Cream, the immensely influential British rock power trio of the 1960s, comprising guitarist Eric Clapton, bassist Jack Bruce, and drummer Ginger Baker, forged an extraordinary partnership with the vibrant city of San Francisco, California. This legendary collaboration unfolded at the iconic Fillmore Auditorium and Winterland venues, where, in the period of February to March 1968, the band’s electrifying live sound was officially captured on tape and film. However, despite its significance, the comprehensive coverage of these historic performances has remained incomplete.
The task of constructing a definitive chronicle of these renowned shows has been impeded by inaccurate documentation and a tragic fire that ravaged the Atlantic Records audio archive in 1978. Nevertheless, recent archival discoveries have provided author Edoardo Genzolini with new insights and a fresh perspective on those remarkable days. In this meticulously crafted book, Genzolini presents a comprehensive and thorough documentation of Cream both on and off the Fillmore and Winterland stages, during those transformative two months of 1968 when they reigned supreme.
Drawing on extensive research, the author delves into the minutiae of each set performed by the band at both venues, meticulously examining the recordings made by Atlantic Records and the film footage captured by the esteemed British documentary filmmaker Tony Palmer. Genzolini’s precise analysis finally unveils the definitive account, shedding light on which live performances ultimately found their way onto various Cream albums. Moreover, this groundbreaking work features a remarkable collection of rare and previously unpublished concert photographs that capture Cream at the zenith of their artistic prowess.
In essence, this book serves as a testament to Cream’s unparalleled musical legacy and their enduring impact on the rock genre. Through painstaking research, meticulous analysis, and the inclusion of captivating visual material, the author provides a comprehensive and long-overdue exploration of Cream’s remarkable journey, transporting readers back to a time when this legendary band truly stood atop the world.
