A rare pearl - typical JJ

JJ is not among the scribblers. His philosophy - prefer to play a note as two - seems to be true for albums. Dear one than two. Dear few good as a lot of bad. Scarcity increases the value. And if a new CD will be released by JJ, you can be sure that they had to wait only so long in coming, because the multi-instrumentalist (guitar, banjo, synthesizers and more and vocals) had just not previously together enough good songs.

But finally, it is time again. Thirteen Pieces are on this thirteenth studio album since "Naturally" (1971). Thirteen gems that sound all the way to JJ, but were nonetheless enriched with creative touches and sit up again leave. This is especially true for JJ solo-established titles like "Chains Of Love" and "New Lover" and "Rio", the sound of sparkling synth Bläsersätze sometimes at a slight angle, which is probably perceived as awesome upbeat from the fifth Listen. "My Gal" and "Motor Mouth", however, could just as easily come from one of his first albums - here plays JJ, as we know it has always been.

Only four songs, the lyrics in the booklet. They seem to me carefully chosen. "Stone River" is concerned, for example, the exploitation of water resources (They bottled it up and dammed it). "The problem" is an unusual political song, an attack on the leadership of his country (The man in charge has got to go ... he do not know what he's doing ... The problem is the man in charge of you) , And sings a musician from Oklahoma!

64 Winter counts JJ now. That he had become calmer, you can not say - he has always been. "Cool" and "Laid back" are predicates for his music. Stars like Eric Clapton and Dire Straits, he has influenced so. He delighted so many fans. "To Tulsa And Back" continues this tradition continues. If you like relaxing guitar music, the CD should not be missed. It is a highlight of the year. Let's hope that JJ in his life at least make another album.