Fans of legendary guitarist Eric Clapton are in for a treat as his monumental 2015 Royal Albert Hall performance is now available in breathtaking 4K UHD with the release of Slowhand at 70: Live at the Royal Albert Hall. Released on September 13, 2024, via Mercury Studios, this upgraded version offers an unparalleled viewing and listening experience, bringing one of Clapton’s most celebrated concerts to life with newfound clarity and precision.
Originally released in 2015 on DVD, Blu-ray, 2CD, and 3LP formats, this unforgettable performance marked a milestone in Clapton’s career. Not only was it a celebration of his 70th birthday, but it also marked his 200th performance at the historic Royal Albert Hall. Clapton’s history with this iconic venue dates back to the 1960s with his early days in the Yardbirds, and the synergy between the artist and the hall has been evident ever since. This concert, part of a seven-night run, highlighted his deep connection with the venue and became a defining moment in his live performance legacy.
A Perfect Setlist of Timeless Classics
The setlist for this night was nothing short of extraordinary. A rich mix of blues standards and Clapton’s own hits, it included beloved classics such as “Layla,” “Wonderful Tonight,” and “Tears in Heaven,” as well as a few deep cuts and fan favorites. The performance masterfully showcased Clapton’s deep roots in blues and his genre-defining career as a solo artist. One particular highlight of this release is the bonus performance of “Little Queen of Spades,” which captures the essence of Clapton’s blues prowess.
The chemistry between Clapton and his all-star band was electrifying, adding depth and dynamism to each track. The lineup featured keyboard virtuoso Paul Carrack, legendary drummer Steve Gadd, bassist Nathan East, and guitarists Andy Fairweather Low and Chris Stainton, all of whom contributed to the show’s intimate yet powerful atmosphere. Backing vocals from Michelle John and Sharon White added richness to the performance, creating a multi-layered sound that elevated every note.
A Visual and Sonic Marvel
The leap to 4K UHD brings the 2015 concert to a whole new level of visual and audio brilliance. The crispness of the upgraded visuals immerses viewers in the experience as if they were sitting in the Royal Albert Hall themselves. The enhanced sound quality allows every guitar lick, drum beat, and vocal harmony to be heard with remarkable clarity, making it a true feast for the senses.
Whether you’re revisiting this concert or experiencing it for the first time, Slowhand at 70 is a must-have for any Clapton fan or lover of live music. Clapton’s fluid guitar work, emotional depth, and effortless mastery over the instrument are on full display throughout the night, reminding fans why he remains one of the most respected and revered figures in rock and blues music.
This 4K UHD re-release offers a fitting tribute to a legendary performance, allowing a new generation of fans to experience the magic of Slowhand at 70 in its finest form. For Clapton aficionados, this edition is an essential addition to their collection—a rare opportunity to relive one of the greatest live moments in modern rock history.