The Allman Brothers Band- Live at the Fillmore East

       Live at the Fillmore East!  Was it just a record?  No, how about a musical storm of such wondrous intensity, what else to do but to surrender to this beautiful, massive sound.  From the swamps, the blues, rivers and dreams, The Allman Brothers Band were explorers of the highest level. The boogie the brothers brought forth wowed people. The music was serious, ( You better be serious if you are putting a 33 minute song on a studio record.) Interveaving blues,  rock, with jazz and improvisation,  this music moved, whether you were in a Mustang or a Kenworth big rig, the songs were taking you down the road with some serious groove behind it.  The Allmans had not broken big yet, until, Live at the Fillmore East.  A double live recording that captured the sonic force unleashed nightly, the guitar solos and motoring bass, paired with two drummers.  The light jazzy touch of Jaimoe, coupled with the thunder of Butch Trucks.  Top it all off  with the soulful, blues drenched voice of Greg Allman.  The brothers always honored the songs. Check out "Stormy Monday," followed by, "You Don't Love Me." 

      I remember hearing and learning about the Grateful Dead for the first time and being amazed at the "scene."  The clothes, drugs, artwork, sound systems, influences, (Kesey, Leary,) what a force.  Then, I heard The Allman Brothers Band, and I understood, for the first time how the songs could BE the WHOLE scene. I also began looking for the next great song, exploring the Allmans influences to share on the next mix tape, or CD mix or playlist or radio show.  Exploring the songs to share with people and hopefully move them in a positive way.  And now, I am beginning another musical journey of sorts, and the songs and players from yesterday are speaking again.  Thank  you: Berry, Butch, Dickey, Duane, Greg, Jaimoe and all the players who came after to keep the songs alive. Thanks!