Parchman Farm
09. Have You Heard
10. Ramblin' On My Mind
11. Steppin' Out
12. It Ain't Right