George Hatcher Band - Hindsight (1985)

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Merry Christmas everybody! And ho-ho-ho, what have we here? Yes, it's the last George Hatcher Band album. How lucky do we get? Special thanks to Luc for providing the rip, and of course thanks to George Hatcher for some of the greatest Southern Rock. Yes, girls and boys, this is the last album George released. And it's here!
This album was done for the Trout Records label. Never heard of the label, but the music is still fine. Very fine indeed. A bit rough on the production side, I think, but very enjoyable all the same. Luc asked for permission to have this posted here, and it was alright. Cool! Actually you all need to go out and get in contact with the man. He's still alive and not doing anything musically? That's just too bad. We need George back. But until then, grab yourselves a beer and have some peace on earth.

Hal Ketchum - Threadbare Alibis (1989)

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Back when I used to sing in a band myself, me and my fellow musicians used to always try to turn each other on to new music. And in the summer of '94 it was Hal Ketchum that we listened to. Lots. And on acoustic sets we used to play songs from his "Every Little Word" album. We loved the songs and the voice.
But before Hal made any impact in Nashville as a bit of an alternative Country-Singer/Songwriter (though not too gritty), he was part of the Austin scene, cutting his debut for the Watermelon label. Recorded in 1986, this was eventually released in 1989? And even more than his later albums, this was more in the Singer/Songwriter category. A nice album, and one I had been looking for for quite some time. Perfect remedy for a Sunday morning...

The Cates Gang - Come Back Home (1973)

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I'm gonna keep it short and sweet this time. The Cates Gang were Earl and Ernie Cate before Cate Bros./The Cate Brothers Band. You know how much Funk and Soul these guys put in their music. But this 1973 album reminds me even more of vintage soul. I'm real happy with this find. It sounds old, but beautiful. With eleven tunes clocking in under half an hour (how's that for short?), it's still quite a treat.

McHayes - Lessons In Lonely (2003)

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Okay, this is Country. No Southern Rock to be found here. But I figured since y'all love Southern Rock, chances are you dig some Country too?
Anyway, this is not in line with what I usually post. And I won't make a habit out of it. It's way too straight for me. But it's good. McHayes were a duo: Wade Hayes and Mark McClurg. This album was supposed to be released in 2003, but it got shelved instead. And then they got off the label's roster. And the music being kept from having an audience.
Like I said, it's Country straight up. Some Honky Tonk, some New Hats, slick but well played. If you like that, then this is yours and shouldn't go to waste.
So until this gets a release, I think this would be alright to post. I hope. The only other way you might get a chance to check this out, is if you want to pay up to nearly $400 on E-Bay. And guess who's making money off of that?
Thanks to The BavarianSouthStateRocker (pastecopy) for this contribution. Ride 'em cowboy.

Various Artists - Hotels, Motels & Road Shows (1978)

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Oh boy, oh boy, oh boy, oh boy! It's the holiday season coming up alright. Yet another bag of goodies here. This album is the perfect example of what I dig about Southern Rock. Ladies and gentlemen: it's the jackpot!
I knew about this album for a long time, and I wanted it really bad. But I never found a copy. But how cool is that? To find it's everything I'd expected, and then some..
"Hotels, Motels & Road Shows" is a compilation album, chockful of Capricorn recording artists. But this is no cheezy-cheapo-cash-in greatest hits of the label. No, no, no, no. It's a 1978 Rebel Jam! All exciting live performances, classic Southern Rock, and a guaranteed good time. And these tracks haven't been released on albums by the artists themselves. And some artists never released a live album to begin with. The artists: Stillwater, Elvin Bishop, The Allman Brothers Band, Bonnie Bramlett, Dickey Betts, Grinderswitch, Sea level, , The Marshall Tucker Band, Wet Willie and Dixie Dregs. You get the whole spectrum of Southern Rock on one album. Well, it gets very close to that. This is really, really good. Up among the bestest. For real!

Duke Williams & The Extremes - A Monkey In A Silk Suit Is Still A Monkey (1973)

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This album gets in by the Capricorn connection. I don't know much about Duke Williams & The Extremes, but I don't think they were actually from the South. They did however move to Macon to record two albums for the Capricorn label, this one being the first.
Released in 1973, this album is quite a soulful and funky experience. I hadn't heard this album before, and when I noticed there were some Soul classics covered here I was anxious this would be a lame Blue-Eyed attempt at playing Soul music. Well, thankfully I was wrong. This is one of the nicer surprises I had, while I have been blogging. No bland reproductions of classics here. They make it their own and get away with it very well. And there are some great originals. I'm really happy with this album. Makes me curious what the man has been doing after their second album. And if there are more recordings since. My first high of the day, today.

Buckacre - Buckacre (1978)

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Yes, it's here. Thanks to Nozmokinh for the rip, it's the second Buckacre album. And a quality rip it is too. It's still Buckacre, but they did indeed shape up for their second album, simply entitled "Buckacre". There's still a lot of Country influences, but it works real well. Like it did for The Outlaws, I guess. But it's a lot tougher than their debut. Some Boogie, some Country. But with an eye for detail, which gives the album extra depth. The playing sure feels like home, excellent songs, wonderful guitars and lovely vocals. What are you waiting for? You know you want this.

Crimson Tide - Reckless Love (1979)

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"Reckless Love" is the second and final album by Wayne Perkins' Crimson Tide. A band formed with his brother Dale after having played a lot as session guitarist. It's another good album, which may sound too slick for some, but it more than makes up by some excellent playing. The music ranges from Funk Rock to AOR to Southern Rock. Some marvelous songs too. And although this rip (done by Mawos - thanks!-) suffers from some severe vinyl damage, it's still a great listen. And quite an eclectic bunch of songs it is. So, if you're open minded about the music, this one's for you. Maybe this can serve as bait for a better rip to emerge. I hope so. So, sit you down and listen to the guitar antics of Wayne Perkins, while enjoying this great and rare record. Here you go...

Mose Jones - Get Right (1974)

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And finally we get to listen to the first Mose Jones album "Get Right". It's a great quality rip, so thanks to whoever made this available. It's quite a lovely record. First released on Al Kooper's 'Sounds Of The South'-label, this record was launched with the label, along with Skynyrd's "Pronounced" album. An important part of Southern Rock history, cause this is when Southern Rock started to become the kind of music that we know and love so well. When it became a big thing. Unfortunately Mose Jones never made it big, but it is a nice album. I prefer it to the "Mose Knows" album. It's hippy-ish rock at times, but there's some passionate singing going on. I quite enjoyed myself, listening to this album. There's a real nice interview on the Liens Sweet Home Music site, which you can find here (thank you, Luc), in which former Mose Jones drummer Bryan Cole shares some sensible points of view. The song "Old Man trouble" features slide guitar by Lowell George, and is one of the better songs. Nothing bad about this. Kiwi Stumble Boogie...

Two Guns - Balls Out (1979)

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The Two Guns album "Balls Out" is the first and last album of a talented band that were unfortunately getting signed when Southern Rock made its last stand. Released by Capricorn Records, the label was three releases away from getting bankrupt. How's that for a healthy future?Well, obviously, these guys never had much of a chance and this is where it ended to the public eye.
However, this Two Guns album is a bit of a Southern Rock classic. I find it rather hard to compare to any other band, since they definitely had a sound of their own. At times I hear similarities to The Charlie Daniels Band and Skynyrd. It's kind of heavy, but it's not dumb. Lots of interesting arrangements and fine playing. Nice vocals too. You may have seen this around already, but if you haven't picked it up yet... Balls out!

Rick Cunha - Moving Pictures (1975)

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This is the second album by Rick Cunha. It was recorded in 1975 as follow up to "Cunha Songs", though it took until 1980 for it to be released by Sierra/CBS. The style is very similar to that first album. It's Country Rock mostly, but Rick has his way with subtleties. And again he has Waylon strummin' an' hummin' along on some songs. And Jessi Colter.
This album isn't gonna blow your speakers. It's pleasant music for winding down in the evening, or outside in the sun whilst entertaining the family. You can't dance to it, can't bang you head to it, but it's a real nice record to just listen to. Good ol' days...

Law - Hold On To It (1978)

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Alright. This is the third and last album of Law. What started out as a Southern Rock band gone Funk, by now it's mostly Funk. But with Rock. And at times you might be so lucky to hear some trademark Southern Rock tricks. Some tasty guitar playing. And it's fun. I love it. But I'm funny that way.
This, yet again, is a rip by Nozmokinh. I think he must be smoking. (Thanks man.) I did some cleaning up and tagged it beautifully for your convenience. I really dig most of this album, though I do prefer the other two. But maybe it's because I'm just starting to get acquainted with this album. And there are two re-recorded songs from their first album, which both sound peachy. And it's good. Get it.

Mylon LeFevre - Over The Influence (1972)

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Praise the Lord. Here we have the third Mylon LeFevre album (of his R&R career, that is) courtesy of Nozmokinh. I had been looking for this album quite some time and I'm really grateful for this.
This pretty much picks up where "Holy Smoke" left off. Though some might argue it's slightly less of a Southern Rock album as the previous two. But the man has such a beautiful voice, and the music is soulful and warm, that it will grow on you no matter what. Again there's a little bit of everything: Rock, Soul and obviously Gospel influences. He even does "Blue Suede Shoes", though why he does it, is beyond me. The vinyl does suffer from listenable crackle, though when played on the home stereo set this was not a problem at all.
Well, enough already! Mylon was a great Southern Rock singer before he returned to being a Gospel icon. There aren't too many albums of Mylon doing this kind of music, so enjoy this. Thanks Nozmokinh! For the record...

Sundown - Sundown (1970)

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Be forewarned, this is for Southern Rock scholars only. Well, mostly. If you did any research into Southern Rock you may have read about this album. Sundown was a local Macon band that was in the studio with Paul Hornsby producing. Recording did not go smoothly, since the band broke up a couple of times during the recording. Paul Hornsby brought in some buddies and wound up finishing the record using names like Bill Stewart (Capricorn Rhythm Section), Charlie Hayward (later of The Charlie Daniels Band) and Chuck Leavell on piano (later of The Allman Brothers Band and Sea Level). Paul Hornsby of course also playing organ. And this was 1970.
On Redtelephone66 it was being compared to The Allman Brothers Band, but I think a better comparison would be their precursor: The Hour Glass. It's basically old school 60's rock, and at times a little country twang gives away its origin. All the same, this is how a lot of Southern Rock started out. So it's quite interesting to hear what music was being made in the South at the time Southern Rock was born. So, no lost gem here. It's nice, but that's all.

Hydra - Rock The World (1977)

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And sometimes you just need to post good albums, even though they can be pulled elsewhere, for the sake of keeping alive good music that's out of print. Mr. Dixie asked me how I felt about Hydra, and sent me a rip. I quite love Hydra, though in all fairness I have never played it as much as I should have. Which is what i did now. Cause by now I had several LP rips of the only Hydra album that never had a CD release. So before posting, I needed to know which rip was best. That took some listening...
It's some mighty fine Rock & Roll on this album: "Rock The World". It's loud, but it's far from being dumb. The arrangements of old school Southern Rock bands is something you don't hear much these days. Blackfoot used to be real good at that too: make it it sound simple, don't make it simple. Nice raunchy vocals and fine playing. Furthermore, the songs on this album are pretty cool as well. Makes for a hit soundtrack to shooting pool with friends, beer bottle in hand while banging your head to the groove.
I have no clue where this rip came from (no tags in files, but it's done @256 kbps and the size approx. 65MB), but I call it close to flawless. A wonderful record that plays wonderfully on my MP3-player. So, thanks to the ripper and thanks to Mr. Dixie. Come on boys & girls: Rock the world!

Buckacre - Morning Comes (1976)

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I was curious about Buckacre because I read about them in Popoff's "Southern Rock Review". I already knew that their first album had strong Country Rock tendencies and that their second album was much more of a Southern Rock album. And thanks to Carambola (who provided this rip) I can now get the first part of the picture.
These guys were not actually from the South (Illinois Valley). And the music on this album, their first, is indeed more in the vein of bands that fell somewhere in between West Coast and Southern Country Rock. There were quite a few bands that fall into this category: bands like Pure Prairie League, Cooper Brothers, Redwing and Ozark Mountain Daredevils. They did, at one time, rub shoulders with Southern Rock bands, as did many of the aforementioned bands. I guess that's why many people don't mind bands like these getting associated with the genre.
As for the music, well, it's very Country Rock. Only once in a while does it conjure up the spirit of Southern Rock. But it's nice music. Would do great at a BBQ with the in-laws. I'm glad I got a chance to listen to this. Makes me all the more curious about the second album. Popoff wrote some very nice comments on that one. So, until then...

Crimson Tide - Crimson Tide (1978)

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Alright, more goodies from Mawos. This time it's Crimson Tide, a band lead by yet another Southern legend: Wayne Perkins. Wayne Perkins is, like Steve Cropper and Pete Carr, one of the great session guitarists of that great melting pot of Southern music. He's been a Muscle Shoals picker and has played with loads of greats. He was also the lead guitarist spicing up the "Black & Blue" album by the Stones.
Crimson Tide was a band Wayne had with his brother Dale. They released two albums, this being the first. Once you get past the slickness, you'll find a really great album, full of splendid picking and singing. It's a little bit of everything on this album, but that's the way I like it best. There's soul, there's rock, some funk and all Southern flavored. Unfortunately the vinyl wasn't perfect, but it's still very listenable and, the most important thing, very enjoyable. Play this on you home stereo, not on you ipod. Harmful algae?

Steve Cropper - Playin' My Thang (1981)

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Steve Cropper is best known as session guitarist for Stax Records and part of Booker T. & The MG's. He's played besides people like Otis redding, Sam & Dave and Wilson Pickett. He also features in both Blues Brothers movies as 'The Colonel'. And he co-wrote "In The Midnight Hour" and "Sittin' On The Dock Of The Bay". Whoa!
Having played such an important role as sideman to lots of Southern Soul stars, it's no surprise this solo album isn't gonna blow your speakers. But this second Steve Cropper solo album is an album well worth checking out. Hey, if you dug the Cate Bros, you should definitely give this a spin. Let the good times roll...

Boatz - Boatz (1979)

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I had lots of good reasons for wanting this. First off, it's got Pete Carr picking that guitar. Pete's early recordings include The Hour Glass (on which he played bass), but later on he became a sought after session guitarist, regularly playing for Capricorn Records. This Boatz album is a Capricorn release too. Furthermore, Pete's released a couple of smoking solo albums and made an album with Lenny LeBlanc. All of which I liked lots. So, sounds good so far. Right?
Well... If by now you were expecting a classic Southern Rock album, think again. Classic, yes. Southern Rock, hardly. Very good Southern Pop, sure.
I've read it being compared to REO Speedwagon, and I can very well live with that. So this entry gets in by connection (Pete Carr & Capricorn Records), and it sure satisfied my curiosity (didn't kill me). It's a great little record. The rip was provided to me by Nozmokinh (big thank you!), I did a little manual editing. Take a ride.

Larry Jon Wilson - Ohoopee River Bottomland

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Alright, now sit back and enjoy this excerpt of the wonderful Heartworn Highways documentary. This is Larry Jon Wilson recording Ohoopee River Bottomland in the studio. Larry Jon knows what he wants and he's quite the presence.On top of that, it's a really great song. Some funky country.
Heartworn Highways is a great documentary about some Southern singer-songwriters, like Townes and Guy, but also features The Charlie Daniels Band. I posted another video of this DVD earlier by Barefoot Jerry. So, if you liked that and you love this, then go out and buy it. It's still available and worth every penny.
Now, watching this got me wanting those old Larry Jon Wilson records. Anybody got a good rip of those?

George Hatcher Band - Dry Run (1976)

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Well, I guess by now it's no longer a secret that I think that George Hatcher is one of the greatest unsung heroes of Southern Rock. C'mon you people, download all you can by George Hatcher. Then start mailing labels, such as Wounded Bird, about how wonderful this world would be if all Hatcher albums would be released on CD. Great as some LP rips may be, I'll gladly pay for a genuine digital replacement of my old albums. And then the next thing, of course, would be to get George out of his retirement. Obviously, we first need to know his current whereabouts (North Carolina, anyone?). And then convince him to start singing again. We can do it, if we put our minds to it. Yes, we can!
Enough politics. This is the first George Hatcher Band release. Based in the UK and recording for United Artists. George always had a great Feat-esque groove to his brand of Southern Boogie. And the arrangements are really well worked out. And just when you think it's straight ahead rock, there's a twist and a bend. It's all highly original, though not at first glance. With George Hatcher, you gotta take a chance. And let it grow. Cause it will grow on you. You have my word.

Law - Breakin' It (1977)

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Well, I sure got lucky. In the last week I got offered the second Law album 'Breakin' It' twice. Both mr. Dixie and, while I was standing at the crossroads, by Nozmokinh. I thank you gentlemen both! It is very much appreciated. I took the one and tried my best at cleaning up the sound. The results are very satisfactory when listening on your home stereo. On an mp3-player, however, you can't help but notice a lot of hiss and crackle. Just like the vinyl of the first Law album, which was my own. Guess Law music is just too much of a good thing that makes you want to party hard to, boogie with your baby and drink more than you can stand. And wreck the vinyl in the process... (If anyone out there thinks he can update these to better versions, please, contact me through e-mail)
Cause that's it with Law. It's funk rock you want to enjoy with friends and beer. And while their first album had an undeniable Southern feel to it, on this one it's a long stretch. This is Funk Rock, very 70's! Guess I don't mind a little stretchin'. This is fun music, really well played and extremely enjoyable. Take this. I'm funked!

Mylon LeFevre - Holy Smoke (1971)

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I know some of y'all did enjoy the 1970 album 'Mylon' (also known as 'We Believe'), on which Mylon LeFevre left his straight up Gospel behind in favor of some classic down home Southern Rock. On 'Holy Smoke' he follows up on the promise, and doing so quite well. It's definitely old school/vintage Southern Rock, but it's top of the line. Mylon would continue his Rock & Roll show until the early 80's, after which he committed himself full-time again to Gospel. And leading a ministry of course. What a great voice, though. What a lucky guy God is... Holy smoke!

Sweet Pickle Salad - Sweet Pickle Salad (1993)

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Guess most people would be wanting this recording of Sweet Pickle Salad because of The Black Crowes connection. I came across it while looking for Andy Sturmer (Jellyfish) related recordings. I never was a Crowes fan, but I was pleasantly surprised at how great a Southern Rock recording this turned out to be. Maybe it helped having mr. Sturmer around, maybe I should just revise my point of view regarding The Crowes... This is great. If you haven't got, by all means, get it.

Blue Jug - Blue Jug (1978)

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One of my earliest posts was the Capricorn debut album by Blue Jug (or Blue Jug Band, as they're sometimes referred to). Thanks to Mawos (happy birthday buddy!) we now get a chance to sit down and listen to part two of their career. This would also be their last outing. Unfortunately the vinyl is far from perfect. But if you just listen to it on your stereo (instead of using earplugs with an mp3-player) it's really alright. If anyone can get their hands on a clean copy, please, do inform me...
So, how about the music? Well, I thought the first album sounded a lot like The Band. This album sounds less like The Band and more like a really good Southern Rock album, with heavy leanings towards Country Rock. I read about Blue Jug on Allmusic, and they're wrong about this being a re-release of their 1975 debut. It's all new and it's all good. Instead of Buddy Spicher on fiddle, we now have Rufus Thibodeaux on violin. Also playing is Randy Scruggs on guitar. But just listen to the sample and judge for yourself...
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EDIT October 15: After posting this album in questionable quality, I requested a better copy.. Which I got from Luc. So, merci monsieur. Today I posted the new version, which is definitely a serious improvement. New link is up. Enjoy!

The Marshall Tucker Band - The Lost Demos (1968-1971)

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There's not a lot of unreleased MTB material circulating, and these demos have been circulating widely. But they are so charming, and they fit right in with this here little ol' blogspot, so here you are.
First off are three songs recorded at Studios-Greenville in South Carolina. Where else? Included is a real early version of the Toy Caldwell classic 'Can't You See'. And just like Lynyrd Skynyrd, The Marshall Tucker Band also cut some demos at the Muscle Shoals Sound Studios in Sheffield Alabama. One song we haven't heard before or since is called 'Cookin'', which is a very unlike-MTB instrumental. Nice to hear when they were still searching for that rainbow. Cause they sure found that pot of gold eventually. But not at this stage yet.
Closing this recording are three songs by Jerry Eubanks' former outfit, Southeastern Music Corporation. This is a more r&b influenced band, that plays 'Rainy Night In Georgia' and Santana's 'Evil Ways'. Groovy.
It's really nice to get some background information on MTB's origin. What with The Allman Brothers' and Skynyrd's past being so well documented in box sets, etc, it's about time MTB got a similar treatment. But until then, well, it's a beginning.

Rick Cunha - Cunha Songs (1974)

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This is one of my all time favorite albums. It's also one of those albums that is virtually impossible to categorize. It's not Southern Rock, though 'Jesse James (Is An Outlaw, Honey)' sure comes close. It's not Country, though at times it is. Maybe Outlaw Country? Well, it's Waylon-endorsed. He sings back-up. But it's the exciting, creative side of Outlaw Country. And it's also Country Rock, though it has nothing to do with West Coast slickness or Nitty Gritty bluegrass.
Rick Cunha started out with a band called Hearts & Flowers, who were like the forerunners of Country Rock, along with the Byrds and the Dillards. Cunha left after their first album and wound up in Nashville, playing with Emmylou Harris' Hot Band. At that time he also recorded two solo albums, this one being the first. The second, 'Moving Pictures' was recorded in 1975, but wasn't released until 1980. After that I lost track, though I did have a radio broadcast of him doing Hawaii music.
This album, though, is really the one to have. It's an eclectic happening, but it's happening alright. It features the song 'Yo Yo Man' and has the only Country song I know of that lasts over ten minutes.
I was a little reluctant to rip this, since the vinyl I have wasn't in mint condition. But it turned out fairly okay. I just played it and I was loving every minute of it. So, give it a try. A little yo yo music...

Stephen Miller - Stephen Miller (1970)

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Don't nobody freak, this has nothing to do with Steve Miller. This is Stephen Miller, who most Southern Rock fans will know as the keyboard player/singer who joined Grinderswitch for their 'Pullin' Together' album (their third). Before that, Stephen played as 'Steve' on early records of Elvin Bishop. And on this album by Steve/Stephen, he is joined by Elvin on guitar. Also playing along is Bishop's harmonica player Applejack. So, the music on this record is more like the pre-Capricorn sound of The Elvin Bishop Group. A good blues rock album and very interesting from a historical point of view. The roots of Southern Rock alright.
Courtesy of Mawos, who provided the LP-rip. You all ears?

Eric Quicy Tate - Rock 'N' Roll Transfusion (1989)

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Eric Quincy Tate's live recording 'Rock 'N' Roll Transfusion' was a documentation of their 20 year reunion concert. As far as I can tell, it was never released on vinyl or CD. Only as a cassette tape on the Chiken Scratch (!) label. I had this sent to me as a gift a couple of years back (on CD), so I did not have the original artwork.
As for the recording, this sounds like a decent soundboard to me. It's Eric Quincy Tate, so you know what to expect. Barroom boogie all the way. Boogie baby..
Edit Sept 20 2008: Big thanks to Luc for providing us with the original cassette tape jacket:


Luc is my hero of the month. Not just because of this contribution. No, better yet, he's gonna tell us all about George Hatcher (and whatever happened after his known carreer) soon in an interview for Bands Of Dixie. And since George is my all-time-favorite lost hero... I'll keep you posted!

George Hatcher Band - Talkin' Turkey (1977)

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'Talkin' Turkey' is the second album by the George Hatcher Band. George Hatcher from Charlotte, North Carolina, made some of the finest Southern Rock albums I know of. Alas there were only 4 and a half. I (myself), like many others searching Google, have wondered often whatever became of the man. George Hatcher, where art thou?
Anyway, back to this album. It's yet another rock solid album. There's something about George's singing that soothes the soul. And he's got some. I'm in love with that voice. And the tunes are splendid too. Not too heavy but enough guitar antics going on to classify this as classy classic Southern Rock. Check out 'Forty Ford' and, well, check it all out. This is not my rip, though I did fiddle with it slightly. So, thanks to the original ripper, whoever you are. Talkin' turkey!

Gov't Mule - XM Satellite Radio (2006)

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This is Gov't Mule live in the studio, promoting their 'High & Mighty' album, as it was broadcast on XM Satellite Radio. I guess. But it's a great recording. I know that for a fact. C'mon, you all know and love The Mule. Just get it already.

Raging Slab - Black Belt In Boogie (1995)

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I previously posted 'From A Southern Space' and 'Freeburden'. 'Black Belt In Boogie' is the last unreleased album of Raging Slab.
What can I say about Raging Slab that hasn't been said already? They're one of the best kept secrets of Southern Rock. They're raunchy, they rock hard and they sure do boogie! Some of these songs wound up, re-recorded, on the 'Sing Monkey Sing' album. This album is a lot better, though...
If you need a sample of what the band is like, check out the video below.



Like what you see? Then get the album...

Mother's Finest - Mother's Finest (1972)

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What do you mean, Mother's Finest isn't Southern Rock? Don't you own a copy of Martin Popoff's 'Southern Rock Review'? It's virtually the bible to Southern Rock... Or is it?
Well, I know. It's hardly Southern Rock, even though mr. Popoff did write kindly about MF in his book. They hail from Atlanta, Georgia: so they're Southern. But they play funk-rock. If you really strain yourself, you might hear some Southern Rock in it. But this is one of my all time favorite bands. And this record has been on my wishlist like forever. I still don't own a copy. This is not my rip, but it's a very good rip. Mother's Finest distanced themselves from this record. I guess that must have had something to do with the record company, cause this is as good as it gets. The first three songs are a bit feeble, especially production-wise. But when track 4 kicks in, things start cooking. This might not be Southern Rock persé, but I'm convinced a lot of visitors to this site will be extremely happy with this post. Oh, and drummer Barry "BB Queen" Borden went on to play with bands like Molly Hatchet and The Outlaws. So what do you reckon? Is it justified?

Amazing Rhythm Aces - Mystery Train (1975)

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If you're expecting another full album, I'm sorry. One track is all you get here. Everything by Amazing Rhythm Aces has been released on CD and can be purchased easily. This song however has not yet seen the digital light of day.
Originally released in 1975, this was the b-side to 'Third Rate Romance'. The song 'Mystery Train' was written by Herman Parker and Sam Phillips (of Sun Records) and it's a nice addition to their 'Stacked Deck' album. Why it was never added as a bonus track to the CD release is beyond me. But here you have it.

Stargunn - Making Up For Lost Tracks With Ammunition (2003)

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Before Shooter Jennings became the Southern Rock Outlaw he is today, he was walking up quite a different road. Stargunn, the first band he recorded with, was a far stretch from what we know and love him for now. At times it's like a punk alternative to the whole Southern Rock genre. Then again, we all need a kick in the rear sometimes. Wake us up a bit, not allowing ourselves to be too pleased with what we came up some 40 years ago. Keep the music alive, really.
This album, 'Making Up For Lost Tracks With Ammunition', consists of demos, outtakes and the unreleased EP 'Ammunition'. Hence the title.
Be forewarned that this is quite a different take on Southern Rock than you're used from me. But it's all good fun just the same. Also included here is the Stargunn version of 'I've Always Been Crazy', recorded for the Waylon Tribute of the same name. Wake up, y'all..

Cooder Browne - Cooder Browne (1978)

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Cooder Browne was a Southern Rock band that released one (their only) album on the Lone Star label (which was Willie's label). It's very country and Texan! If you're into the MTB and Outlaws, but also dig Texas country and even some TexMex (Jalapeno Lady), you'll love this. It has some great fiddling too. It was recorded at Capricorn Studios and produced by Paul Hornsby. Guest appearances by Toy Caldwell (steel guitar) and Jimmy Nalls (of Sea Level).
Another McCluth LP-rip, first brought to you on Skydog's Elysium. Hee-haw!

Jack Pearson - Live! (1997)

♫

Jack Pearson is a really great sounding guitarist. Though this is mostly a blues affair (and I'm not much of a blues fan myself), I find plenty good reasons to include this recording on Skydog's Elysium. Jack has played on records by Gregg Allman and Jimmy Hall (Wet Willie), and has toured with The Allman Brothers Band (replacing Warren Haynes before Derek Trucks filled the spot). And when I hear Jack play, I don't mind the blues at all! Very melodic, tasteful playing and blues with a funky twist. I highly recommend his 'Step Out!' album to any serious Southern Rock fan. A very soulful, well-played piece of work. But if you need to convince yourself first, check out this 1997 radio broadcast of Jack Pearson & The Nationals. Live!

Gary & Randy Scruggs - The Scruggs Brothers (1972)

♫

I got the idea of ripping this album when I read the review of Charlie Daniels' duets album 'Deuces'. He does a track with The Scruggs Brothers, which are Gary & Randy Scruggs. Gary and Randy of course being sons of the legendary bluegrass banjo picking Earl Scruggs. Earl Scruggs and his sons made some very interesting albums for Southern Rock fans throughout the 70's as The Earl Scruggs Revue (they had the greatest guests on their albums, ranging from Waylon to Amazing Rhythm Aces).
Before The Earl Scruggs Review however, Gary & Randy Scruggs made two album for Vanguard, the first being produced by Charlie Daniels (released on CD with bonus tracks). The second album, this one, features 'Little Maggie', which Charlie does with The Scruggs Brothers on his duets album 'Deuces'. How about that?
So what about the music, you ask? Well, it's not Lynyrd Skynyrd or The Allman Brothers Band. But it's rock, it's Southern and it has nice songs. Obviously there are bluegrass influences, but that is a welcome addition to this great album. Grab this, you'll be glad you did.

Grinderswitch - Have Band Will Travel (1981)

♫

I always thought Grinderswitch was a bit of a strange band. Maybe it's because I'm used to Skynyrd, Blackfoot and The Allmans. But Grinderswitch has many songs on which they come on very strong, like something wild's going to happen, but then it just falls flat on its face. But not really. Cause it's really good. Just not what you'd expect a Southern Rock band to be doing. I don't know. Maybe it's the plodding country bass. It just gets comfortable, never raunchy. It's by no means anything like Black Oak. But if you don't mind that, try this...
This album is quite an obscurity. I see everything else circulating, but not this one. And what reviews I have read of it, it's all pretty bad. But I do not agree. I think it's one of their most enjoyable albums.
I did not rip this one myself. It had some serious flaws. I tried my best to make it better. I think I did. And I really do like the songs. So if you're bound and determined, here's some golden minutes...

Shooter Jennings - Bonnaroo Music Festival (2006)

♫

Shooter Jennings is Waylon's son. Like you didn't know. So, do you wonder whether he's got it in him too? Can he follow in the footsteps of his father. You bet yer sweet poopah he can. Not only is he a worthy heir to his father, he's also the (only) one doing justice to the legacy of Ronnie Van Zant. He's doing what Skynyrd so desperately need to be doing. But they're not. And Shooter does.
Shooter's released three studio albums as a solo artist. Before that he was in a band called Stargunn (which I recently found as well). But his solo albums are great Southern Rock affairs, obviously mixed with a heavy dose of outlaw country. But a hell of a lot more sincere than e.g. Travis Tritt.
Shooter's the real deal. I saw him play a while back and I was really impressed by the genuineness of the man, his band and the music. So give it a shot. Here's Shooter.

Just to whet your appetite (in case you still have doubts?), here's a video from Shooter's first album. If you like it, I suggest you go buy all his albums. You won't be disappointed.



Shooter Jennings - Steady At The Wheel

Jackson Highway - Jackson Highway (1980)

♫

Well, my buddy Mawos' gone and done it again. I've been looking for this album for some 20 years now. So was Mawos, but he's found it, sent it to me and I did the editing. And it turned out real well!
Jackson Highway were named by Jimmy Johnson (Muscle Shoals Sound Studios rhythm guitarist) after the address of the famed Sheffield, Alabama studios. Originally from Dayton, here these guys cut this classic Southern Rock album. And these guys are rocking out alright. It's all good here: the songs, the playing and the singing.
My attention got drawn to this album when I read Rick Medlocke and Greg Walker of Blackfoot played along. Tell you the truth, I don't hear it. Then again, mr. Medlocke is playing some drums here, so... But nothing's lost, like I said, it's all good! The band got additional help, obviously, from some Muscle Shoals pickers. So you're right when you expect some tasty playing. Rave on!

Mac Gayden - Hymn To The Seeker (1976)

♫

Mac Gayden was one of the original members of Barefoot Jerry and before that of Area Code 615. Both bands consisted of country session pickers with a knack for rock and roll. Though slightly offbeat. And using whatever influence necessary for creating exiting music. A footnote in Southern Rock, especially Barefoot Jerry were an eclectic force to be reckoned with. A shame hardly anybody noticed (though Charlie Daniels did mention them in 'The South's Gonna Do it Again').
After Barefoot's debut Mac went on to become a solo artist, releasing three albums in the 70's. This one, 'Hymn To The Seeker', is my favorite. It has a bit of a hippie-feel to it, but it's also very adventurous and all good fun. Play this in the garden while you're BBQ-ing with some friends in the sun. It's a treat!
When I was about to make a new rip of this, I searched if it wasn't already circulating. Turns out it was, but all I could find were some dead links. So I ripped it at 256 kbps. It turned out very nice, but after I was done I found the other version. I grabbed that one, and I must say that one is very good too.
Anyhoo, here you have it.

Mose Jones - Blackbird (1978)

♫

Mose Jones. Their third album. Half the line-up changed and the music took a left turn. But not for the worse. Though very slick, this is pretty cool. Good musicianship, leaning towards Toto (as in its slickness) and the like, and better songs than Mose Knows. This has as much to do with Southern Rock as funky fusion. But tasty picking, southern alright, and finally getting the chance to get familiar with the Mose Jones legacy.
Apparently they recorded another album for RCA after this one. I'm praying that one will ever come up floating. And I still need the first one, 'Get Right'. Sounds Of The South?

Doc Holliday - Legacy (1996)

♫

Doc Holliday hasn't had the recognition it deserves, I feel. Though they made a couple of uneven albums, some are amongst the classics of Southern Rock.
This album has been out of print for a long time. Actually, I couldn't even get a copy right after its release. But I got one. And now you do too. It's one of their finest as well (besides the first two and the live album). So until a re-release, enjoy.

And, as a summer vacation gift, a bonus for you lot. A nice short concert video (mp4) of Doc Holliday playing the Marquee in London. It's a down home, raise hell, redneck rock and roll band!

Gregg Allman & The Alabama All-Star Soul Revue (1994)

♫

This is the Gregg Allman live album to have. Unfortunately it has never been released, but it's circulating amongst traders. This is Gregg doing his Southern Soul thing. And it's red hot and cooking. Great sound, great band, great tracklist. It's much better than any official release. Smokin'.

The Marshall Tucker Band - Can't You See

☺


Don't talk, just listen: Can't you see?

Mylon LeFevre - Mylon (1970)

♫

Alright, it's gospel-time, ya'll! Well, sort of. This album by Mylon LeFevre is undeniably gospel-related. Hell, he sings about God and all. But don't let that spoil your fun. I won't, and I really love this album. And it's definitely very much Southern Rock!
Mylon's family were The LeFevres, a famous gospel group. But Mylon first needed to put his faith to the test, I guess. So he did the rock 'n' roll thing. And quite good too. This LP, Mylon (also known as 'We Believe'), from 1970 is easily his best. Another nice one is 'Weak At The Knees'. Though that LP cover would scare most any human being off. Since the eighties he's refound his faith, and more so than ever. He's recorded some very slick gospelrock CD's, stuff you really don't need to hear (yes, that's my opinion!) throughout the eighties and nineties. He's now a preacher man. ... have mercy...


I thought this photo was too good to be true. Players on this album are: Mylon LeFevre, Kim Venable, Barry Bailey, Auburn Burrell, Dean Daughtry, Ron Graybeal and Paul Goddard (quite some Atlanta Rhythm Section pickers). The recording engineer was Rodney Mills, the record was produced by Allen Toussaint.

Warren Haynes - Some Ordinary Madness (1991)

♫

Here are the demos Warren Haynes made for his first solo album Tales Of Ordinary Madness. What can I say about this, other than: these are essential recordings for any Southern Rock fan. I believe Warren must be the savior of Southern Rock. Cause it was at a dead-end before Warren joined the Allman Brothers, as far as I'm concerned. Check out the Wintertime Blues CD, a modern day Volunteer Jam with lots of really cool guests...
These demos circulate widely across the internet. But if you haven't already got these, by all means, get them quick! Personally I prefer this album to most Gov't Mule albums (though Deja Voodoo is in a same class). Some Ordinary Madness, no ordinary songs. Red hot and cookin'!

George Hatcher Band - Have Band Will Travel (1977)

♫

Yep, it's George Hatcher. Again... Yeah!
This is the 10" EP Have Band Will Travel. It's a live effort which features 4 tracks. It's also very much sought after. And thanks to Mawos we now at last get a chance to listen to it. It wasn't Mawos' rip, but he sent it to me. It suffered from a nasty ground hum. I did my best to fix it as best as I could, but there are still places where it's audible. If I tried to fix that, it would mess up the recording. It's not as bad as I make it sound, though. But if at anytime a better source becomes available, I would surely check that out too.
Back to the music: it's good ol' Southern Boogie. And you just gotta love George's voice. And band. So, get it!

Lenny LeBlanc - Breakthrough (1981)

♫

This is a happy album for ya. Lightweight, some gospel influence and some tasty playing by the folks from Muscle Shoals Sound Studios. Produced by Barry Beckett in 1981, this was the second and last Southern Rock album by Lenny LeBlanc (besides an album with guitarist Pete Carr from 1978). From then on it would mostly be christian music.
I would buy this album if I could get a CD copy. But they are no longer commercially available, and second hand they come at rather high prices. So I hope you will enjoy this album rip.