Allman Brothers Band
Win, Lose Or Draw

It is needless to remind the musical importance of a guitar master like Duane Allman (considered one of the best guitarists ever after the maestro Jimy).

Nowadays, the discography of the Allman Brothers is quite hard to find. Equally needless to say, the live performances of this small group of musicians (where Duane and his brother Gregg stood out) were simply extraordinary. They indeed engaged in endless jam sessions, entertaining an audience more than ever thirsty for music (Live at Fillmore East is indeed considered one of the best live performances in rock history). This album, released in 1975, and therefore after the tragic death of Duane Allman (which occurred in 1971), is still produced under the name "Allman Brothers Band" even though Duane was no longer there.

The album is an excellent mix of blues and jazz, with the usual southern-rock tone typical of this group. The songs are all penned by frontman Gregg Allman (in addition to singing, he plays the acoustic guitar, organ, and keyboards) and slide guitarist Richard Betts. On electric bass is Lamar Williams, while on drums (the Allman Brothers Band was one of the first bands to experiment with the method of two drummers) are Jaimoe and Butch Trucks (uncle of Derek Trucks), while on piano an excellent jazz-fusion pianist like Chuck Leavell (highly appreciated for his jam sessions)

The album opens with an excellent re-interpretation of a Muddy Waters piece ("Can't Lose What You Never Had"), featuring a great piano piece. Other notable songs include "Just Another Love Song" and the excellent title track, a superb ballad that summarizes the band's state, prey to alcohol and drug dependencies. But the real highlight of the album (live it will be one of the most performed and requested pieces) is the instrumental piece "High Fall" (almost 15 minutes long!), a true rock ride, ranging from blues to jazz and fusion. Here all the musicians' skills come out. The album ends with another cover ("Sweet Mama" by Billy Joe Shaver).

This will be the last album of the band before splitting and then reuniting at the end of the '70s (1979). The album, just released, gained considerable popularity, debuting at number 5 on the Billboard chart. Definitely an album to have for blues enthusiasts.

"Music has become so intellectual. Music must be fun, a pleasure. It is not expected to be a heavy, deep, and intense thing - especially rock music. It wants to set you free. Rock 'n' roll shows you the right direction for all things." Duane Allman.

Tracklist:

•1. Can't Lose What You Never Had (Cover Muddy Waters)

•2. Just Another Love Song

•3. Nevertheless

•4. Win, Lose or Draw

•5. Louisiana Lou and Three Card Monty John

•6. High Falls

•7. Sweet Mama (Cover Shaver)