Breeze: An Appreciation of J.J.Cale

Eric Clapton & Friends

Bushbranch/Surfdog, 2014

The name J.J. Cale may not ring any bells to you folks who listen to music without thinking about the details too much, but if you’ve watched a movie, listened to FM radio or turned on a TV anytime since 1973, you most likely have heard his songs.

A short list of artists who have recorded his songs include Phish, Jerry Garcia, Waylon Jennings, Johnny Cash, Dr. Hook, and the title referencing “Call Me the Breeze” by Lynyrd Skynyrd. Eric Clapton having charted repeatedly with Cale’s songs is in strong competition for fan number 1.

Cale was a notorious homebody who shunned touring and his success as a songwriter afforded him the ability to stay close to the studio. He left the roadwork to others, who were better suited for it.

Most of the songs here are slower and more relaxed. Clapton’s guitar work shines throughout, favoring more laconic, unhurried melodic playing here. “Magnolia” with John Mayer on lead vocal, is sleepy and feels like watching the sunset on a river. “Songbird” features Willie Nelson and feels spontaneous and informal. Mark Knopfler, Tom Petty and Derek Trucks all make appearances here.

It would have been nice to hear some bigger chances taken with the material, but there’s an almost beatific approach here. Obviously, these weren’t just songs to Clapton. Cale was a close friend and he treats these creations lovingly, so we can all continue listening to a man most have never heard of.

-BR-