Meanwhile cover

Meanwhile

Eric Clapton · 2024

64 min · 14 tracks · blues

A reflective blend of blues and rock, intertwining heartfelt lyrics with Clapton's signature guitar work across diverse melodies.

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Top tracks — play these first

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    Pompous Fool Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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    Heart of a Child — This track stands out for its introspective lyrics that explore vulnerability and innocence, paired with a soulful melody that highlights Clapton's emotional delivery.
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    Always on My Mind — A cover that captures the essence of longing and regret, Clapton’s rendition infuses the classic with a bluesy twist that feels both fresh and familiar.
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    This Has Gotta Stop — This song addresses pressing social issues with urgency, showcasing Clapton's shift towards more politically charged content while retaining his signature sound.
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    Smile — The uplifting nature of this track contrasts with some of the heavier themes in the album, offering a moment of lightness through its catchy chorus and melodic hooks.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady pacing for reflection
  • heartfelt moments of introspection
  • balanced emotional progression throughout
  • for late-night listening
  • thoughtful themes of love and

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer upbeat and fast tracks
  • want instant gratification in music

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Late Career Highlight — Marks Clapton's return after five years, showcasing his continued relevance and songwriting depth.
Themes
social urgency· childhood nostalgia· introspective songwriting
Career context
In 2024, Eric Clapton released 'Meanwhile' as his first album in five years, following the well-received 'I Still Do' in 2017. This period marked a significant return for Clapton, who had been less active due to health issues but continued to evolve creatively and personally.
Stylistic neighbors
Gary Moore· Joe Bonamassa· John Mayer
New to Eric Clapton? Find your way in →

Tracklist

Disc 1

  • 1 Pompous Fool Start here 4:45
  • 2 Heart of a Child 7:04
  • 3 Moon River 5:06
  • 4 Sam Hall 5:27
  • 5 Smile 3:46
  • 6 Always on My Mind 3:37

Disc 2

  • 1 One Woman 4:50
  • 2 The Rebels 4:08
  • 3 The Call 5:07
  • 4 How Could We Know 4:19
  • 5 This Has Gotta Stop 4:23
  • 6 Stand and Deliver 4:30
  • 7 You’ve Changed 3:52
  • 8 Misfortune 3:26

What to play next

I Still Do
Listen next

I Still Do

2016

Continues the reflective blues and rock vibe with heartfelt themes.
Old Sock
Go back to

Old Sock

2013

Sets the stage with a similar mix of styles and personal storytelling.
Full Eric Clapton discography Where to start with Eric Clapton Artists like Eric Clapton
hard rock jazz fusion psychedelic rock

If this landed

Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.

Continuum

Continuum

John Mayer

Shares a reflective blend of blues and rock with introspective lyrics and emotive guitar work.

You Want It Darker

You Want It Darker

Leonard Cohen

Features profound introspection and social urgency, wrapped in a somber, blues-influenced sound.

Blues of Desperation

Blues of Desperation

Joe Bonamassa

Combines heartfelt songwriting with a rich blues palette, echoing themes of nostalgia and personal struggle.

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata