B.B. King & Eric Clapton – Riding With The King (2000) [Audio Fidelity 2015] [SACD / Audio Fidelity – AFZ 211]

Title: B.B. King & Eric Clapton – Riding With The King (2000) [Audio Fidelity 2015]
Genre: Rock
Format: SACD ISO + Hi-Res FLAC

The collaboration between B.B. King and Eric Clapton on Riding With the King holds immense potential, driven by their complementary styles. Organized by Clapton, the album features his regular musicians, song choices, and co-production with Simon Climie. Despite Clapton’s lead role, his respect for the 74-year-old King ensures King’s prominence, almost making Clapton a supporting player. The set list includes King classics like “Ten Long Years” and “Three O’Clock Blues,” alongside standards like “Hold on I’m Coming” and new material tailored for King. Clapton’s deference risks overshadowing his contribution, a tendency seen in past collaborations with guitarists like Albert Lee. However, their distinct styles mesh well, with Clapton’s support enhancing King’s sharp single-string playing. Multiple guitarists per track add depth to the sound. The album is effective, blending King’s blues mastery with Clapton’s polish, though it falls short of being truly groundbreaking. Recorded with high production quality, it showcases King’s comfort and Clapton’s restraint. Overall, Riding With the King delivers a solid, respectful partnership.

hraudio | allmusic | discogs

Tracklist:

01. Riding with the King
02. Ten Long Years
03. Key to the Highway
04. Marry You
05. Three O’Clock Blues
06. Help the Poor
07. I Wanna Be
08. Worried Life Blues
09. Day of Old
10. When My Heart Beats Like a Hammer
11. Hold On, I’m Comin’
12. Come Rain or Come Shine

Note:

Mastered for this SACD by Steve Hoffman at Stephen Marsch Mastering.

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