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Eric Clapton

This two-LP compilation was a crucial factor in the development of Eric Clapton's solo status at a time when the artist himself was incapacitated by drug problems. Covering the years 1964 to 1970, History was a revelation, weaving together tracks from Clapton's various bands -- the Yardbirds, John Mayall's Bluesbreakers, Cream, Blind Faith, Delaney & Bonnie & Friends, and Derek and the Dominos. Today, with its essential tracks, rarities, and previously unreleased studio jam on "Tell the Truth," plus liner notes, History looks like the prototype for the box set retrospectives of the '80s and '90s. In 1972, it defined Clapton and helped save his career. And it still doesn't make a bad summation of his best work. ~ William Ruhlmann, All Music Guide