J.J. Cale - Troubadour (1076) [Mercury] HQ

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J.J. Cale - Troubadour (1076) [Mercury] HQ

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Notes at cduniverse
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 … Full Descriptionwas 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 is "I'm a Gypsy Man" by Sonny Curtis. As always, the cover fits Cale like a pair of comfortable old sneakers.

Review by William Ruhlmann
Producer Audie Ashworth introduced some different instruments, notably vibes and what sound like horns (although none are credited), for a slightly altered sound on Troubadour. But J.J. Cale's albums are so steeped in his introspective style that they become interchangeable. If you like one of them, chances are you'll want to have them all. This one is notable for introducing "Cocaine," which Eric Clapton covered on his Slowhand album a year later.