About the song
Released in 1967 as part of Cream’s groundbreaking album Disraeli Gears, “SWLABR” is a track that perfectly encapsulates the band’s adventurous spirit and their unique fusion of blues, psychedelic rock, and improvisational jam. Written by Eric Clapton and Jack Bruce, the song stands out for its playful yet complex lyrics, which many interpret as a reflection on love, freedom, and the counterculture movement of the 1960s.
The title itself, “SWLABR”, is an acronym for “She Was Like a Bearded Rainbow”, a phrase that immediately draws attention for its poetic, almost surreal quality. The song is steeped in the psychedelic language of the time, with imagery that conveys a sense of dreamlike fantasy. However, as with many of the songs on Disraeli Gears, the lyrics remain open to interpretation. The song’s narrative seems to describe a whimsical relationship, characterized by an all-encompassing, almost fantastical love that is, in some ways, fleeting and illusory. The narrator reflects on the complexities of this relationship, suggesting a deep sense of longing mixed with confusion. The phrase “She was like a bearded rainbow” could be seen as a metaphor for something beautiful yet elusive, possibly representing the idealized love of the counterculture or the unattainable perfection many sought during the 1960s.
Musically, “SWLABR” blends the signature elements of Cream’s sound—bluesy guitar riffs, intricate bass lines, and the powerful drumming of Ginger Baker. The track opens with a groovy, blues-inflected guitar riff, played by Eric Clapton, which is instantly recognizable to fans of Cream’s work. Clapton’s solos, dripping with emotion and virtuosity, add a layer of tension and release to the song, perfectly complementing the track’s lyrical content. Jack Bruce’s bass lines are dynamic and inventive, providing a solid foundation that allows the other instruments to soar. Baker’s drumming, as always, is intense and fluid, matching the ebb and flow of the track with a sense of urgency and spontaneity that defines much of Cream’s music.
“SWLABR” is quintessentially Cream—a band known for their ability to fuse raw blues with the experimental sounds of the era. While many tracks from Disraeli Gears are drenched in psychedelic effects and sonic experimentation, “SWLABR” retains an upbeat, almost playful energy, with a tight structure that showcases the band’s remarkable musicianship. It’s a song that invites listeners into the vivid, colorful world of 1960s psychedelia, with its swirling guitar licks, energetic rhythm section, and strange yet engaging lyrics.
The song’s cultural impact lies in its ability to capture the mood of the time. Released during the height of the psychedelic rock movement, Disraeli Gears—and by extension, “SWLABR”—became a key influence in shaping the sound of the late 1960s. The track fits seamlessly into the broader context of the counterculture, where experimentation, both in music and in personal freedom, was at the forefront of many people’s minds. The freewheeling nature of the song echoes the ethos of the time—an embrace of individuality, spontaneity, and pushing boundaries.
“SWLABR” also contributed to the rise of Cream as one of the most innovative and influential bands in rock history. Their ability to blend genres, expand the possibilities of live improvisation, and explore new musical landscapes made them key figures in the development of both psychedelic rock and the broader evolution of rock music. Tracks like “SWLABR” remain iconic examples of the band’s ability to merge complex musicality with the free-spirited, exploratory nature of the 1960s.
In conclusion, “SWLABR” is more than just a song—it is a vivid representation of the psychedelic era, encapsulating the experimental, bold, and imaginative ethos of the time. Through its playful lyrics, adventurous musicianship, and eclectic style, Cream was able to push the boundaries of what rock music could be. The track is a perfect example of the band’s unique ability to blend intricate musical craftsmanship with the liberating spirit of the counterculture. Though perhaps not as widely known as some of Cream’s other hits, “SWLABR” remains a beloved piece of their catalog—a testament to the band’s enduring influence on both rock music and the cultural landscape of the 1960s.
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Lyrics
Comin’ to me in the mornin’Leavin’ me at nightComin’ to me in the mornin’Leavin’ me aloneYou’ve got that rainbow feelBut the rainbow has a beardRunnin’ to me a-cryin’When he throws you outRunnin’ to me a-cryin’On your own againYou’ve got that pure feelSuch good responsesBut the picture has a mustacheYou’re comin’ to me with that soulful look on your faceYou’re comin’ lookin’ likeYou never ever done one wrong thingYou’re comin’ to me with that soulful look on your faceYou’re comin’ lookin’ likeYou never ever done one wrong thingSo many fantastic colorsI feel in a wonderlandMany fantastic colorsMakes me feel so goodYou’ve got that pure feelSuch good responsesGot that rainbow feelBut the rainbow has a beard