Unboxing & Review – “Make My Day: The Rock ‘n’ Roll Story of Fast Eddie Clarke” 4CD Deluxe Box Set
This career-spanning collection shines a light on the legendary guitarist best known for his time with Motörhead, Fastway, and his solo career. The box set, released by BMG, features previously unreleased tracks, demo recordings, and an exhaustive 300-page biography that digs deep into Eddie’s life, both on and off the stage.
The set includes four CDs, chronicling Clarke’s work with Motörhead, including timeless classics like “Overkill” and “Bomber,” as well as his solo material and the bluesy tracks from his earlier days with Curtis Knight and The Muggers. Fast Eddie Clarke’s contributions to rock and metal are undeniable, and this box set serves as a heartfelt tribute to a guitarist who left a lasting mark on heavy music.
The biography included is a massive highlight, co-written by Chris Needs and Clarke’s widow, Mariko Fujiwara. The book offers a personal and detailed exploration of Eddie’s highs and lows—both musically and personally. It’s not just for fans of Motörhead but for anyone curious about a musician whose career spanned decades and styles.
While the box set is beautifully put together, my only reservation is the price point. At over £70, it may feel steep for some, especially since much of the material has been released before. However, for dedicated fans of Fast Eddie Clarke, the sheer quality of the book and the curated tracklist make this an essential piece of memorabilia. My only wish was for a bit more detail in the CD track information; a more comprehensive booklet about the songs, recordings, and band members would have been a nice touch.
That said, this set offers a comprehensive look at Clarke’s guitar work, both in his more famous bands and his solo endeavors. The blues-inspired early tracks with Curtis Knight are especially interesting, showcasing Clarke’s versatility beyond Motörhead’s thunderous riffs.
If you’re an avid fan of classic rock and heavy metal, or a longtime admirer of Fast Eddie Clarke, this box set is worth adding to your collection. It captures the essence of a man who played a significant role in shaping the sound of British heavy rock and metal.
Key Features:
4 CDs featuring rare and unreleased tracks spanning Eddie’s entire career.
300-page biography detailing Eddie’s life and career.
Extensive material from Motörhead, Fastway, and his solo years.
Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine