Closer to You (1994) For more than two decades, this idiosyncratic Oklahoma songwriter (Eric Clapton's "Cocaine" and "After Midnight") has specialized in subdued country shuffles that stress groove over… J.J. Cale
Music Review

Closer to You (1994)

J.J. Cale
Reviewed by Bob Cannon | Aug 26, 1994
EW's GRADE
B-

Details Lead Performance: J.J. Cale

For more than two decades, this idiosyncratic Oklahoma songwriter (Eric Clapton's ''Cocaine'' and ''After Midnight'') has specialized in subdued country shuffles that stress groove over flash. On Closer to You, Cale's laid-back, low-tech approach sounds like Mark Knopfler puttering in the next room. But despite winners like the careening ''Borrowed Time,'' his sleepy delivery is generally more quirky than compelling. B-

Originally posted Aug 26, 1994 Published in issue #237-238 Aug 26, 1994 Order article reprints