Cale, J.J.: Troubadour (CD)

Troubadour is J.J. Cale's fourth album, and was released in 1976. It was on this album that the song "Cocaine" (later a hit for Eric Clapton) made its first appearance. Over the course of his first few albums, Cale clearly delineated who he was as a writer, singer, and guitarist.

Troubador continues that careful delineation. The set's second number, "Travelin' Light," is a perfect introduction to J.J. Cale's craft. It's powered by a groove at once relentless and laid back. There are surprises throughout, including "Ride Me High," which is a deceptively complicated song that undulates as it rolls along. The album's one cover version is "I'm A Gypsy Man" by Sonny Curtis. As always, the cover fits Cale like a pair of comfortable old sneakers.

1. Hey Baby
2. Travelin' Light
3. You Got Something
4. Ride Me High
5. Hold On
6. Cocaine
7. I'm A Gypsy Man
8. The Woman That Got Away
9. Super Blue
10. Let Me Do It To You
11. Cherry
12. You Got Me On So Bad