There was much more to “Fast” Eddie” Clarke‘s name during his four decades in the spotlight with Motorhead than just rock’n’roll excesses. Even his nickname – contrary to popular belief – referred to his trademark tremolo picking, and not to his escapades in the bedroom. Thanks to Sanctuary Records, there is now a comprehensive 320-page biography and a 4-CD box set with compilations of ClarkeThe musical legacy of has been released, offering a deeper understanding of this often overlooked guitar hero.
Clarke is primarily regarded as a forerunner of proto-speed metal and laid the foundation for bands like Poison And Metallica with his groundbreaking riffs during his time with Motorhead. His early years, however, were deeply rooted in the blues-inspired hard and progressive rock of the 1970s, and that is well covered on the first disc of this compilation, with tracks from his time with Curtis Knight‘s progressive rock band Zeusand later with Continuous performancea project with Be-Bop Deluxe Bassist Charlie TumahaiSongs like “Cloud” and “In The Morning” reflect the rich, expansive sound that forms the backbone of bands like Uriah Heep And UFOwith Clarke demonstrates a fluid and expressive guitar style. The CD ends with a raw three-song set of Clarke‘s side project from the late 70s, The Robbersand offers a more familiar taste for those who primarily associate it with MotorheadThe harder sound.
The second CD takes the listeners back to the era that most fans associate with Clarke: his years with the classic Motorhead Occupation, known as the “Three Amigos”, from their debut in 1977 to 1982 Iron FistThis period includes important tracks like “Overkill,” “Ace of Spades,” and “Iron Fist,” but the real treasures lie in the deeper cuts. Rare demos from the bomber Albums like “Lawman” and “Dead Men Tell No Tales” offer a raw, unpolished insight into MotorheadThe band’s early sound captures the raw energy of the band, as if they were performing in a small, intimate venue. ClarkeHis vocal contributions on tracks such as “Step Down” and an alternate version of “Stone Dead Forever” also add a new dimension to the band’s music, with his voice adding a distinct, rock-tinged texture.
The third CD explores Clarke‘s post-Motorhead Career, with a focus on working with Expresswaythe hard rock band he founded in the 80s. Despite the early departure of the bassist Peter Waywhich prevented him from recording with the band, demo tracks such as “All I Need Is Your Love” and “Feel Me Touch Me” set the stage, the former reflecting the hard-hitting style of Led Zeppelin‘s “Heartbreaker” and presents the then unknown David King‘s vocal abilities. Remix versions of tracks like “Deliver Me” and “Lovin’ Fool” channel Clarke‘s 70s rock influences are strong, while a live performance of 2007’s “Easy Livin'” underscores his enduring talent. More polished tracks like “Trick Of Treat” and “Change Of Heart” mark some of his best post-Motorhead Guitar work that tends more towards the melodic, AOR-heavy sound of the era.
In ClarkeIn his later years, his music was imbued with a sense of nostalgia, as the solo material on the fourth CD shows. Newly recorded versions of tracks such as “Snakebite” and “Laugh At The Devil” take up the classic Motorhead Sound, with “Snakebite” channeling the high-octane energy of “Ace of Spades” while “Laugh At The Devil” ramps up the intensity, with Lemmy and provides even more bite with his singing. ClarkeHis guitar work stands out on bluesy tracks like “All Over Bar The Shouting” and the boastful “No Satisfaction,” offering a definitive insight into his talent as both a guitarist and singer. The CD ends with tracks reminiscent of Clarke‘s pre-Motorhead progressive era, with keyboarder Bill Sharpebut with a heavier, more modern touch.
Provides a detailed insight into “Fast Eddie” Clarke‘s career, this posthumous collection offers a comprehensive look at his enormous contributions to rock and metal, which truly deserve a wider appreciation. The accompanying biography by rock journalist Kris Needs and Clarke‘s widow Mariko Fujiwara provides a detailed insight into ClarkeLife and career, from his early inspiration at a Yardbirds Concert to his success with Curtis Knight, Motorhead, Expresswayand his solo work. While his music seems firmly rooted in classic hard rock, this 46-track release paints a more comprehensive picture of a guitarist who influenced significant change while staying true to his roots, supported by the talented musicians he worked with. Most importantly, it captures the human side of Clarkehighlighted by a recorded message from him at the beginning of the musical content, offering a final word of encouragement from beyond the grave.
