Cream: The Legendary Sixties Supergroup

by Chris Welch

(Book). Written by Chris Welch, former Melody Maker journalist and Cream confidante, this newly-researched book is the first full account of rock's premiere three-man supergroup: guitarist Eric Clapton, bassist Jack Bruce, and drummer Ginger Baker. From Cream's formation in 1966 to their breakup in 1968, the book analyzes the group's working methods and offers detailed descriptions of all their recordings. A special section explores the musical interactions of Clapton, Bruce and Baker, plus key songwriters Bruce and Pete Brown. With rare full-color photos throughout, it also includes a complete discography, studio sessionography, and diary of live shows.

Genres: Music

344 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 1994

Reviews

[Dave · Rating 5 out of 5]

Highly detailed biography, history and discography of the first heavy metal band Cream along with all of their prior groups and dysfunction.

[Tom Seubert · Rating 3 out of 5]

Overall, a fairly good book, as it explored some of this history of this group. However, I found more about the inner workings, or lack thereof, of the group from reading Clapton's autobiography than I did from this book. This was disappointing. Glad I read it, but will not read it again.

[Herm Stippich · Rating 3 out of 5]

A quick sketch of the band and it’s origins told by an outsider - music critic. A fun read but wanting more depth. Still worthwhile as a starter for a fan of this awesome band!

[KB · Rating 2 out of 5]

Wasn't big on this one. While it does give a decent overview of Cream's career, I don't think it gets detailed enough. There's also a chapter that sort of profiles each member, their backgrounds and playing styles. If you're not a musician, I think a lot of this particular chapter can be glossed over.

My two main takeaways from this book are: 1) the author is a huge fanboy and that doesn't really help in giving a more balanced view; 2) I wouldn't have wanted to ever be in a band with these three. Yikes.

Don't get me wrong - it's not a terrible book by any means, but there's certainly room for improvements in how Cream's story is told.

[Drew · Rating 4 out of 5]

My full and detailed review can be found on my website: http://rnrchemist.blogspot.com/2014/0...

While not perfect, this is a very good book that is the definitive story of the band. The career diary at the end of the book is a great touch and very nice to have. Lots of great photographs as well as some interesting information.

[Patrick Macke · Rating 4 out of 5]

Efficient telling, cool photos, concert playbills, etc. ... The band didn't last long and neither did the book; a small dose of the talented trio was just the ticket

[David John Gray · Rating 5 out of 5]

It happened like yesterday

What a group that was, this book brought back memories like no other
Brilliantly written books like this should always be written.e