Record Reviews

ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND ~ AT FILLMORE EAST (DELUXE EDITION) MERCURY 077353 (Barcode: 044007735329) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock Recorded: 1971 Released: 2003 3rd album, recorded live in 1971 when the Allman Brothers BandFind albums by this artist were at the peak of their creative powers and before a long chain of tragic events that seemed to haunt them later. Considered by many as one of the best Rock / Blues albums ever recorded, certainly one of the best ever live albums. Featuring the dual guitar leads by Duane AllmanFind albums by this artist and Dickey BettsFind albums by this artist exchanging licks of heartbreaking beauty. This edition includes for the first time the entire material recorded at Fillmore with `Mountain Jam` expanded to the original 33+ minutes version. Over 2 and a half hours of pure, unadelturated musical pleasure!

Updated: 18/01/2016Posted:

CD 2 Digipak Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend

ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND ~ DOWN IN TEXAS `71 ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND 821229000219 (Barcode: 821229000219) ~ USA ~ Blues-Rock Recorded: 1971 Released: 2021 This is an archival live album by the iconic American Rock band The Allman Brothers BandFind albums by this artist, recorded on September 28, 1971 at the Austin, TX Municipal Auditorium just a month before the tragic death of Duane Allman. It presents the first lineup of the group, which included the six founding members: guitarist Duane AllmanFind albums by this artist, vocalist / keyboardist Gregg AllmanFind albums by this artist, guitarist Dickey BettsFind albums by this artist, bassist Berry OakleyFind albums by this artist, drummer / percussionist Jai Johanny JohansonFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. JaimoeFind albums by this artist) and drummer Butch TrucksFind albums by this artist. Saxophonist Juicy CarterFind albums by this artist guests on six tracks. The album presents the band’s “usual” set played at the time, with nine tracks, one of which is over fifteen minutes long, and a bonus track with a radio interview with Duane Allman and Berry Oakley, recorded in Huston, TX on June 6, 1971. The music was carefully restored form the original tapes and the sound quality, albeit not nearly perfect, is definitely good enough to enjoy the music. The imminent comparison between this album and the “At Fillmore EastFind albums with this title” is pretty redundant. Each and every performance by the band was completely unique, even if the setlist was pretty stable. The presence of Carter had only a marginal influence on the overall sound and his contributions are hardly audible. The Allman Brothers Band was at the absolute peak of its form, following many concerts and common experiences, and as such produced the ultimate Rock album of all times just a few months earlier. They were an exceptionally gifted group of musicians, who played their hearts out and all this is evident herein. As far as Blues-Rock is concerned, this is simply a brilliant live album. And no, I never get enough of this band… Overall, this is another document of an exceptional band, and the times, when Rock was King and Gods were smiling at the gifted musicians, who produced timeless anthems, such as this. Rock improvisation, which is the name of the game here, never sounded better and is still light-years ahead of anything played today.

Updated: 11/01/2025Posted: 11/01/2025

CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend

ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND ~ EAT A PEACH CAPRICORN 531261 ~ USA ~ Classic Rock 4th album (recorded 1971-72) and the first release following Duane AllmanFind albums by this artist´s tragic death. Originally released as a double LP, it contains 3 different sessions: studio recordings completed while Duane was still alive, studio recordings completed by the band without Duane and live recordings from the Fillmore East (included also on the DeLuxe edition of the Fillmore East album). In retrospect it is a magnificent album, full of brilliant performances and vital energy with a drop of bitter sadness. Classic stuff!

Updated: 18/01/2016Posted:

CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend

ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND ~ EAT A PEACH (DELUXE EDITION) MERCURY 987784 (Barcode: 602498778494) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock Recorded: 1971 Released: 2006 4th album by Allman Brothers BandFind albums by this artist and the first release following Duane AllmanFind albums by this artist´s tragic death. Originally released as a double LP, it contains 4 different sessions: studio recordings completed while Duane was still alive, studio recordings completed by the band without Duane, live recordings at the Fillmore East, recorded in March 1971 and included also on the Deluxe edition of the Fillmore East album and finally live recordings at Fillmore East, recorded in June 1971, which was Duane’s last live recording. In retrospect it is a magnificent album, full of brilliant performances and vital energy with a drop of bitter sadness of course. This is classic stuff, which deserves a permanent position in any decent music library. The new exquisite edition includes the entire June 1971 Fillmore East concert, released here for the first time. As the Allmans were first a foremost a live band, this new material is, as usual, a gold mine of musical thrills. Essential!

Updated: 18/01/2016Posted:

CD 2 Digipak Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend

ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND ~ FILLMORE EAST, FEBRUARY 1970 (DELUXE EDITION) ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND 821229000011 (Barcode: 821229000011) ~ USA ~ Blues-Rock Recorded: 1970 Released: 2018 This is an expanded reissue / remaster of the live album by the iconic American Rock group The Allman Brothers BandFind albums by this artist, released originally as a single CD in 1996. It presents the first lineup of the group, which included the six founding members: guitarist Duane AllmanFind albums by this artist, vocalist / keyboardist Gregg AllmanFind albums by this artist, guitarist Dickey BettsFind albums by this artist, bassist Berry OakleyFind albums by this artist, drummer / percussionist Jai Johanny JohansonFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. JaimoeFind albums by this artist) and drummer Butch TrucksFind albums by this artist. The album was recorded at the Fillmore East in NY almost exactly one year before the iconic live album “At Fillmore EastFind albums with this title” album was recorded. The music was recorded by the great soundman Owsley StanleyFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. Owsley “Bear” StanleyFind albums by this artist), who was Grateful DeadFind albums by this artist’s soundman for many years, and his recordings were released under the “Bear’s Sonic Journals” moniker, including this album. The original 1996 edition, which is a compilation of material recorded during the three nights Allmans played at the Fillmore East, February 11,13 and 14, 1970, was expanded by additional 2 CDs with the entire surviving material from those three nights, all restored and remastered, offering a superb sound quality. The imminent comparison between this album and the “At Fillmore East” is pretty redundant. One year later the band was at the absolute peak of its form, following many concerts and common experiences, and as such produced the ultimate Rock album of all times. But already at the time this music was recorded, Allman Brothers Band were an exceptionally gifted group of musicians, who played their hearts out and all this is evident herein. As far as Blues-Rock is concerned, this is simply a brilliant live album. And no, I never get enough of this band… Overall, this is a brilliant document of an exceptional band, and the times, when Rock was King and Gods were smiling at the gifted musicians, who produced timeless anthems, such as this. Rock improvisation, which was the name of the game here, never sounded better and is still light-years ahead of anything played today.

Updated: 24/03/2023Posted: 20/02/2023

CD 3 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend

ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND ~ FILLMORE WEST `71 ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND 821229000042 (Barcode: 821229000042) ~ USA ~ Blues-Rock Recorded: 1971 Released: 2019 This is an archival live album by the iconic American Rock group The Allman Brothers BandFind albums by this artist, recorded during their weekend (three nights) residence at the San Francisco’s Fillmore West on January 29, 30 and 31, 1971, just six weeks before the band recorded their seminal / iconic live album “At Fillmore EastFind albums with this title”. It presents the first lineup of the group, which included the six founding members: guitarist Duane AllmanFind albums by this artist, vocalist / keyboardist Gregg AllmanFind albums by this artist, guitarist Dickey BettsFind albums by this artist, bassist Berry OakleyFind albums by this artist, drummer / percussionist Jai Johanny JohansonFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. JaimoeFind albums by this artist) and drummer Butch TrucksFind albums by this artist. The album presents the entire sets of each night, with the first night on CD 1, the second on CD 2 and the third on CD 3 & 4, which also includes a 45 minutes long version of “Mountain Jam” recorded almost a year earlier (March 13, 1970) at The Warehouse in New Orleans. The music was carefully restored form the original tapes and the sound quality, albeit not perfect, is definitely good enough to enjoy the music without any hitch. The imminent comparison between this album and the “At Fillmore East” is pretty redundant. Each and every performance by the band was completely unique, even if the setlist was pretty stable. The Allman Brothers Band was at the absolute peak of its form, following many concerts and common experiences, and as such produced the ultimate Rock album of all times just a few weeks later. They were an exceptionally gifted group of musicians, who played their hearts out and all this is evident herein. As far as Blues-Rock is concerned, this is simply a brilliant live album. And no, I never get enough of this band… Overall, this is a dazzling document of an exceptional band, and the times, when Rock was King and Gods were smiling at the gifted musicians, who produced timeless anthems, such as this. Rock improvisation, which is the name of the game here, never sounded better and is still light-years ahead of anything played today.

Updated: 24/03/2023Posted: 24/03/2023

CD 4 Mini-Sleeve Remastered Recommend To A Friend

ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND ~ IDLEWILD SOUTH (45TH ANNIVERSARY SUPER DELUXE EDITION) MERCURY 602547346476 (Barcode: 602547346476) ~ USA ~ Pop & Rock Recorded: 1970 Released: 2015 This is a remastered / expanded reissue of "Idlewild SouthFind albums with this title", the second studio album by The Allman Brothers BandFind albums by this artist, originally released in September 1970. The Allman Brothers Band was America´s greatest ever Rock band, which combined superb songwriting, instrumental virtuosity and Rock improvisation in a way that no other American band was able to reiterate ever since. This edition adds five bonus tracks (two outtakes and two alternate takes, all previously unreleased, and a mono single version of one of the album´s songs). In addition this edition also includes the monumental live album "Live At Ludlow Garage 1970Find albums with this title", expanded by one previously unreleased track, which lasts about fifteen minutes. Considering the fact that the live album, recorded on April 11, 1970 (it was released only in 1990), was captured for posterity during the recording sessions of "Idlewild South", which lasted between February and July of 1970, produced by the legendary Tom DowdFind albums by this artist, it is an integral part of the band´s musical statement at that point of time and combining these two albums here makes perfect sense. The personnel on both albums features guitarist Duane AllmanFind albums by this artist, guitarist Dickey BettsFind albums by this artist, keyboardist / vocalist Gregg AllmanFind albums by this artist, bassist Berry OakleyFind albums by this artist, drummer Jai Johanny JohansonFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. JaimoeFind albums by this artist) and drummer Butch TrucksFind albums by this artist. The studio album also features harmonica / percussion player Thom DoucetteFind albums by this artist. Most of the material performed by the band was written by Gregg Allman, Duane Allman and Betts, but included also the band´s versions of classic Blues anthems. In addition to the studio and live albums, this set also includes a Blu-Ray Pure Audio disc, with high definition sound mixes of the studio album and the four unreleased outtakes / alternate takes. Also included is an in-depth essay about the band by John LynskeyFind albums by this artist, with many photographs and detailed information about this set´s contents. This set in only the second best piece of music by The Allman Brothers Band, next to the celebrated "The 1971 Fillmore East RecordingsFind albums with this title", the recently expanded live album, which is absolutely the best live Rock album of all times. They don´t make music like that any more, that is a fact, and therefore the best we can do is listen for what the past left us as a legacy of our generation´s Culture. Thanks to the miracle of sound recording, even if music (and our Culture) continues to disintegrate as it does now, there is enough great music already recorded to last for eternity. This is just one of the eternal treasures.

Updated: 29/01/2019Posted: 30/05/2016

3CD+DVD 4 Mini-Sleeve Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend

ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND ~ LIVE FROM A&R STUDIOS ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND 821229111625 (Barcode: 821229111625) ~ USA ~ Blues-Rock Recorded: 1971 Released: 2016 This is an archival live album by the iconic American Rock group The Allman Brothers BandFind albums by this artist, recorded for a radio broadcast on August 26, 1971 at the A&R Studios in NY. The Allmans were in top form, following the explosive success of their seminal / iconic live album “At Fillmore EastFind albums with this title” recorded half a year earlier, and of course completely oblivious of the forthcoming tragedy which was about to strike with the death of Duane AllmanFind albums by this artist just two months later. It presents the first lineup of the group, which included the six founding members: guitarist Duane Allman, vocalist / keyboardist Gregg AllmanFind albums by this artist, guitarist Dickey BettsFind albums by this artist, bassist Berry OakleyFind albums by this artist, drummer / percussionist Jai Johanny JohansonFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. JaimoeFind albums by this artist) and drummer Butch TrucksFind albums by this artist. The album presents the entire set of that recording session, nine tracks of superb playing by the band, with two extended tracks running eleven and nineteen minutes respectively. The music was carefully restored form the original tapes and the sound quality is as perfect, as the forty-five years old tapes were able to capture it at the time, which is definitely good enough to enjoy the music without any hitch. During the performance the band pay tribute to their friend, saxophonist King CurtisFind albums by this artist, who was tragically murdered just a few days earlier. They included a medley of two songs in his memory, which is the longest track on this album and which includes what can be considered as the most monumental guitar solo by Duane Allman. As far as Blues-Rock is concerned, this is simply a brilliant live album. And no, I never get enough of this band… Overall, this is a dazzling document of an exceptional band, and the times, when Rock was King and Gods were smiling at the gifted musicians, who produced timeless anthems, such as this. Rock improvisation, which is the name of the game here, never sounded better and is still light-years ahead of anything played today.

Updated: 26/03/2023Posted: 26/03/2023

CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend

ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND ~ MANLEY FIELD HOUSE, SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY, APRIL 7, 1972 ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND 821229000394 (Barcode: 821229000394) ~ USA ~ Blues-Rock Recorded: 1972 Released: 2023 This is an archival live 2CD album by the iconic American Rock group The Allman Brothers BandFind albums by this artist, recorded some five month following the tragic Death of Duane AllmanFind albums by this artist, with the group following heroically as a quintet, led by keyboardist / vocalist Gregg AllmanFind albums by this artist and including the original members: guitarist Dickey BettsFind albums by this artist, bassist Berry OakleyFind albums by this artist, drummer / percussionist Jai Johanny JohansonFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. JaimoeFind albums by this artist) and drummer Butch TrucksFind albums by this artist. The album presents the entire set including an introduction and eleven tracks with the classic material that the group played at all gigs at the time. Two tracks last for over fifteen minutes and one for over twenty minutes, offering extensive instrumental improvisations, which characterized the live performances of the group. Obviously the loss of Duane makes its mark, but the quintet lineup performs remarkably well, displaying the usual high energy and dedication, which makes this music completely time resistant. The recording quality is absolutely fabulous, and allows the listener to enjoy the atmosphere and excitement of the event in full. Although this album does not add anything that the Allman Brother Band followers were not exposed to previously, but the character of the group and the individual talents were such a unique phenomenon that in retrospect every second of music performed by them is absolutely worth being remembered for posterity, and perhaps even studied by contemporary musicians, who have a hard time trying to create anything as remarkable and lasting as what can be heard here. Overall, this is another precious time capsule of Rock history, which captures music created by some of the greatest heroes of the genre, which over five decades after it was recorded sounds infinitely better that anything created today. It is a superb example of Rock improvisation at its best, as well as sublime songwriting and Blues-Rock tradition. An obvious must to all ABB aficionados, but all music lovers should find this enormously entertaining.

Updated: 26/03/2024Posted: 26/03/2024

CD 2 Mini-Sleeve Remastered Recommend To A Friend

ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND ~ SYRIA MOSQUE, PITTSBURGH, PA JANUARY 17, 1971 ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND 821229000363 (Barcode: 821229000363) ~ USA ~ Blues-Rock Recorded: 1971 Released: 2022 This is an archival live album by the iconic American Rock band The Allman Brothers BandFind albums by this artist, recorded just a couple om months before the band recorded their seminal / iconic live album “At Fillmore EastFind albums with this title”. It presents the first lineup of the group, which included the six founding members: guitarist Duane AllmanFind albums by this artist, vocalist / keyboardist Gregg AllmanFind albums by this artist, guitarist Dickey BettsFind albums by this artist, bassist Berry OakleyFind albums by this artist, drummer / percussionist Jai Johanny JohansonFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. JaimoeFind albums by this artist) and drummer Butch TrucksFind albums by this artist. The album presents the band’s “usual” set played at the time, with eight tracks, two of which are over fourteen minutes long and one is over twenty minutes long. The music was carefully restored form the original tapes and the sound quality, albeit not perfect, is definitely good enough to enjoy the music without any hitch. The imminent comparison between this album and the “At Fillmore East” is pretty redundant. Each and every performance by the band was completely unique, even if the setlist was pretty stable. The Allman Brothers Band was at the absolute peak of its form, following many concerts and common experiences, and as such produced the ultimate Rock album of all times just a few weeks later. They were an exceptionally gifted group of musicians, who played their hearts out and all this is evident herein. As far as Blues-Rock is concerned, this is simply a brilliant live album. And no, I never get enough of this band… Overall, this is a dazzling document of an exceptional band, and the times, when Rock was King and Gods were smiling at the gifted musicians, who produced timeless anthems, such as this. Rock improvisation, which is the name of the game here, never sounded better and is still light-years ahead of anything played today.

Updated: 20/12/2024Posted: 20/12/2024

CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend

ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND ~ THE 1971 FILLMORE EAST RECORDINGS MERCURY 602537736935 (Barcode: 602537736935) ~ USA ~ Blues-Rock Recorded: 1971 Released: 2014 How does one take the best ever live Rock album and make it even better? This sensational set is the answer and the proof that is can be done. The music by Allman Brothers BandFind albums by this artist at their absolute peak, recorded live at the Fillmore East on March 12 & 13, 1971 (two shows each day) and again on June 27, 1971 produced initially the legendary "At Fillmore EastFind albums with this title" double LP, their third album, which in time earned the title of the best live album of all times, which is fully justified to this very day. The deluxe edition form 2003 expanded the contents to include about two and a half hours of music, but this edition takes it to the max, spread over six CDs and presenting the full five Fillmore concerts that served as the source of the earlier releases. At the time of the recording Allman Brothers Band consisted of guitarist Duane AllmanFind albums by this artist, guitarist / vocalist Dickey BettsFind albums by this artist, keyboardist / vocalist Gregg AllmanFind albums by this artist, bassist Berry OakleyFind albums by this artist, drummer Butch TrucksFind albums by this artist and drummer / percussionist Jai Johanny JohansonFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. JaimoeFind albums by this artist). Duane Allman died in a motorcycle accident on October 29, 1971 and Berry Oakley followed him a year later on November 11, 1972 in similar circumstances, which closed that chapter of this seminal band. The great thing about this set is of course the possibility to hear the music in a complete unabridged and unspoiled form, and then be able to compare the different versions of the same tunes. The set lists are very similar which results in same of the tunes to appear in five different versions. Of course in the case of Allman Brothers Band the extensive instrumental improvised passages differ considerably between each other and are a superb document of the role of improvisation in the Rock idiom. Duane Allman, who shortly before these shows completed his part in recording the seminal album "Layla And Other Assorted Love SongsFind albums with this title" with Eric ClaptonFind albums by this artist, was familiar with the extensive improvisational style, which Clapton developed during his Cream days. The two exchanged licks for hours, which can be heard on the 20th Anniversary Edition and the 40th Anniversary Super Deluxe Editions of "Layla" and obviously adopted them as part of the Allman Brothers Band routine. Listening to this music in depth allows the listener to be metaphysically transported a few decades back, when music was all about music and nothing else mattered. Every note played here is a statement of musical truth that these musicians wanted to share with their audiences. That required total dedication and commitment, which are sadly completely absent form today´s music scene. Luckily this set was not contaminated by various high-resolution bullshit remixes and other atrocities of the music industry´s confusion, simply giving the listener the naked truth, as captured at the time, for people who have two ears. For people who love Blues and Rock, this set is beyond essential!

Updated: 18/01/2016Posted: 18/01/2016

CD 6 Digibook Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend

ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND ~ WIPE THE WINDOWS, CHECK THE OIL, DOLLAR GAS MUSIC ON CD 14192 (Barcode: 600753959527) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock Recorded: 1972 - 1975 Released: 2022 This is a reissue / remaster of the live album by the iconic American Rock group The Allman Brothers BandFind albums by this artist, released originally as a 2LP in 1976. It presents the group in the first years following the tragic deaths of their guitarist Duane AllmanFind albums by this artist and bassist Berry OakleyFind albums by this artist. The lineup of the band included the four founding members: vocalist / keyboardist / guitarist Gregg AllmanFind albums by this artist, vocalist / lead guitarist Dickey BettsFind albums by this artist, drummer / percussionist Jai Johanny JohansonFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. JaimoeFind albums by this artist) and drummer Butch TrucksFind albums by this artist, and new members: keyboardist Chuck LeavellFind albums by this artist and bassist Lamar WilliamsFind albums by this artist. The album presents eleven tracks, taken from their album “Brothers And SistersFind albums with this title” and earlier albums. The newly remaster album offer a far superior sound quality to the original release. The album was poorly received at the time of its initial release, mainly due to the imminent comparison to the legendary “At Fillmore East” live album, which remains as one of the undisputable best live Rock albums of all time. However, the music and the performances on this album are all first class, as was always the case with The Allman Brothers Band and additionally it is a great document of the miraculous survival of the band, following their disastrous / catastrophic fate earlier on. Overall, this is superb live Classic Rock album in every respect, which emphasizes both the Blues roots of the group and their sublime Rock improvisations, which are most evident on the expanded tracks. No less important are the great songwriting abilities of Greg Allman and Betts, who wrote most of the material the group performed. This is a wonderful ride down the memory lane, which again and again states that “they don’t make music like this anymore”. Pure gold for Classic Rock and Allman Brothers Band fans!

Updated: 20/01/2023Posted: 20/01/2023

CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend

GREGG ALLMAN ~ I`M NO ANGEL / JUST BEFORE THE BULLETS FLY FLOATING WORLD 6246 (Barcode: 805772624627) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock Recorded: 1987 - 1988 Released: 2015 This is a reissue of the 3rd and 4th solo studio albums by American Rock keyboardist / vocalist / songwriter Gregg AllmanFind albums by this artist, recorded in 1987 and 1988 respectively. The albums were recorded with the same lineup, which includes guitarist Dan TolerFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Tim HedingFind albums by this artist, bassist Bruce WaibelFind albums by this artist, drummer David TolerFind albums by this artist and percussionist Chaz TrippyFind albums by this artist. Each albums presents ten songs, mostly written by Allman with contributions by other songwriters also included. Often overshadowed by the fame of his older brother Duane AllmanFind albums by this artist, his partner in one the greatest Rock bands of all time, The Allman Brothers BandFind albums by this artist, Duane was an incredibly talented musician, brilliant Hammond organ player and incredible vocalist. Following the death of Duane and later the collapse of their band Gregg started a solo career, recording seven solo studio albums, which were divided by lengthy gaps in recording activity. His private life was a troubled and sadly often tragic, but he remained an incredible Artist till the very end. These two albums are full of great Rock songs and excellent musicianship, which deserves to be remembered. The Southern Rock tradition, which Gregg impersonated perhaps more than any other Artist of the genre, produced some incredible and probably most genuine American Rock. Overall, it is great to have these albums back in circulation, and listening to them almost four decades later, is still a great thrill. Great music lasts forever, which this two albums prove beyond any doubt.

Updated: 02/01/2024Posted: 02/01/2024

CD 2 Recommend To A Friend

CREAM ~ GOODBYE TOUR LIVE 1968 POLYDOR 602577952999 (Barcode: 602577952999) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock Recorded: 1968 Released: 2019 This is an archival Box Set collecting four live shows by the iconic British supergroup CreamFind albums by this artist, recorded during the groups final American tour in October 1968 (Oakland, LA and San Diego) and the final UK concert at the Royal Albert Hall in November 1968. None of this material was previously released on CD. The 4CD set is lavishly packaged with a book full of great photographs and a lengthy essay by David FrickeFind albums by this artist. Guitarist Eric ClaptonFind albums by this artist, bassist / vocalist Jack BruceFind albums by this artist and drummer Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist managed to revolutionize Rock music during the short time they stayed together, pioneering everything that defines Rock by crystalizing its ingredients: riffs, Blues changes, power trio setting, extended soloing and most of all incredible inventiveness and stamina. Most of the original material in Cream’s repertoire was composed by Bruce, featuring lyrics by the poet Pete BrownFind albums by this artist, but they also played their interpretations of Blues standards. But Cream were also way beyond what is commonly defined as Rock. Bruce and Baker pioneered Jazz-Rock Fusion a few years earlier when playing in groups led by Graham BondFind albums by this artist, and both had Jazz upbringing in them, which often came to the surface during their lengthy improvisations, which characterized their live performances. Clapton, who did not have a Jazz background, invented the Rock improvisation singlehandedly, opening the path to many great guitar players that followed in his path as Rock improvisers: Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist, Duane AllmanFind albums by this artist and others. The music included in this Box Set is a wonderful opportunity to study the modus operandi Cream developed over time, and although the four concerts are based on a very similar set lists, each and every one of the four versions of the same tune are completely different in every aspect. There are subtle tempi changes, different dynamics, bass patterns and obviously each of the guitar solos is a world in itself. Listening to the bass playing reveals the genius of Bruce, who was definitely the greatest virtuoso of the bass guitar in all times. Baker, who learned to play drums from the great British Jazz drummer Phil SeamenFind albums by this artist, was also one of the most unique Rock drummers of all times and his drum soli are absolutely unique to this very day. This album is a great tribute to these two Giants, both sadly no longer with us. Overall, the music this album presents, despite of being five and a half decades old, is still some of the finest Rock achievements in the entire history of the genre. There is no need to recommend this album to veteran Rock fans, but there a billions of people who never even heard one note of this, which explains why this world looks like it does :) My suggestion to the Jazz lovers among my readers would be to give it a listen and discover not only how it swings, but also where the sources of the Jazz-Rock Fusion Nile originate from.

Updated: 28/01/2022Posted: 28/01/2022

CD 4 Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend

DELANEY & BONNIE & FRIENDS ~ D&B TOGETHER (EXPANDED EDITION) COLUMBIA 5099750788028 (Barcode: 5099750788028) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock Recorded: 1969 - 1973 Released: 2003 This is the sixth album by American singer / songwriter couple Delaney BramlettFind albums by this artist and Bonnie BramlettFind albums by this artist, known as Delaney & BonnieFind albums by this artist and later on as Delaney & Bonnie & FriendsFind albums by this artist. This album, their fourth release on AtcoFind albums on this label Records, was recorded in 1971 and released by the label in 1972 as "Country LifeFind albums with this title", only to be withdrawn from distribution almost immediately and sold to ColumbiaFind albums on this label Records, which released the album with an altered running sequence and the new title "D&B TogetherFind albums with this title". The album presents twelve songs, ten of which were newly recorded and two were recorded during the sessions for Eric ClaptonFind albums by this artist´s debut album ("Eric ClaptonFind albums with this title"). Over forty musicians took part in the recordings and they are a loose version of the "Friends" moniker, including of course guitarists Eric Clapton, Duane AllmanFind albums by this artist and Charlie FreemanFind albums by this artist and a plethora of other great musicians. Almost all the songs on this album were written by the Bramletts. Sadly this was the last album recorded by Delaney & Bonnie, who divorced soon after. This remastered and expanded reissue includes six bonus tracks taken from Delaney´s and Bonnie´s solo albums recorded for Columbia after the duo´s breakup. In retrospect this is perhaps the most "perfect" album by the duo, superbly sung, played and produced, with a great mixture of ballads and up tempo numbers and excellent songwriting. It is strange why Jerry WexlerFind albums by this artist (the Atco head poncho) decided to drop the album. The reasons were most probably personal (the strained relationship between the couple) rather than musical. In any case this is definitely the smoothest Delaney & Bonnie album, which potentially might have been a great commercial success, but in reality simply sunk into oblivion. Delaney & Bonnie´s career, as reflected by the legacy of the six wonderful albums they managed to record, is a great example of a missed opportunities and bad luck, which prevented them from becoming superstars, which they well deserved. Their revolutionary concept of integrating Afro-American music with Rock in retrospect had a dramatic influence on countless musicians / songwriters around the world, which changed the face of music and completely eradicated racial segregation in music (at least for a while). For Rock connoisseurs this is a must have gem, which is also a closing chapter of a legend. Younger listeners might lend it an ear to discover what music really is all about, contrary to what is marketed as music today. Wholeheartedly recommended!

Updated: 02/06/2018Posted: 02/06/2018

CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

DELANEY & BONNIE & FRIENDS ~ LIVIN` ON THE OPEN ROAD AIR CUTS 8064 (Barcode: 5292317806412) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock Recorded: 1971 Released: 2017 This is an album by American singer / songwriter couple Delaney BramlettFind albums by this artist and Bonnie BramlettFind albums by this artist, known as Delaney & BonnieFind albums by this artist and later as Delaney & Bonnie & FriendsFind albums by this artist. It presents a live performance at the A&R Studios in NY, captured for broadcast on FM radio. They are accompanied by a set of wonderful musicians, which includes guitarist Duane AllmanFind albums by this artist, his brother keyboardist Gregg AllmanFind albums by this artist, saxophonist King CurtisFind albums by this artist and many others. Duane Allman and King Curtis would be both dead a few weeks / months (respectively) after this recording was made, which sadly is among their last recordings. The concert presents an acoustic and an electric set and culminates with an epic eighteen minutes long jam. The music reflects the true spirit of Delaney & Bonnie and includes mostly Blues / Country / Rhythm And Blues material, which was their natural habitat. The intimacy, informality and obvious camaraderie of the session offer a close look at their modus operandi, which mixes heartfelt vocals with great instrumental work, which is deadly effective. The short acoustic set offers some superb slide guitar work by Duane Allman and the electric set presents a full Rhythm And Blues band with a Funky brass section and great saxophone work by King Curtis. Considering the fact that the collected recording legacy of Delaney & Bonnie is as concise as their short-lived career, every addition to their discography is a true feast. Although the Delaney & Bonnie legacy is often neglected and forgotten, it is definitely unforgettable and worth coming back too. It is essentially one of the best and most honest American Rock ever created. Side Note Obiterdictum Ltd, a company based in Cyprus (oh well you know the story… copyright laws and legal issues) releases mostly live recorded radio broadcasts from the 1960s on and offers an amazing source of music which was never officially released by some of the best Classic Rock and Jazz artists. The catalogue offers five hundred releases, which is an absolute treasure chest of music history, often appearing for the first time. Although the sound quality and sometimes also music quality range from absolutely brilliant to pretty poor, most of the material is surely listenable, especially after being remastered recently, and more importantly offers music which is not available elsewhere. The company releases the albums under several sub-labels: Air CutsFind albums on this label, EchoesFind albums on this label, Hi HatFind albums on this label, HotspurFind albums on this label, InterferenceFind albums on this label, KeyholeFind albums on this label, KlondikeFind albums on this label, Live On VinylFind albums on this label, London CallingFind albums on this label, OrbitFind albums on this label, Rox VoxFind albums on this label and Sound StageFind albums on this label. There is no ironclad logic as to what material appears on which label, except perhaps some internal considerations by the Obiterdictum owners. Approach with caution, but keep in mind that some of these releases are absolutely brilliant!

Updated: 08/05/2023Posted: 15/05/2019

CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend

DELANEY & BONNIE & FRIENDS ~ MOTEL SHOT (EXPANDED EDITION) REAL GONE MUSIC 0516 (Barcode: 848064005162) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock Recorded: 1970 Released: 2017 This is fifth album by American singer / songwriter couple Delaney BramlettFind albums by this artist and Bonnie BramlettFind albums by this artist, known as Delaney & BonnieFind albums by this artist and later on as Delaney & Bonnie & FriendsFind albums by this artist. This album, their third and last release on AtcoFind albums on this label Records, was recorded in 1970 and released in 1971 with a new version of "Friends", which includes, keyboardist Bobby WhitlockFind albums by this artist, bassist Carl RadleFind albums by this artist, drummer Jim KeltnerFind albums by this artist and guests like pianist Leon RussellFind albums by this artist, guitarists Duane AllmanFind albums by this artist and Dave MasonFind albums by this artist, vocalists Gram ParsonsFind albums by this artist and Joe CockerFind albums by this artist and others. The original album presents twelve songs, which are the usual mixture of Bramletts´ originals and Rock / Rhythm And Blues classics. This expanded and remastered version adds eight bonus tracks, taken from the earlier recording session of the same material, done during the couple´s short lived ElektraFind albums on this label days. Musically the album presents the already established Delaney & Bonnie formula, mixing Rhythm And Blues, Soul and Country music with Rock instrumentation and featuring the duo´s vocal harmonies and Bonnie´s heartwrenching vocal pyrotechnics. Combined with superb instrumental work by the "Friends", the music is full of energy and genuine enthusiasm spiced with talent and good taste, which at that time was still around. The concept of this album being almost entirely acoustic and "informal", recorded during impromptu jam sessions in motel rooms, is nor really reflecting the reality. In spite of the success of a couple of singles taken out of this album it did not sell well and remained highly regarded by some critics and Delaney & Bonnie devotees, but in retrospect disappeared into oblivion, which is a great pity as the music it offered was excellent all through and certainly worth being remembered. On the other hand considering the quality of music that was being produced at an incredible rate at the time, many classic Rock albums shared the faith of this one. It is great to see that the album is available on CD thanks to the outstanding work by the Real Gone MusicFind albums on this label reissue label, which means it can be enjoyed by people who still remember it when it happened in real time as well as being (hopefully) discovered by some younger listeners. Wholeheartedly recommended!

Updated: 08/05/2023Posted: 13/07/2018

CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

DELANEY & BONNIE & FRIENDS ~ TO BONNIE FROM DELANEY WOUNDED BIRD 326 (Barcode: 664140032620) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock Recorded: 1970 Released: 2016 This is fourth album by American singer / songwriter couple Delaney BramlettFind albums by this artist and Bonnie BramlettFind albums by this artist, known as Delaney & BonnieFind albums by this artist and later on as Delaney & Bonnie & FriendsFind albums by this artist. This album, their second release on AtcoFind albums on this label Records, was recorded and released in 1970 with a new version of "Friends", since the previous version of "Friends", which accompanied them on the live album "On Tour With Eric ClaptonFind albums with this title" was practically hijacked by Leon RussellFind albums by this artist to accompany Joe CockerFind albums by this artist on his US 1970 tour, which produced the legendary "Mad Dogs & EnglishmenFind albums with this title" album. The new "Friends" retained only keyboardist Bobby WhitlockFind albums by this artist from the previous band, but offered an impressive list of players, such as guitarists Duane AllmanFind albums by this artist (who played slide guitar) and Charlie FreemanFind albums by this artist and many others, including the Memphis HornsFind albums by this artist brass section, which took part in the recording of their debut album "HomeFind albums with this title". The album presents twelve songs, which are the usual mixture of Bramletts´ originals and Rock / Rhythm And Blues classics. Musically the album presents the already established Delaney & Bonnie formula, mixing Rhythm And Blues, Soul and Country music with Rock instrumentation and featuring the duo´s vocal harmonies and Bonnie´s heartwrenching vocal pyrotechnics. Combined with superb instrumental work by the "Friends", the music is full of energy and genuine enthusiasm spiced with talent and good taste, which at that time was still around. In spite of the success of the preceding live album, this album did not come near to the same level of success and remained highly regarded by some critics and Delaney & Bonnie devotees, but in retrospect disappeared into oblivion, which is a great pity as the music it offered was excellent all through and certainly worth being remembered. On the other hand considering the quality of music that was being produced at an incredible rate at the time, many classic Rock albums shared the faith of this one. It is great to see that the album is available on CD thanks to the outstanding work by the Wounded BirdFind albums on this label Records reissue label, which means it can be enjoyed by people who still remember it when it happened in real time as well as being (hopefully) discovered by some younger listeners. Wholeheartedly recommended!

Updated: 08/05/2023Posted: 02/06/2018

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

DEREK AND THE DOMINOS ~ LAYLA AND OTHER ASSORTED LOVE SONGS (DELUXE EDITION) POLYDOR 600753314296 (Barcode: 600753314296) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock Recorded: 1970 - 1971 Released: 2011 I guess there´s not much left to say about this iconic album, considering the oceans of words already spilled on the subject. Post CreamFind albums by this artist / Blind FaithFind albums by this artist guitarist / vocalist Eric ClaptonFind albums by this artist moved over the pond and embraced American music: Blues (which was always his primary love), Country and Rock And Roll. Playing with American musicians Clapton seemingly changed his approach from the highly improvisational, endless and incredibly loud solos he used to play with Cream, to concise, almost simplistic brief solo moments, lots of vocals and lots of melody. For some it was a "new" Clapton, but for people with keen hearing Clapton was still playing the Blues, same as he did in the YardbirdsFind albums by this artist years ago and same as he did with Cream, slightly disguised / Americanized but basically honest and consistent with his past. And then of course the presence of Duane AllmanFind albums by this artist, the legendary guitar hero of the Allman Brothers BandFind albums by this artist and Southern Rock in general, which turns this album into what it truly is – a conversation between two Giants, which in Rock happens only once in a blue moon. So what do we have here: nice but not sensational music, mostly Blues based, superb guitar playing, great support from a great rhythm section and a lot of Magic, which turns this into one of the greatest Rock albums of all times. Of course it could have never been repeated and even if Duane did not meet his Maker soon after, this kind of miracle happens only once, so let´s be happy with what we have. The additional CD includes some great previously unreleased material, some live / some studio, including the sessions for the second, never finished album and other goodies. Did I say essential? Hell YES!

Updated: 01/06/2018Posted:

CD 2 Digipak Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend

RORY GALLAGHER ~ IRISH TOUR `74 (40TH ANNIVERSARY DELUXE EDITION) SONY 888750048820 (Barcode: 888750048820) ~ IRELAND ~ Blues-Rock Recorded: 1973 - 1974 Released: 2014 This is a monumental reissue project, which expands the original double LP live album by the Irish Blues-Rock guitarist / vocalist Rory GallagherFind albums by this artist into a Box Set with seven CDs and one DVD. The material was recorded during the last days of December 1973 and early January 1974 during Gallagher´s tour of Ireland (including Northern Ireland). The DVD presents the spectacular documentary film made by the British film director Tony PalmerFind albums by this artist (who specializes in music documentaries) made during this tour. Gallagher´s group during this tour included pianist Lou MartinFind albums by this artist, bassist Gerry McAvoyFind albums by this artist and drummer Rod De`AthFind albums by this artist. In spite of Gallagher´s idol status in the 1970s, his invaluable contributions to Blues and Rock legacy are today sadly almost forgotten. On stage Gallagher was a force of Nature and his incredible inventiveness and pure magic he managed to produce on his guitar were absolutely colossal. He definitely belongs to the very elite of white Blues guitarist, which also includes Mike BloomfieldFind albums by this artist, Eric ClaptonFind albums by this artist, Johnny WinterFind albums by this artist, Duane AllmanFind albums by this artist, Peter GreenFind albums by this artist and a handful of others. The whole issue of white Blues guitarists excelling in music which has its cradle in the Afro-American cultural legacy is quite fascinating and Gallagher is an extraordinary example how this legacy, which he learned from the very early age was transformed by him into a completely new level due to his talent of combining virtuosity, improvisation and complexity. Since these live shows were recorded only a few days apart from each other, they include quite similar set lists, which of course results in a certain amount of repetition as far as the material is concerned. The beauty of this set is, that each and every performance of the same tune present on these albums is so different from any other that the repetition is not only most welcome, but also extremely educational. These recordings are also a superb example of the spirit of music that was present on stage during the Golden Age, when charismatic and totally dedicated performers were Gods. It was all about music and all the rest (mostly money) was completely secondary. These raw performances had no element of staging or decoration and the only thing that mattered was how well everybody played. These days are sadly utterly gone. This Box Set is a great example of how to make Box Sets work. It includes brilliant top quality material, minimizes the packaging (and subsequently the price) to bare minimum and does not deal with fads and fashions of superfluous sound technologies. This is pure Gold from start to finish, exactly as it was forty plus years ago and it is here to stay forever. Of course this is absolutely essential for all Blues fans everywhere on this globe, a capsule of frozen greatness for us to recollect and for the younger generations to discover. Essential I said? Way beyond essential it is!

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: 17/01/2016

7CD+DVD 8 Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend

STEPHEN STILLS / MANASSAS ~ MANASSAS ATLANTIC 075678280825 (Barcode: 075678280825) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock Recorded: 1972 Released: 1996 This is the debut album by the short-lived excellent band ManassasFind albums by this artist led by legendary American Rock icon Stephen StillsFind albums by this artist which also included ex-ByrdsFind albums by this artist / Flying Burrito BrothersFind albums by this artist vocalist / guitarist Chris HillmanFind albums by this artist, guitarist Al PerkinsFind albums by this artist, bassist Calvin SamuelsFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Paul HarrisFind albums by this artist, drummer Dallas TaylorFind albums by this artist and percussionist Joe LalaFind albums by this artist. Rolling StonesFind albums by this artist bassist Bill WymanFind albums by this artist guests on several tracks. The original double LP album presents twenty one excellent songs, split across the four sides of the two LPs with a separate subtitle for each of the sides, all bar one written or co-written by Stills and superbly performed by the band. Stills emerges on the album not only as a first rate vocalist, guitarist and bandleader but primarily as a superb songwriter, cementing his status initiated as a member of Buffalo SpringfieldFind albums by this artist and Crosby, Stills, Nash & YoungFind albums by this artist, where he already contributed some of his finest creations and his material featured on the two solo albums released before forming Manassas. Musically the album epitomizes the best of American Rock, which emerged from the amalgam of Blues, Folk and Country music with electric Rock And Roll. Plenty of heartfelt vocals, excellent vocal harmonies and surging guitar work supported by rock steady rhythm section were the ingredients of the irresistible formula that American Rock knew how to push to the max at the time. In retrospect this album is often considered as one of the top achievements of American Classic Rock in the 1970s, listed side by side such albums as Derek And The DominosFind albums by this artist masterpiece "Layla And Other Assorted Love SongsFind albums with this title". Dedicated to the great and prematurely dead American Rock Heroes: Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist, Al WilsonFind albums by this artist (of Canned HeatFind albums by this artist) and Duane AllmanFind albums by this artist, Stills clearly defines his influences and pays tribute to the fallen victims of the demanding Rock careers. An essential piece of the American Classic Rock heritage, this album is a must in any serious Classic Rock collection and definitely worth to be re-discovered by the new generations of listeners.

Updated: 18/01/2019Posted: 18/01/2019

CD 1 HDCD Remastered Recommend To A Friend