# Rediscovering Eric Clapton's 'Slowhand': The 35 - Year Deluxe Edition Revival
## The Original 'Slowhand' Magic and Its Quirks
In the 1970s, Eric Clapton's 'Slowhand' emerged as his most triumphant solo album. With "Cocaine", "Wonderful Tonight", and "Lay Down Sally" soaring to hit single status and becoming live show staples, the album took on a 'greatest hits' aura. While this was a testament to its success, it also made the subsequent tracks seem overshadowed, throwing the album's balance off (differing from its initial release).
## The 35 - Year - Later Deluxe Double - Disc Treat
Fast forward 35 years, and the expanded double - disc edition of 'Slowhand' offers a thrilling chance to relive this best - selling classic.
### Disc 1: Unreleased Gems and Hidden Treasures
Disc 1 features 3 never - before - released out - takes from the album sessions. There's also a solo version of “Alberta” that appeared on Blues. These tracks are fascinating, though like most out - takes, they didn't make the original cut for a reason. Still, “Stars, Strays And Ashtrays” stands out; it's easy to imagine Eric singing it in a lonely southern bar.
### Disc 2: The “Best of” Hammersmith Odeon Live Set
Disc 2 showcases the “Best of” Clapton's live performance at the Hammersmith Odeon on 27/4/77. The main draw for many will be the 5 unreleased tracks: “Steady Rollin’ Man” (a rocking favorite from 461 Ocean Boulevard, though Eric's solo has its highs and lows), “Can’t Find My Way Home” (a moving moment when Yvonne Elliman takes over), “Badge” (a real rocker), “I Shot The Sheriff” (watch out for that long drum solo), and “Layla” (the first - half version sans keyboard ending). However, a letdown is that over 30 minutes of the live material has been released before.
### The Super Deluxe Version Tease
The Super Deluxe version has 5 more unreleased tracks. Some of these, like “Nobody Knows When You’re Down And Out” and “Key To The Highway”, would have been great additions to the Deluxe Edition. But if you don't own the Crossroads box sets, you'll still find plenty to love here.
## Presentation and Sound Quality
The package is attractively presented, though getting the discs out of the digi - paks is a bit of a challenge. The 16 - page glossy booklet with an essay by David Hepworth, photos, and recording details is a nice touch. On first listen, the remastering sounds great, with Carl Radle's bass having more presence.
In conclusion, the 35 - year - old 'Slowhand' gets a new lease on life with this deluxe edition, offering both old and new Clapton fans a chance to explore and enjoy his music all over again. #EricClapton #Slowhand #DeluxeEdition #MusicReview
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