It’s almost easy to overlook “Just Can’t Get to You,” since it’s nestled between the prog/jazz-rock giants “Drag Him to The Roof” and “Dave’s Gone Skiing” on Toto’s 1995 album Tambu.
To do so, however, would be a mistake as “Just Can’t Get to You” ranks among Toto’s best ballads. Written by Glen Ballard with Steve Lukather and David Paich, the song fits right in the organic motif of most of the album with touches of Fender Rhodes piano by Paich, acoustic piano from Lukather and soulfully understated backing vocals from Lukather, Jenny Douglas-McRae and John James.
What little electric guitar there is supports of the delicate melody and Steve Lukather’s acoustic guitar and vocals are deservedly at the forefront. Simon Phillips and Mike Porcaro tie the song together as Lukather sings the heartfelt lyrics (with a significant contribution by Glen Ballard), as only he can.
“Just Can’t Get to You” doesn’t break any new ground for Toto, but it does show that the band is still able to forge ahead with a ballad worthy of inclusion on any of their previous albums. It’s a welcome contrast to the next song, “Dave’s Gone Skiing.”
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