At 7:30 p.m. this Friday, May 9, the Bell Bottom Blues will present their  “Live Eric Clapton Experience” concert in the Coolidge Theatre at the Deane Center for the Performing Arts at 104 Main Street in Wellsboro.

This New Jersey-based Clapton tribute band is named after “Bell Bottom Blues”, a song Clapton wrote with keyboardist and singer Bobby Whitlock about unrequited love. That song was performed and recorded by Clapton, Whitlock, bassist Carl Radle and drummer Jim Gordon, all founders of Derek and the Dominos, which released it on Nov. 9, 1970 on their double album “Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs.” It was Derek and the Dominos only studio album.

Six band members will recreate Clapton’s “incredible stage presence” and his “awe-inspiring performances” with The Yardbirds, Cream, Blind Faith, Derek and the Dominos, The Beatles and other bands. They will also play many of his classic hits from his decades-long solo career. Among Clapton’s songs on their set list are: “Wonderful Tonight”, “Crossroads”, “Lay Down Sally”, “Layla” “White Room” and “I Shot The Sheriff”. 

“He is one of the greatest, blues and rock guitarists, singers and songwriters of our time,” said Al Caprara who fronts the tribute band. As the Bell Bottom Blues lead singer and lead acoustic and electric guitarist, Caprara emulates the rock icon’s guitar styling. His vocals are spot-on. 

“Our goal is to provide our audience with an authentic recreation of Clapton’s music at every show,” Caprara said. That’s what makes our performances a true live concert experience. Clapton fans have told us if they close their eyes during a show, they could swear they were actually at a Clapton concert.” 

Caprara founded the group 18 years ago in 2007. Other members are: Lou Caprara, drums, vocals; Jon Huey Tatlow, bass guitar, vocals; Maria Adubato, vocals; John Kurdyla, lead guitar; and Charlie Stoddard, keyboards. 

This concert is BYOB with audience members encouraged to bring their favorite beverages and snacks. For tickets, call the Deane Center at 570-724-6220 or visit deanecenter.com. Arrive at 7 p.m. this Friday to purchase tickets, if available, in the Deane Center lobby. Admission is $30.