Album: J J Cale, Roll On (Because)

Some things don't change, and sometimes we should be grateful. This is Cale's 16th solo effort and the first in five years (discounting the 2006 joint venture with Eric Clapton). For those who don't know, Cale embodies the widescreen yet intimate Okie choogle: big horizon, small amplitude, middling tempo – relaxed, wise, blue and boogiferous. This time the great man turns up his rhythm program a notch and boosts his voice in the mix – he even alludes to jazz vocalese on "Who Knew?". But that's your lot.

Pick of the Album: 'Roll On': J J cooks on medium gas with EC again