Album Review: Sunshine Of Your Love / Tearin’ Us Apart by Eric Clapton (1990)
Alright, let’s talk about this little slice of rock heaven—or at least what Castle Music Pictures decided to slap onto a record in 1990. Eric Clapton, the guitar wizard who probably has more nicknames than most people have socks, dropped Sunshine Of Your Love / Tearin’ Us Apart, a two-track mini-album that screams “Classic Rock” louder than your uncle after his third beer at a family BBQ.
First off, the design creds go to Shoot That Tiger!, which sounds like either an indie band or someone’s overzealous cat. Either way, kudos for making it look cool enough to grab attention on a dusty shelf. But hey, we’re here for the tunes, right? Let’s dive into the meat and potatoes—or maybe just the fries since there are only two songs.
Track 1: Sunshine Of Your Love (Previously Unreleased Extended Version)
Ah yes, Sunshine Of Your Love. If you’ve ever heard Cream’s original version from the ‘60s, you know this track is basically rock royalty. This extended cut feels like Clapton took the song out back, gave it a fresh coat of paint, and added some extra swagger. It’s got that iconic riff—duh—but stretches things out with solos so smooth they could charm their way past airport security without ID.
Why does it stick? Because sometimes all you need is a guitar solo that makes you feel like you're flying down a highway with no speed limit. And honestly, if this doesn’t make you air-guitar in your living room, check your pulse—you might be dead.
Track 2: Tearin’ Us Apart
Now, onto Tearin’ Us Apart. This one hits different. Imagine Clapton sitting in a dimly lit studio, channeling every breakup he’s ever had (and let’s face it, the guy's been through enough drama to fill a Netflix docuseries). The vocals have grit; the lyrics tug at your heartstrings like an overeager puppy begging for scraps.
What makes this track memorable? Well, it’s raw. Like, “forgot-to-shave-and-my-coffee-spilled” raw. You can almost picture him sweating under studio lights while laying down these emotional hot takes. Plus, the chorus sticks in your brain like gum on a shoe—it’s catchy, kinda messy, but impossible to ignore.
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So yeah, this isn’t some sprawling concept album with twenty tracks and existential musings. Nope, it’s short, sweet, and straight to the point. Two songs, both dripping with Clapton’s signature style. Is it groundbreaking? Not really. But does it deliver solid Classic Rock vibes? Absolutely.
Reflection time: Listening to this feels like finding an old mixtape in your car’s glove compartment. Sure, it’s not perfect, but it reminds you why you fell in love with rock music in the first place. Oh, and fun fact—the label, Castle Music Pictures, sounds less like a record company and more like where Prince Charming auditions happen. Just saying.
Final verdict? Worth a spin if you’re craving some guitar-heavy nostalgia. Or if you just want to annoy your neighbors with loud riffs. Your call.