Record Reviews

GREGG ALLMAN ~ LAID BACK (DELUXE EDITION) MERCURY 602577427510 (Barcode: 602577427510) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock Recorded: 1973 Released: 2019 This is an expanded reissue / remaster of the 1st solo album by the American keyboardist / vocalist / songwriter / bandleader Gregg AllmanFind albums by this artist, recorded while he was still a member of the Allman Brothers BandFind albums by this artist. None of the members of the ABB play on the album and it was by a large group of studio musicians, all first rate players. The original album presented eight tracks, three of which were Allman originals. This 2CD Deluxe edition presents the remastered original album and adds eight early mixes on CD1 and eighteen demos, outtakes and alternate versions on CD2. The album is an absolute marvel from start to finish, with beautiful, moistly romantic songs, brilliantly performed and sung, with lush instrumental arrangements. Full of Blues, Soul and even quite a few swinging Jazzy moments, it is a timeless joy and one of the best American Rock albums produced in the early 1970s. It is, however, quite different from what most ABB expected it to be, and was received mostly with mix feelings at the time. Listening to it today truly depicts Gregg’s full talent as a songwriter and performer, which stands the test of time without a hitch. The bonus tracks on the Deluxe edition reflect the process of the album’s production step by step, until it reached its final polished / perfect form, and are of course priceless to true music lovers and a great historic document. Overall, this is a timeless piece of music, which presents the softer side of the Southern Rock image, which Allman Brother Band presented during their epic live concerts. Gregg was undoubtedly one of the best American Rock vocalists and a sublime keyboardist, all of which is fully documented on this expanded version of the album, which is an absolute must in any decent Rock record collection. Not to be missed!

Updated: 25/06/2024Posted: 25/06/2024

CD 2 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

LARRY CORYELL ~ LAID BACK & BLUES RHOMBUS 7066 (Barcode: 768707706624) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 2006 Released: 2006 This is a live album by American Jazz guitarist / composer / bandleader Larry CoryellFind albums by this artist, recorded in a quartet setting with pianist Marc SealesFind albums by this artist, bassist Chuck DeardorfFind albums by this artist and drummer Dean HodgesFind albums by this artist. Vocalist Tracey PiergrossFind albums by this artist guests on one track. The album presents ten tracks, seven of which are original compositions by Coryell and three are Jazz / Blues standards. The album offers exceptional sound quality considering it was a rather informal live recording. During the last decade of Coryell’s life, before his tragically premature death in 2017, he recorded a dozen albums, mostly live, which present a chaotic collection of material of often disappointing quality. However, this album is absolutely superb from start to finish, recorded obviously in a relaxed atmosphere and featuring excellent musicians, who support Coryell amicably and with abilities worthy of his genius. His guitar work is brilliant, as always, and for his many fans this is a most welcome return to his early Jazz career, without any Fusion traces. His virtuosity is undeniable and his technique unparalleled. Overall, this is a most welcome addition to the extensive legacy of one of the greatest Jazz guitarists in all time, which sadly is very little known as most of his late recordings. Therefore, I really recommend to all Jazz guitar lovers to try and find a copy if this gem, as it is worthy of being heard and admired, and becoming a part of any serious record collection.

Updated: 28/09/2025Posted: 28/09/2025

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend