Jack Bruces' playing in Cream live

[Hughsie]

I'm currently recording some Cream covers and learning those tunes has been a hugely valuable (and enjoyable) lesson. I have quite literally got blisters on my fingers, trying to match the man's early-days attack.

Personally I thought that, overall, Cream's reunion releases were actually better than the 60s live stuff - more focussed. I do prefer Jack's earlier bass approach, though. That said, have you guys checked out the "Swedish Radio Sessions: Konsert med Cream 1967" disc (came packaged with the big post-reunion documentary DVD)? It's phenomenal.

Also, the Jack Bruce instructional DVD is well worth a look, including lots of full-song performances in the studio with a power trio made up of JB, Gary Husband and Gary Moore!

And while I'm at it, 'Seven Moons', the new album by JB and Robin Trower, is the album of the year so far IMO.

 

[JimK]

I think I prefer Cream's '60s live stuff over anything recent...because it's less focused.
To me, there's more "freedom", experimentation, urgency, a rawness, more of a "I have no idea what's coming next", etc.

 

[ClassicRock55]

I always thought Clapton played much better in Cream than he did at any other point in his career

The first song I learned on bass was Sunshine of Your Love and I picked up a Warwick Fretless Corvette for a Jack Bruce like tone. Love that band.

 

[pedro]

I always thought Clapton played much better in Cream than he did at any other point in his career

The first song I learned on bass was Sunshine of Your Love and I picked up a Warwick Fretless Corvette for a Jack Bruce like tone. Love that band.

I'm curious, if you were after a Jack Bruce tone why didn't pick up a Thumb bass instead?

 

[Big String]

Yeah, there's a live version of "Crossroads" from the "Wheels of Fire" album that is probably the greatest single live rock track of all time. It is indeed, like three people soloing at once, and yet, it all works.
QUOTE]


I couldn't agree more ... stupendous!

 

[The Lurker]

I think I prefer Cream's '60s live stuff over anything recent...because it's less focused.
To me, there's more "freedom", experimentation, urgency, a rawness, more of a "I have no idea what's coming next", etc.

That's one of the best things about Cream... so unpredictable. I like musical surprises.