The Allman Brothers Band Live At The Atlanta International Pop Festival It goes without saying (but I’ll say it anyway) that any live release from the Allman Brothers Band is special. Along with the Grateful Dead, they reign as the Godfathers of jam, legendary for the strong-arm guitar histrionics from Duane Allman and Dickey Betts (irrevocably followed in their footsteps by current ABB guitarists Derek Trucks and Warren Haynes), Gregg Allman’s gritty vocals and stroke of B3 genius, and the double-fisted drive of drummers Butch Trucks and Jaimoe (Jai Johnny Johanson). The Allman Brothers’ appearance at the Atlanta International Pop Festival over Fourth of July weekend in 1970 was pivotal on many fronts. They were a local band that not only opened, but also closed the festival with crowds that grew up to 500,000. You can bet than more than a few of their friends were there for support. Presented with such an opportunity, the Allmans were hungry and eager to prove themselves on a bill that included Jimi Hendrix, Ten Years After and Mountain. Live At The Atlanta International Pop Festival is a beautiful example of just how hot the band was almost a year before their renowned shows at the Fillmore East (which have been remastered for a new release). Disc one features 12 songs from July 3rd, while disc two boasts seven tracks from July 5th. Double doses of “Statesboro Blues,” In Memory Of Elizabeth Reed,” “Whipping Post” and “Mountain Jam” (featuring guest guitarist Johnny Winter on a version that clocks in at just under 30 minutes) scarcely diminish their impact. If anything, getting two perspectives on these particular jams is an enlightening experience. Throw in “Trouble No More,” “Dreams” and bassist Berry Oakley belting out a soulful and sweaty “Hoochie Coochie Man,” and you have a classic, eligible for ownership. It sure makes you wish you were there. —Shawn Perry, Vintage Rock ~ Timeless Rock n’ Roll http://www.vintagerock.com Leave a Reply Cancel ReplyYou must be logged in to post a comment.
