The Allman Brothers Band - Idlewild South

Blues/rock classic but purchase the Gold edition from Mo-Fi

From the melodic opening lines of "Revival" to the closing strains of "Leave My Blues Alone" this is one of the best albums The Allman Brothers Band ever created. The band has, of course, created other masterpieces but this is the first album where everything comes together from the top notch playing by Duane and Dickey to Greg's bluesy growl. Most of the tracks from this album have became the bedrock of the band's concerts (and a good portion of this album formed the basis for the classic and seminal live album "Live at the Fillmore East").

"Idlewind South" has been remastered a number of times for CD but the best versions to purchase are the early edition mastered by Dennis Drake where Drake doesn't futz with the sound but presents the music naturally without compression or altering the sound of the original mastertape. Drake's remaster can usually be found used. If you see the "Capricorn Remasters" on the inlay card of the CD, this isn't the one remastered by Drake. You'll find a copy of Drake's remaster used in all probablility and its one of the original issues of the CD.

The best version, however, is the newly released version from Mobile Fidelity (which is back in business with new owners after going out of business in the early part of the 21st century). Mastered by Shawn R. Britton the album has never sounded this warm, rich or good on CD. If you can find the Britton remaster (google Music Direct or go to the Mobile Fidelity website)which was released in a limited, numbered edition in a replica of the original album sleeve, I'd snatch it up. It's possible some independent retailers are carrying it (sadly amazon.com is not and I'm not quite sure why perhaps its is sold out). Britton also did the marvelous remaster of Linda Ronstandt's "Dont Cry Now" and is also doing a remaster of a seminal Little Feat album).

Pick up this classic album you won't be sorry. If you can't find the Britton remaster go for the marvelous Drake (Drake also did early versions of "Beginnings" the album that combines this album with their first). Enjoy! September 2, 2007

The best ever

The allman brothers could do it all; Two of the best guitarist in the business, two drummers, great bass and piano.
It does not get any better than this. July 27, 2007

What a Great Album!

I have to admit that my opinion here isn't too objective; mainly because I am an Allman Brothers fan from way back.
This was Duane's last album with the Allman Brothers before tragedy struck. Maybe for that reason alone, it deserves a place in any rocker's collection. Duane Allman's slide guitar reaches those high notes, and bro Gregg cooks too. I love those harmonizing guitars.
I cannot be even slightly critical of this album, because each and every song delivers the ultimate sound these guys were famous for.
Their version of "Hoochie Coochie Man" is a good example of how tight and together they played. I wouldn't have it any other way.
I still have the original vinyl album, and don't have the CD yet, but after reading the other reviews here, I know it's probably my next CD purchase for sure.
Some music, no matter how much time has passed, just sounds better.

June 25, 2007

Classic Stuff

The Allman's second album and another strong one. More classic songs including "Revival", and "Midnight Rider". The album also contains one of the most popular all instrumental tracks of all time "In Memory Of Elizabeth Reed" where Duane Allman and Dickey Betts tear it up on dual lead guitar. The album also features a cover of "Hochie Coochie Man" which is ok, but I have heard better versions. This album is on a par with the first one if not slightly better. This would be the last album for Duane Allman who died of a motorcycle accident after this album was recorded. January 25, 2007

what a great, great album

What a masterpiece this is! If you enjoy a combination of rock, soul, blues, jazz then this will appeal to you.

Although this is a short album, the brief nature of it works well...it leaves you wanting more. The duel guitar playing was so tremendous that it made the solos sound like vocals rather than self indulgent notes.

It starts with "Revival" which is perfectly titled. The song starts out as a jazzy, instrumental but then turns into a wonderful call and response tune. It is very uplifting and one of my favorite Allman Brother songs.

"Don't keep me wondering" is a scorching rocker with great, greasy, slide guitar. Dune Allman employs a terrific fat tone.

"Midnight Rider" is a classic song that epitomizes the Southern Rock sound. Check out the interplay between the guitars of Dickie Betts and Duane Allman.

"In memory of Elizabeth Reed" is an instrumental. It is jazzy yet it also remains in a true song structurerather than an excuse to play a lot of notes. The Allman Brothers never noodle on the guitar. Every note counts

"Hoochie Coochie man" is another blazing rocker featuring Duane Allman's slide.

Besides the awesome guitar you also get Greg Allman's soulful, whiskey throated vocals and classic Hammond organ sounds.

The duel drumming rocks, Berry Oakely's bass playing is stellar and most of all, this was an incredible work for such a young band.

For anybody not familar with this band, this is an excellent starting point. I do not believe in compilations for this band b/c they were too good and have way too much depth. You cannot reduce a monumental band like this to a compilation. "Idlewild South" reflects a great period of this band when they were building maturity and confidence that would be more fully demonstrated on the next album, "Eat a Peach"

October 30, 2006

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