Troubadour

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.