The Road To Escondido by J.J. Cale (CD, Nov-2006, Reprise)

It’s hard to imagine that Eric Clapton owes anybody a legacy thank you, but after listening to this
collaborative effort with J.J. Cale, the listener is reminded who wrote Clapton’s first hit: “After Midnight.” Even more than that, the same key and delivery of both are as harmonious as CSNY was diverse. J.J. Cale, to the cult initiated, is a hermit rocker who refused to compromise, seldom did large venues, and influenced others such as Mark Knopfler and Lynnyrd Skynnyrd as well as Clapton, with his unique ringing guitar phrasing.

Which brings us to what I think is one of the top records of the year: “The Road To Escondido.” There is a fresh uniqueness to the music that epitomizes the term: Americana Rock. Cale nailed it early in the 70’s with such hits as “Cocaine,” “They Call Me the Breeze,” “ Crazy Mama” and many more underground hits. While Cale and Clapton are indistinguishable in vocals, the songwriting is all Cale. He write all the songs on here except one.

So what kind of supporting cast helped these rock legends? Derek Trucks, Doyle Bramhall II, John Mayer, and Albert Lee all play guitar. The late Billie Preston sadly laid some of his last tracks on this cd while playing keyboards. Personally, I was hoping for a more ‘live’ feel, and this cd has the homegrown feel of a relaxed Clapton album while still being a tad more slick than advisable.

This music is a fine introduction to ‘Roots Rock (or Americana if you prefer.) Every song on the cd clicks, and is assembled so they naturally flow into each other. If you liked the Traveling Wilburys sound with George Harrison, Dylan, Tom Petty & crew, you will thoroughly enjoy this November 2006 release.

Jeff Feezle

I wanted this new CD but didn't want to go the mall to get it, and I had some $$$ in my pay pal account so I bought it on ebay. That's what I like about it, I love it as I am a fan of both of them, and there is nothing I dislike about it. I bought it because I wanted it and it was convieneint, after all, I was allready on ebay doing other business, ebay is the greatest, don't change a thing!!
Thanks, Drew Case

If you want a CD with a wide range of music - this is it! Cale and Clapton go together like fine wine and cheese. From their bluesy collaboration to their high energy melodies they are just the best. You can see why Clapton doesn't listen to current music. He is busy creating the best of the best without outside interference. The touching song that references the tragedy of his son's death to the delight of his 3 little girls is my favorite without being schmaltzy.
You will love this fantastic mix of different styles, genres and tempos!

I saw this CD on the Early Show one Sunday morning and decided to purchase it. The CD ia fabulous, I never knew the history behind Cale and Clapton. I would highly recommend this CD.

Below average but just not what I expected. It sounded better on t.v. As for entering more comments forget it. Not worth my time.

I bought this CD to hear more of JJ Cale's and Eric Clapton's compositions and their musical interaction. JJ does have the majority of representation here, but little did I know that John Mayer's and Brownie McGhee's pen would be included. I wasn't dissapointed! These songs have the lyrical content & musical foundation for an audible journey these "old pros", and their all-star cast of musicians, always seem to give us. Blues, Rock-N-Roll, even Rockabilly on one number. Thank you JJ & Eric!

This is a very good cd. It is an older type of music, but very good. I love both singers and musicians and this is the best of both. I read about it in E.C.'s book and am very pleased with it.

Good mix of songs, of which many were written neither by Clapton nor Cale. But, a CD you can play all the way through, without having to skip tracks, because they work as one and keep the mood. First JJ Cale CD I remember listening to--now find myself looking for more of his work. For fans of
Clapton's song "Heaven," there is "Three Little Girls"--another touching
song.

As one would expect this is an excellent CD! As a long time fan of both Clapton and Cale, I was not disappointed. The music is done with attention to detail and slow, smooth, licks by both artists. This CD sounds exactly like you would imagine Cale and Clapton to sound before even slippin it in to the player! You can't go wrong with this CD!

I warmed up to this collaboration. My initial reaction was so-so, but after listening a few more times, I've gotten into the rhythm of it. I heard a portion of an interview with Clapton which prompted me to buy it. JJ Cale teamed with Eric Clapton felt like a jam session in my home. These two legends are comfortable with where they've been and where they are now. They play as though whatever happens tomorrow is just icing. The music was fresh, natural and fun.