J.J. Cale's '8 Eight' is a 1983 American rock masterpiece. As the eighth album by this blues-rock legend, it showcases Cale's distinctive style. Side One features tracks like 'Money Talks' and 'Hard Times,' with Side Two offering gems like 'Trouble in the City' and 'Teardrops on my Tequila.' With its laid-back, bluesy charm, '8 Eight' is a testament to Cale's enduring musical prowess
J.J. Cale's 1983 album "#8" marked a subtle yet interesting shift in the artist's musical direction. While still rooted in his signature blues-rock sound, this album saw Cale exploring deeper lyrical territory with touches of social commentary amidst his usual relaxed grooves.
The early 1980s was a period of economic uncertainty and social unrest. Echoes of this find their way into "#8" with tracks like "Unemployment" and "Trouble In the City" offering a bluesy take on the struggles of the working class. It was an uncharacteristic move for Cale, whose lyrics usually focused more on personal experiences and a laid-back philosophy.
However, "#8" isn't all social critique. Songs like "Money Talks" and "Reality" have a funkier edge, showing Cale exploring new textures with synthesizers and drum machines. While purists might've balked at the shift, it demonstrates a willingness to playfully experiment even later in his career. Meanwhile, tracks like "Takin' Care of Business" retain that classic Tulsa Sound groove that made Cale an underground legend.
Musically, "#8" features an ensemble cast of talented session players. Cale, the undisputed frontman, surrounded himself with skilled musicians such as bassist Tim Drummond, drummer Jim Keltner, and Christine Lakeland on guitar and vocals. This collaborative effort produced a polished yet soulful soundscape fitting for Cale's musical explorations.
As in previous albums, J.J. Cale embraced a mix of studio environments for recording "#8." Some tracks were cut at the famed Sound Emporium in Nashville, while others were recorded closer to home, showcasing Cale's tendency to work in spaces that fueled his creativity.
J.J. Cale's aversion to the limelight and his quiet personality have always been a point of interest. He was more comfortable letting his music speak for itself. While not a source of major controversy, it certainly made him an intriguing figure in the industry.
Music Genre: American Blues Rock |
Album Production Information: The album: "J.J. Cale - 8 Eight" was produced by: Audie Ashworth and JJ CaleSound/Recording Engineer(s): Chad Hailey, Rock Horton, Paul Brown This album was recorded at:Amigo, The Alley, Columbia Recording Studio Mastered by Eddy Schreyer at Capitol Studios Eddy Schreyer, a highly skilled mastering engineer and the proud owner of Oasis Mastering, located in Studio City, California, has garnered a remarkable reputation in the music industry over the course of his illustrious career. With over 30 years of experience under his belt, Schreyer has mastered thousands of music albums, leaving an indelible mark on the sound of numerous artists across various genres. Born and raised with a deep passion for music, Eddy Schreyer's journey into the world of audio engineering began at a young age. He discovered his love for the technical aspects of sound while tinkering with recording equipment and exploring the nuances of music production. Fascinated by the transformative power of mastering, Schreyer dedicated himself to honing his skills and embarked on a path that would lead him to become one of the most sought-after mastering engineers in the industry. After completing his formal education in audio engineering, Eddy Schreyer's career took off when he joined the renowned Capitol Studios in Hollywood. Working at Capitol Studios provided him with invaluable opportunities to collaborate with esteemed artists and refine his craft. During his time there, Schreyer developed a keen ear for detail and an intuitive understanding of how to enhance the sonic qualities of each recording he encountered. In 1996, driven by an entrepreneurial spirit and a desire to create his own artistic haven, Eddy Schreyer established Oasis Mastering. His vision was to create a space where artists could achieve the sonic excellence they envisioned for their music. With his technical expertise, exceptional attention to detail, and a commitment to delivering superior sound quality, Schreyer quickly gained recognition as a trusted and respected mastering engineer. Oasis Mastering, under Schreyer's guidance, became a destination for musicians and record labels seeking the finest quality in audio post-production. Schreyer's mastery of the delicate art of mastering allowed him to breathe new life into countless albums, helping artists achieve greater clarity, depth, and emotional impact in their music. His dedication to preserving the artist's vision while elevating the overall sound has made him an invaluable collaborator for both established acts and emerging talents. Eddy Schreyer's extensive discography boasts an impressive array of acclaimed projects spanning multiple genres, including rock, pop, hip-hop, jazz, and classical music. Some of the notable artists and bands he has worked with include Beyoncé, Paul McCartney, Kendrick Lamar, Radiohead, Mary J. Blige, and many more. His contributions to these projects have earned him numerous accolades and the admiration of peers in the music industry. Beyond his mastering work, Eddy Schreyer is known for his commitment to sharing his knowledge and expertise with aspiring audio engineers. He has conducted workshops and seminars, mentoring the next generation of professionals, and sharing insights into the art and science of mastering. With an unwavering dedication to his craft and a relentless pursuit of sonic perfection, Eddy Schreyer continues to shape the music industry with his unparalleled expertise and artistic sensibilities. His legacy as a revered mastering engineer and the owner of Oasis Mastering remains firmly etched in the world of music history, leaving an indelible mark on the soundscape of countless albums and artists. |
Record Label & Catalognr: Mercury 811 152 1 |
Media Format: 12" LP Vinyl Stereo Gramophone RecordTotal Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram |
Year & Country: 1983 Made in France |
Complete Track-listing of the album "J.J. Cale - 8 Eight" |
The detailed tracklist of this record "J.J. Cale - 8 Eight" is:
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Note: The photos on this page are taken from albums in my personal collection. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone ).
"8" Record Label Details: Black Colour MERCURY 811 152.1, SACEM, SDRM ℗ 1983 Phonogram International B.V. Barneveld Sound Copyright
J.J. Cale's fifth studio album, titled simply "5", was released in 1979. This wasn't a flashy era of music, disco and punk were dominating the charts, but Cale's work always carved its own path. "5" was a continuation of his unique blend of laid-back blues, rock, and a hint of country
#5 V 12" Vinyl LP
J.J. Cale's 1983 album "#8" marked a subtle yet interesting shift in the artist's musical direction. While still rooted in his signature blues-rock sound, this album saw Cale exploring deeper lyrical territory with touches of social commentary amidst his usual relaxed grooves.
8 Eight 12" Vinyl LP
J.J. Cale, the architect of the laid-back "Tulsa Sound," was known for his bluesy rock with a hint of country twang. This Swiss pressing of "Cocaine" showcased that sound perfectly. The A-side, a cover of Eric Clapton's hit, stripped away the bombast, revealing the song's raw groove and Cale's signature
Cocaine 7" Vinyl Single
J.J. Cale's 'Okie' is a 1974 American folk-pop-rock masterpiece released under Shelter Records. Produced and recorded by Audie Ashworth, it features a stellar lineup of musicians, including Mike Leech, Kenny Malone, and Reggie Young.
- Okie (1974, Germany) - Okie Italien release (1980, Italy)
J.J. Cale's 1981 album "Shades" continued his exploration of the laid-back, blues-infused sound that made him a legend. Released in the aftermath of the punk and disco era, "Shades" is a testament to Cale's commitment to a timeless sound and his refusal to chase musical fads.
Shades 12" Vinyl LP
Released in 1984, "Special Edition" isn't a studio album in the traditional sense, but rather a handpicked compilation of J.J. Cale's best-loved tracks along with a few deeper cuts. This album offers a window into the world of an enigmatic musician whose influence often outshone his commercial success.
Special Edition 12" Vinyl LP