Quick Bits (Mini Reviews Of New Releases)

Eric Clapton and Steve Winwood – Live From Madison Square Garden

Clapton and Winwood did three concerts together at Madison Square Garden in February 2008, the results spawned this double-disc album and culls 21 highlights. Sequencing so Traffic numbers alternate with selections from Blind Faith, Derek & the Dominos, blues standards, a handful of Clapton hits, and three Hendrix covers. Clapton and Winwood trade vocals and solos almost equally. Clapton and Winwood create sparks such as the '80s hits "Forever Man" and "Split Decision," both which are highlights here. This isn't an album of moments, but rather a sustained whole that finds Clapton and Winwood producing a wholly satisfying reunion. Recommended. Standout tracks: Forever Man; Split Decision; Them Changes You can purchase the CD here.



Chickenfoot - Chickenfoot
This is the new super group with Sammy Hagar, Joe Satriani, Michael Anthony and Chad Smith. Any band with two former Van Halen members and Eddie Van Halen-disciple Satriani on guitar will naturally draw comparisons. "Soap on a Rope" could easily fit on ‘For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge’ or ‘Balance’. "Runnin' Out" has a bluesy groove not unlike "Finish What Ya Started," while "Down the Drain" sounds like Roth-era VH. It's not all Van Halen imitation going on. Opening cut, "Avenida Revolution" features a menacing Satriani riff and driving rhythm section of Anthony and Smith. Smith's funk chops are all over the disc and Anthony really gets to shine out of Eddie's shadow. Recommended. Standout tracks: Soap On A Rope; Runnin’ Out; Avenida Revolution You can purchase the CD here.