Watch Eric Clapton: Crossroads Guitar Festival 2004

Eric Clapton: Crossroads Guitar Festival 2004 is a concert film that showcases some of the greatest guitarists in the world. The film is a documentation of the 2004 Crossroads Guitar Festival, which was held at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Texas. The concert is a tribute to the electric guitar and features a diverse lineup of musicians from various genres and generations. The concert is a celebration of the guitar and the musicians who have dedicated their lives to mastering the instrument.

The film starts with an introduction from Eric Clapton, who explains the ethos behind the Crossroads Guitar Festival. The festival is a charity event, with all proceeds going to the Crossroads Centre in Antigua, which is a drug and alcohol rehabilitation center founded by Clapton. Clapton describes the guitar as a "magical instrument" and emphasizes the importance of preserving its legacy.

The concert itself is a tour de force of guitar playing. The film is edited so that it jumps between performances, which keeps the pace of the film fast-paced and engaging. Some of the highlights include a blistering performance by ZZ Top, which features their trademark blues-tinged rock and roll. Jeff Beck also takes the stage and demonstrates why he is considered one of the greatest guitarists of all time. He plays an instrumental version of "Cause We've Ended as Lovers" that showcases his technical prowess and delicate touch.

Eric Clapton himself, of course, is the star of the show. He plays several songs throughout the concert, including his seminal hit "Layla." He is accompanied by a top-notch backing band, and his solos are both soulful and sublime. The concert also includes an emotional tribute to the late blues guitarist Freddie King, with a performance by Joe Bonamassa that highlights King's influence on modern rock guitar playing.

One of the most memorable moments of the concert is a performance by Robert Cray, who is joined on stage by Eric Clapton for a cover of Jimmy Reed's "Baby What You Want Me to Do." The two guitarists complement each other perfectly, and the result is a joyful and upbeat blues song.

The diversity of the musical styles on display is also impressive. Sheryl Crow performs a stripped-down acoustic set that allows her voice to shine. She is joined by Doyle Bramhall II, who is an excellent guitarist in his own right. Indian musician Vishwa Mohan Bhatt also takes the stage, playing a hauntingly beautiful rendition of Raga Puriya Dhanashri on the Mohan Veena. His performance is a testament to the versatility of the guitar and the universality of music.

The concert also features some lesser-known guitarists who hold their own against the big names. Los Lonely Boys, a Tex-Mex trio, play an energetic set that showcases their unique blend of blues, rock, and traditional Mexican music. The gospel-inspired playing of Buddy Guy is also a highlight of the concert.

Throughout the film, the camera work is excellent. The filmmakers make use of a mix of wide shots, close-ups, and slow-motion sequences to capture the energy and intensity of the performances. The sound quality is also superb, with each instrument given its due in the mix.

Eric Clapton: Crossroads Guitar Festival 2004 is a must-see for guitar enthusiasts and music fans alike. The concert is a masterclass in guitar playing and a showcase of the instrument's diversity. The line-up is incredible, and the musicians all give their best performances. The charitable aspect of the festival is also a reminder of the importance of giving back to those in need. The film is a fitting tribute to the guitar and is sure to inspire viewers to pick up the instrument themselves.

Eric Clapton: Crossroads Guitar Festival 2004 is a 2004 musical with a runtime of 4 hours and 1 minute.