Travis Tritt - Homesick (1993)

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Travis "Strike-A-Pose" Tritt is one of my favorite 'new' Country singers. Very much inspired by both Outlaw Country and Southern Rock, Travis has produced quite a few tracks which should interest any Southern Rock fan. Trouble with Travis, in my opinion, is that he sounds over produced most of the time. Even when you see him performing on concert videos. And everything looks just a little too neat, the hair way over coiffured, the leather always looking spanking new. Well, you get the picture. It distracts from the music. And music is quite good at times, especially when he's rocking out. Half the time he's pleasing the ladies, singing ballads. The other half he's singing some stompin' Honky Tonk and some Southern Rock added for flavor. Here he is live in concert, a show from 1993 in New York. This features a live version of his version of the Atlanta Rhythm Section's "Homesick", which can be found in the original version on the ARS album "Quinella". This one's for Outlaws like us.

Blackfoot - After The Reign (1994)

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Yep, it's Blackfoot. In name anyway. Cause, really, anything released since the "Vertical Smiles" album could just as well be categorized as yet another Rickey Medlocke solo album. And this is a pretty good one at that. It sounds all rather rootsy, which is a good thing in my book. I prefer that over the slick Southern AOR he produced on "Rick Medlocke And Blackfoot" from 1987. This sounds like real music, played with real instruments. Some great original tunes and some fine covers (splendid version of Van Morrison's "Tupelo Honey"). Since this qualifies as a solo album, I took the liberty of adding two tracks Rickey did for the L.A. Blues Authority series ("Texas Flood" from "Hats Off To Stevie Ray" and "Wrapped Up In Love Again" from "Fit For A. King"). Now, I still hoping for an actual Blackfoot reunion with all surviving members. I'd rather have a new Blackfoot album than anything else. Hang time!

Hank Williams, Jr. - A Time To Sing (1968)

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This album was requested, and here it is. If you dig the Hank Williams, Jr. of the Outlaw Country albums, then look further. This is when he was still doing the solid Country thingy. Nothing spectacular but pretty alright just the same. I reckon this may be a bit too Country for most of this blog's readers. But if you like a little Honky Tonk now and again, this won't disappoint. Oh, and I added some bonus tracks, since this only ran at approx. 23 minutes. A time to sing?

The Marshall Tucker Band - Southern Spirit (1990)

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20 years ago I got this CD as a Xmas present. And it has been one of my favorite Marshall Tucker albums of all time. Even though this is post Toy Caldwell-era, this ranks among their finest albums. But that's just my humble opinion. And that's what I'm giving you. The Marshall Tucker Band I want to hear. Unlike its rather poor predecessor, on which Doug Gray really overdid it on the vibrato and which had pretty bland songs, here they really made good. Excellent songs, very well played: a true Southern Rock classic. Well, to hear it is to believe it. I suppose. Merry Christmas!

Lynyrd Skynyrd - Atlanta 1993 (1993)

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Really, ever since Lynyrd Skynyrd released their second live album, there hardly has been any reason for buying a third or fourth. They mostly feature pretty much the same setlist over and over again. And don't we all crave for them to do something different, actually play some songs from their later albums with Johnny Van Zant? I know I do. Those albums all had some pretty fine tracks, well worth mixing up with the old classic. Well, you must've guessed it already, help is on the way. This album, "Atlanta 1993", is what you need. Lynyrd Skynyrd in support of their "The Last Rebel" album, this gives us a good measure of the new songs, as well as some old. And then some. "Outta Hell In My Dodge", "The Last Rebel" and "Good Lovin's Hard To Find" up against "That Smell" and "Saturday Night Special". And more candy along the way, in the form of "Sweet Home Alabama" sung in duet with Donnie Van Zant. But the real treat here is a sweet version of the Rossington Collins Band classic "Don't Misunderstand Me", sung by Dale Krantz with Travis Tritt. Excellent audio and introduction by their old friend, Mr. Al Kooper. How good can you get it? Hey! I'm modest in demand. I'm a simple man...

Rusty Wier - Stoned, Slow, Rugged (1974)

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This is Rusty Wier's debut album. And it's the one most likely to win over new converts among Southern Rock fans. It's tough yet homey. Above all, it's excellent. I could go on at lengths about Rusty, but what it all boils down to: grab this people! Rusty Wier is too good to miss out on. Great songs, ranging from pure Southern Rock to Outlaw Country. Rusty would never walk the line, he's always had his own plan. Too bad he's no longer among us. But at least he's left us some of the finest music most of you never heard. And I think it's time for a change. Get busted!

Calibre 12 - Toujours Là (2000)

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"Toujours Là" is the second CD from French Rock Sudiste band Calibre 12. Quite a bold move releasing a double CD so soon. And it's not even a live album. So, what you get is loads of French sung Southern Rock. It's all pretty straight forward and quite heavy. Biker music? I know it's made me a heavy drinker alright. Apparently Calibre 12, who made their last album in 2005, have plans to return to recording and touring in 2011. So be sure to check out their site. In the meanwhile, absorb this piece and learn to sing the lyrics by heart. I'm pretty sure that would be appreciated if you go see them next year, whenever they stop in a town near you. Ne Me Reveillez Pas!

Le Roux - Louisiana's Le Roux (1978)

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Louisiana's Le Roux, as this band was originally called on their first two albums, offers yet another original take on Southern Rock. With a definite NOLA twist, this band also had some similarities to bands like Kansas. In sound that is, cause there's no Progressive Rock to be found here (Kerry Livgren did use Le Roux vocalist Jeff Pollard on his excellent "Seeds Of Change", also featuring Mylon LeFevre...). Some superb musicianship, sure enough! This may be a bit slick to some, but it's a far cry from being lackluster. Superior vocal harmonies, terrific songwriting, faultless picking and.. And it's all good stuff, played with verve and pizazz. Check out "New Orleans Ladies", "Take A Ride On A Riverboat" and Slow Burn". Heavenly days .

Amazing Rhythm Aces - Full House - Aces High (1981)

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Like Barefoot Jerry, the Amazing Rhythm Aces were a highly underrated band on the 70's Southern Rock scene. By the mass audience that is. Cause any serious music lover who is into Southern Rock, will praise this band to heaven. Another bunch of clever cats, just a bit too clever too hit the big time. They did produce a hit, however, with the song "Third Rate Romance" from their debut album, "Stacked Deck". And that album, like any album they issued since, was/is a masterpiece. It's all kinda laid back with some Country and lots of Rhythm & Blues. Excellent musicians and the coolest subtle vocals by Mr. Russell Smith. This is a live album which collects their finest songs in a splendid live document. You can buy it at Amazon for 500 bucks. So, you might want to check it out first. I know you won't be sorry. Aces High!

The Jolly Brothers Band - Typical Barroom Scene (1978)

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The Jolly Brothers Band were/are from Missouri. Other than that I could hardly find anything about these guys. They have a Myspace page, but they don't seem to be updating anymore. Still, there are some songs on their playlist there that aren't on this album. And this album is here by courtesy of my French Connection (Luc & Jacques). This album should appeal to all of you fans of the more Country oriented Southern Rock band, like The Outlaws. Not Country Rock of the lame sort, this definitely has more bite to it. Some of the vocals remind me of Billy Jones of The Outlaws. But The Jolly Brothers Band sure are a band of their own. Splendid album, very much worth your time checking out. Not a typical barroom scene...

Barefoot Jerry - Watchin' TV (1974)

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If you know the Charlie Daniels' song "The South's Gonna Do It Again", you may know about Barefoot Jerry. These cats were from Nashville and consisted of some of the finest session pickers. They arose from the ashes of Area Code 615 and transformed into one of the most original acts of the 70's Southern Rock scene. Of course they were just a little too clever and eclectic to get picked up by the masses. But this album, their finest hour (in my opninion), might win over a heart or two. There's really nothing bad about this album. They're Rockin' the Country with plenty of Soul. Check out the video I posted earlier, then get this album and get wise. Hey!. Would I let you down?! Surely not. Hay Queen!

Wet Willie - Wet Willie II (1972)

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Second album by Wet Willie. And they're cooking up another fine stew of sweet Southern Rock,m laced with lots of Soul and oozing with energy. Maybe not your regular Southern fare, if you're used to sticking with Skynyrd and the likes, but Wet Willie is finger licking good, alright. This album is where the band first starts sounding like the band you might know from hits like "Keep On Smilin'. Really, this is party music at its very best. Great vocals by Jimmy Hall and some hot rocking from the rest of the gang. Red hot chicken!

Atlanta Rhythm Section - '96 - (1996)

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When the Atlanta Rhythm Section reformed in the 90's, this is what they issued first: a selection of old songs, re-recorded for a new generation. I think it's a bit weird they would do that, since there's hardly any difference to the originals. Maybe not all albums were available on CD at that time? I don't know. What we get is pretty solid, though nothing spectacular. And, alas, no new songs. But loads of classics all the same. And there's nothing wrong with these new versions either. So, if you're new to the Atlanta Rhythm Section, this will give you a fairly good idea what these guys were all about. Laid-back, sweet Southern Rock. Jukin'!

Dixie Dregs - The Great Spectacular (1975)

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Dixie Dregs featured/features (they still get together, now and again) guitar picker extraordinaire, Mr. Steve Morse. Steve plays with Deep Purple these days, and has in the past played with Kansas. And all the while, off and on, he's been playing with the Steve Morse Band. But Dixie Dregs was where it all started, as far as releases go (to my knowledge anyway). And this, "The Great Spectacular", was their debut. Issued as an independent record, this was recorded at the university where they were students at the time. This is a nice piece of raw enthusiasm with some expert playing. Nothing like you might expect from Southern Rock, then again, in the early 70's anything went. Dixie Dregs were from Georgia, and there are definite Southern qualities to be found here. But beware, overall this has more to do with Jazz Fusion than regular Rock. Great stuff, though. Dixie Dregs later were signed to the Capricorn label, and all their albums are well worth checking out. Wages of weirdness...

Raging Slab - Dynamite Monster Boogie Concert (1993)

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I reckon "Dynamite Monster Boogie Concert" is among the very best of Raging Slab releases (along with their self titled album for RCA). It's a shame so few people out there really know this band. They were plugged, at the time of the RCA release, as a cross between Lynyrd Skynyrd and Metallica. Well, I guess. To me there's nothing quite like the Slab. They're raging. This album actually has quite some ZZ Top in it as well. And this one features some of their best songs. Just give this one at least five spins, and, believe you me, it will have you hooked. Singer/guitarist Gregory Strzempka has one of the finest classic rock voices ever. Easily. And some tasty slide guitar by Elyse Steinman (his now-wife?). Their last album dates from 2002 and their website has been in the middle of being updated for some years now. Come back Raging Slab, move that thang!

Mother's Finest - Live At Lochem (1981)

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The good people at Wounded Bird have gone and done it again. This time they re-released the very first album by Mother's Finest on CD. For the very first time ever. I had been searching for a vinyl copy of that album for over thirty years. And while I did eventually find an mp3 rip of it, that copy is nothing like the real deal. Hell, it gets even better, since they released this as a double CD also including their first album for Epic records. And that ain't all! Also included here is an entire album which was never brought out at all, a follow-up to their debut from 1972. The 1973 never released album is just as wonderful as that debut. That's basically Southern Soul Rock, y'all. And performed marvelously. So go on, buy that!


In the meanwhile, I figured I'd give you some more Mother's Finest. To go. In the form of a wonderful 1981 live show, performed at the Dutch Lochem festival. It's a lot heavier than any 70's outing of the band, but my readers should certainly enjoy this lots. Gone are the keyboards, enter a second guitar, and what we get is some serious Southern Funk Rock. This is a great sounding SBD that should get you riled up alright. Get yourself some piece of the rock!!

Rusty Wier - Stacked Deck (1977)

♫

"Stacked Deck" was the follow-up to "Black Hat Saloon" and is rocking slightly more. But still there's that unmistakable voice. And some more than adequate picking. Here Rusty tries his hand at Lindsey Buckingham's "Lola" and "Don't Let Me Down Again" (both from the Buckingham Nicks album), and succeeding convincingly. No original Rusty Wier songs this time around, but a great selection of songs all the same. Top-notch Outlaw Country, boys & girls! Oh, and did I mention that voice already? Good, good lovin'.

Black Oak Arkansas - The Black Attack Is Back (1986)

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"The Black Attack Is Back" was the follow up to Jim Dandy's album "Ready As Hell". On the cover it still mentions Jim Dandy in big writing, Black Oak Arkansas in small letters underneath. something to do with the rights to using the name and contracts, I guess. Nevertheless, this is very much Black Oak alright. Like its predecessor, this was released on the Heavy Metal America label. Production-wise, you can tell the band no longer had the backing of a major record label. Still, the music is pretty solid. And most of all, like any BOA record, it's big fun. This one isn't gonna win over any new believers. But if you already dug Black Oak Arkansas before, you might as well grab this too. Last song on the album: "(I Want A Woman With) Big Titties". Hee-haw! Body slam!

Sammy Johns - Sammy Johns (1973)

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I first learned about Sammy Johns through Waylon Jennings' covers of Sammy's songs "Chevy Van" and "America". And then I ran into this album, which was a bit of a shocker for me at the time. It would be for you too, if you were expecting 70's Outlaw Country. Cause what it is, if anything can describe this properly, is something like Southern Outlaw Hippie Country Rock. Now, there's a big mouth full. But this album has really grown on me, and I still play it quite regularly. Sammy does not have the most memorable voice of all, but he does captivate. And the songs are all very well written, the kind of stuff that keeps hanging in your head. This album was released in 1973, though both Rate Your Music and Allmusic.com claim this to be released in 1975. I'd rather believe the back cover of my copy of the album (included here). I also included a rip of a 1988 MCA single, which had a re-recorded version of "Chevy Van". Get this if you like pretty songs. And "Chevy Van" is a pretty pretty song in my book. Early morning love...

Point Blank - Cold Warrior (1979)

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"Cold Warrior" is the Point Blank bootleg I've come across most often. Which does not mean it's the least of 'em circulating. As a matter of fact, what we have here is yet another fine example of how great a Southern Rock band Point Blank is. They're loud and passionate. This is a show of the band promoting their, in my opinion, finest album, "Airplay". It's an FM broadcast, quality is pretty good. Nuff said. Thunder & Lightning!

SevenMoore - 2003 - SevenMoore

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SevenMoore (or Seven Moore)was a spin-off of The Marshall Tucker Band. It featured MTB's Paul T. Riddle and Jerry Eubanks and this is the only album released (some live shows do exist). It's not quite The Marshall Tucker Band, though. Definitely Southern, but more polished and very melodic. Some excellent picking on this album! It's inoffensive, as in, your old lady would enjoy this as much as you do. But there's some great music to be found here all the same. Really, this is a great record. Including flute and all. But trust me, you won't be disappointed. For those who didn't get this the first time around, here's another chance..

Joe Sun - Out On The Road (1991)

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Yup, it's Outlaw Country time again. And thank you, Frank, for supplying us with yet another fine piece of music from Outlaw extraordinaire, Mr. Joe Sun. I guess there's not much new under the sun, but that won't stop me from enjoying Joe's music at all. Any Joe Sun is way above average, and this is more of the same (goodness). Again, if you like your Country with gravelly voice, the music not too slick and songs well written, this is right up your alley. So, here's Joe, hittin' that ol' highway...

Allgood - IV (1995)

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"IV" was the last recorded studio output by Athens, Georgia band Allgood. However, it never had an actual commercial release. Still, if you dug any previous Allgood recordings, this will surely not disappoint. No sirree! It's all slightly heavier and at times a little darker than their earlier albums. But great Southern Rock to my ears. Allgood remind me at times of Jupiter Coyote. Not too much emphasis on traditional Southern Rock trademarks like twin leads and dualing guitar solos, instead going for more compact Southern Rock songs. And really, you can hardly go wrong with any Allgood music. Face it...

Poker Flatts - Poker Flatts (1977)

♫

Poker Flatts was based out of the Macomb, Illinois area. This, their only, album is a fine example of well executed Country Rock played with just enough pizazz to grab and hold your attention. The band called it Progressive Country. Well, I guess. It's a real nice album and the Country is played with just the right amount of funky feel to it. Band members are: Bill Studzinski - guitars & vocals; Paul Reynolds - guitars, mandolin & vocals; T.K. Wayland - drums & vocals; Tom Durso - bass. And they had a little help from Ken Pitlik - fiddle & banjo and Karl Warma on harmonica. The record was released on the independent (their own) record label Stacked Deck. Again, this is a bit of a treat, certainly well worth grabbing. So good..

Don Bowman - The All New Don Bowman (1972)

♫

Don Bowman again, at his very zaniest. "The All New Don Bowman" is one of Don's funniest albums and it introduces the magnificent drunk, Farley McCluth. On "Hello D.J. Don throws a tantrum for not getting his record played on the radio, calling up the D.J. time and again and getting nastier along the way. There's a remake of his classic hit, "Chit Akins Make Me A Star" and it has song titles like "The Monkey Who Became President" and "Freddie Four Toes". Well, just list-in! List-in to this! Poetic justice?

Jimmy O'Neill - Popular Car (1984)

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Jimmy O'Neill was guitarist/vocalist with Mose Jones on "Get Right" and "Mose Knows". He did not participate in the line-up that recorded the third album, "Blackbird". Instead he went on to play with fiddler Vassar Clements. And in 1984 he released a '45 which is presented to you here. As noted, this is from 1984 and it just screams 80's! Still, it's two very nice songs with amusing lyrics. And a Mose Jones rarity for sure. Side one has the track "Popular Car" and the flip side contains the track "City Music". Both are very poppy and quite catchy. Unfortunately Jimmy passed away in September of 2001.


This may also be a good opportunity to point out to you all that Mose Jones has just released a live CD, which features a show from 1974. You can order that from CDBaby. From the press release:
"The songs chosen for this CD were narrowed down from over 2 and half hours of recorded music that night - all original songs were from Mose Jones' 2 albums, "Get Right" 1973 and "Mose Knows" 1974, except for the Mose Allison song "Going to the City", which was combined with the extended jam the band had been performing and having fun with for years...This CD is totally live - no overdubs or post-production enhancements of any kind were used. The original 1/4" tape was found to be in Jimmy O'Neill's possession after his passing in 2001. The tape was baked, then transferred to digital (protools), pre-mastered, then re-mastered by Rodney Mills Master House.

Bryan Cole and Steve McRay, the two surviving members of the original band, and with the appreciative help of friends all along the way, have spent time and money and an undoubtedly labor of love attitude, to release this CD project - and now it has come to fruition. This CD is presented to you, to our old fans and our new fans and listeners, out of respect for Mose Jones and it's legacy, and our love for our two original members and band mates – Randy Lewis and Jimmy O’Neill (RIP)…We sincerely hope you will listen, enjoy, and appreciate this CD and project of love –"
So, go out and buy that. And in the meantime, enjoy Jimmy's single.

Stillwater - Demos (80's)

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And here we have a curiosity for you fans of Stillwater. Thanks to Craig for this set of demos from, probably, somewhere in the 80's. To tell the truth, I have no information on these recordings whatsoever. They sure sound like they're from the 80's, though. I didn't have song titles either, so I took a wild guess. Bear in mind, this is really for fans only. There's lots of wow and flutter, which will not gain Stillwater any new fans. But these tracks can't be heard elsewhere and it's nice to fill in some gaps of the Stillwater history. 7 songs, nothing quite as spectacular as either of their first albums on the Capricorn label. But still a nice listen. If there's anyone out there who can shed some light on the origins of these recordings, please do. Are you ready!?

Wet Willie - Wet Willie (1971)

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This is Wet Willie's debut album from 1971. On this record the band was getting close to becoming that great R&B/Soul infused Southern Rock band, but the music slightly less Funky than their later outings. Some pretty good songs, though. And already you could hear that this band was a class apart. All played with great enthusiasm and verve. Excellent vocals by Jimmy Hall (as always) and splendid picking throughout. If you don't know Wet Willie, I suggest you do something about that right now. Have a good time!

Calibre 12 - A Bout Portant (1998)

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Calibre 12 is a Southern Rock band from France. Yeah, you read that right. Or can't that be so?! Well, there's an interesting discussion for you fans of Southern Rock. Can Southern sounding Rock, which is not actually from any of the Southern United States, be called Southern Rock? And if so, where do you draw the line? I have several examples posted on my blog. Was it OK for me to post Duke Jupiter's "Sweet Cheeks"? They were from New York, but the album was recorded at the Capricorn studios, produced by Chuck Leavell and features Southern Rock veterans like Randall Bramblett, Jai Johanny Johnson and Chuck Leavell guesting. Or what about George Hatcher. He may have been from North Carolina, but his first 4 studio album featured mostly British musicians. Moonshine were from The Netherlands, but their version of "In The Morning" was much appreciated by Mama's Pride's Pat Liston. I guess it depends what you're definition of Southern Rock is. When the first bands from the South emerged, that would later epitomize Southern Rock, the music wasn't called that just yet. They were referred to as Southern Rock because of their geographical origins. Those early years are really special. Because eventhough bands like the Allmans, Charlie Daniels, Wet Willie, Skynyrd and Grinderswitch would play such different styles, you could hear by the tone of their playing that they were from the South. The same tone that could also be heard on old Southern Soul classics, which is only logical, since they were played by white Southern musicians (Travis Wammack, Steve Cropper, Duane Allman) as well. It was only in the second half of the 70's that Southern Rock as a style became the big thing we think it is. When bands like The Outlaws, Molly Hatchet and Doc Holliday entered the scene, and it was quite massive for a moment. Then in the early 80's Southern Rock went almost extinct, some bands trying their hand at AOR and most failing miserably. In Europe Southern Rock was probably only just getting a following when it had all but disappeared. It remained quite popular in Germany and especially France. Which brings us back to Calibre 12. And as far as the music goes, that's solid Southern Rock in my book. This is their debut, and you can still tell they're fans first. The music is pretty much in the Molly Hatchet vein. Great slide guitar. But don't be expecting no Southern drawl here. Maybe a drawl Sudiste (pardon my French). But I reckon that's better than English with a French accent. It does not bother me at all, though I have no clue what they're singing about. You can find the lyrics on their homepage. I wonder what your opinion will be after hearing this. Is Southern Rock now a genre that could come from anywhere? Rock Sudiste!

Grinderswitch - Unfinished Business (2004)

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"Unfinished Business" was issued in 2004. But, as the title suggests, this was stuff that had been laying around for several years, it just never got to being released. The songs on this album were already written and recorded in 1977/1978, intended as a follow-up to the "Redwing" album. It's all good fun with lots of Soul and Blues added to their special brand of Southern Rock. And there be horns! Grinderswitch were one of the original Southern Rock bands from the early days. They never really resembled any other Southern Rock band. The music is a lot more homey than, say, The Allman brothers Band or Lynyrd Skynyrd. I guess Southern Rock started out a lot more versatile than it wound up being. This album features the song "Dr. Hector's Traveling Show", which was probably where Dru Lombar got the idea for Dr. Hector And The Groove Injectors. Great stuff for a swinging little party. That's what you get.

The Outlaws - My Father's Place '86 (1986)

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The Outlaws recorded live at My Father's Place in 1986 is a hot show alright. And a lot more interesting than most live shows I have seen circulating. This was the time when Henry Paul was back for the album "Soldiers Of Fortune", so this show has both the classic songs ("There Goes Another love Song", "Green Grass & High Tides", "Knoxville Girl" etc.) as well as the songs you never heard them play live again ("The Outlaw", "Cold Harbor", "One Last Ride" and a version of Henry's song "Feel The Heat"). But here it all works out very well. The band is playing as tight as ever, both Hughie and Henry are in excellent form vocally and the sound of this recording is splendid. And does anyone have any news on the current state of affairs concerning the release of "Once An Outlaw"? I'm not choosing sides for either Henry Paul or Chris Hicks, I think they're both great. And I'm only in it for the music. Henry Paul and company have recently released a CD under The Outlaws name called "Demos", which, I think, is pretty brilliant. You can listen to that while visiting The Outlaws website. As for now: Get this, you need it. You are the show!

Ian Moore - Modernday Folklore (1995)

♫

"Modernday Folklore" was Ian Moore's last album for the resurrected Capricorn label. It was also his last Southern Rock album. At least, that's from what I read, since I haven't actually heard anything from Ian's subsequent output. But I have listened to this album pretty often. And it still gets rotation from time to time. It's a bit of an odd record. I guess on this album he was already making the transition from Southern Blues Rock to the well crafted Pop(?) songs of his later work. But this is really good. As a matter of fact, this has his best song (imho), a tune called "Muddy Jesus". There are some songs which recall his Bluesier past, but the majority on this album is, I guess, Southern Rock with a twist. Sometimes reminiscent to Chris Whitley in atmosphere and a quite adventurous listening experience. All songs are very well written. It may not necessarily grab you by the throat at first listen, but give it a few spins and you will find the material definitely grows on you. And as always, great playing and more than pleasant vocals. No mindless Texas Boogie boredom here, just good stuff. Modernday folklore!

Lafauci - Lafauci (1978)

♫

Oh yes, this is some fine music alright. Thanks to my French connection for this gem. It's a very rare piece of Southern Rock regalia. Only 1000 copies were pressed. The band was led by Sal Lafauci (vocals, drums & organ) and they hailed from Louisiana. Other members were Chip Weil (bass), Steve Dodds (guitars) and Keith Guidroz (guitar). Guests were Billy Stroud (synthesizer)and Sonny Wall (piano, organ, synthesizer, etc).
The first songs kicks of impressively, a song called "Flowing River", which could fool you to believe you got your hands on a Progressive Rock album instead. It's a little bit of everything which makes this album so interesting. It's mostly and most definitely Southern, though. And they do rock out. Other highlights are "Ride Chester", "Lovin' You Is Right" and "Mary, Mary" (some guitar stuff very reminiscent to early Hatchet). Boy, oh boy, are you boys and girls gonna love this one. I'll bet. Great playing and great songs. Pretty great, right?! Help Yourself.

Eat A Peach - Turbulence & Thunder (1999)

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Eat A Peach was a Southern Rock band from...er...Chicago.. Yes, that's right. But don't let that hold you back checking this out. These guys pretty much hit the nail on the head with this, their debut album from 1999. Nothing fancy going on here, it's very much straight ahead Southern Rock for ya. But any Southern Rock fan should definitely give it a go. It's a bit on the heavy Blues Rock side of Southern. Plenty guitar, some tasty Hammond organ, gravelly vocals, some twin leads. Basically, it's got all you might look for in Southern Rock. It reminded me at times of Molly Hatchet playing The Allmans. This was requested, it's no longer for sale, here you have it. Hot Sauce!

Doc Holliday - Danger Zone (1986)

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"Danger Zone" was released in 1986 on the small Metal Masters label (in the UK anyway), after the Doc Holliday adventures on A&M records ended with the rather disappointing Techno Rock album "Modern Medicine". I always had a soft spot for this album. Sure, it did not have the sound of a big budget album, but the mood was set just right. Back on the Southern Rock trail alright. And that was something pretty rare in the mid 80's, believe you me! It had some of their finest songs, like "Redneck Rock & Roll Band", where Bruce Brookshire did his roll call of Southern Rock heroes (like Charlie Daniels did on "The South's Gonna Do it" and Skynyrd on "When You Got Good Friends"). And some cool heavy rockers like "Danger Zone" and "Thunder & Lightning/Into The Night". This is pretty much Southern Rock as it should be. Just listen. Are you Ready to Burn?!

Rusty Wier - Are We There Yet? (1997)

♫

"Are We There Yet?" is more classic Rusty Wier for you. Absolutely one of my all-time favorite Outlaws (along with Joe Sun) ever. Very tasty music, ideal for playing in the evening while mellowing down from rocking out all day long. Yeah right. Enjoy Rusty's distinctive voice, lovely melodies, great lyrics and fine picking. Quervo's Gold..

Black Creek Band - Live From Gainesville (1995)

♫

I had never heard of the Black Creek Band, but thanks to Cagey I now do. And I'm lovin' it! This is the kinda stuff that puts a smile on my face. No mindless Boogie here, nor faceless Hard Rock. This is very much in the vein of The Allman Brothers Band and Warren Haynes (circa his debut). not a bad song in sight. Lotsa geetarz, great improvisation and a guaranteed good time had by all. This is a live album with four bonus tracks in the form of a studio demo which was never released at all. The kind of treasure which makes running a blog like this so much worth spending my time on. I'm sure you will enjoy. So, thank you Cagey. Southride...

Blackfoot - Rick Medlocke & Blackfoot (1987)

♫ By the time this album was put out, it could hardly be called 'Blackfoot' anymore. Gone was the classic line-up with Charlie Hargrett, Greg T. Walker and Jakson Spires and gone was the haywire Southern Rock that graced classic albums like "Strikes", "Tomcattin'" and "Marauder". Enter the slick blandness that killed Southern Rock for good (or so they thought). So, you may wonder, should I dismiss this album right away? Well, that depends. It still has some good songs and it's all played by some of the finest pickers. It's just not very Southern anymore. On this release, Rickey had himself accompanied by Mother's Finest bassist Jerry "Wizzard" Seay, his brother Harold Seay on drums and keyboard player Doug Bare (all of which played on the Mother's Finest album "One Mother To Another". And they can play alright. They do a fine cover version of the Mother's Finest track "Rock 'n' Roll 2 Nite" (from the "Iron Age" record). And there's the somewhat odd choice of covering Dutch rock and roller Herman Brood's "Saturday Night". Ah, what the heck. Just give it a spin. Steady Rockin'.

Cate Brothers - Play By The Rules (2004)

♫

"Play By The Rules" was the last Cate Brothers studio album. Still playing their sweet blend of Funky Soul and Southern Rock, and every bit as good as the rest of their marvelous repertoire. This features a remake of the song "Yield Not To Temptation", which they previously recorded for my favorite album of theirs, "Cate Bros. Band" from 1977. And a hot version of The Band's song "The Shape I'm In", a band which they accompanied during live shows in the 80's. Alas, this jewel is no longer obtainable. But I hope there's a daring record label out there (Wounded Bird, you listening?!) brave enough to have a go at making this once again available for all you music lovers. Out on a limb!

Bent Creek Band - Treading High Water (1984)

♫

Thanks go out to Luc for this rip, he's been waiting for it. Bent Creek Band released this album in 1984 and it was recorded in North Carolina. On the internet I could not find anything about this Bent Creek Band, other than some sites having it for sale. The music is Southern Country Rock, well played and pleasing to the ear. Pickers on the album are: Morris Flynn - drums & percussion; Gary Hensley - bass & vocals; Scott Taylor - keyboards, harmonica & vocals and Edward Terry - guitars & vocals. Unfortunately the vinyl wasn't pristine, sometimes there's a little too much crackle and some skipping occurs. Besides that it sounds fine and it's sure to please any Southern Country Rock fan. Ramblin Country Fever.

Laidlaw - First Big Picnic (1999)

♫

Laidlaw were discovered by Nikki Sixx of Mötley Crue and they were from California. So, any sarcastic comment is expected. But don't let that hold you back from trying this out. These guys sound very Southern and they play some fine heavy rock. If you're into Blackfoot or Johnny's Skynyrd, you'll love this. Great songs, nothing sophisticated, all good fun. I love the vocals and playing. And besides this album, there's only one other release(?) and then: nothing. Short story, but there's not much more to add to this (unless you can think of something...). Get it if you like it loud. Southern Rock, that is. Burnin'!

Larry Jon Wilson dies at 69

Sad news. Larry Jon, may you rest in peace. You left quite a musical treasure. May your soul and your music live forever.

Southern Cross Band - Lady Killer & Outlaw (Josie Wales) (1982)

♫

Thanks to Jorge for this rare gem. It's a promo single from (New York?) Southern Rockers the Southern Cross Band. I tried to find information about this band on the internet, but found little more than the fact that both these songs had been released on sample albums which featured other bands as well ("The Apple WAPP FM" and "A Double Shot of Local Talent"). No doubt some people will ignore this, simply for being from up North, but if you can look past geographical boundaries, you just might find you get what you need. "Lady Killer" is the uptempo Southern Rocker, while "Outlaw (Josie Wales)" is a terrific classic Southern Rock song. Alas it suffers a few skips and some crackle, but all in all this is splendid stuff.

Joe Sun - Sundries (2006)

♫

"Sundries" is a collection of unreleased Joe Sun recordings. Thanks to Frank for providing this beaut. Here's the info from the text file: "Tracks 1-4 recorded at the time of the Interchord release. Cuts 5 & 13 recorded by Joe in the mid 80's after he wrote the songs with his lead guitarist of that time Max T Barnes.Track 6 written and recorded in the late 80's. Cuts 7 & 8 were recorded late 80's at a "a" list Nashvuille session. Track 9 witten with Swede Red Jenkins and recorded in 2002. Cuts 10-12 recorded just after the Hank Bogart album. No info' ref track 13. 14 written about his boyhood in Rochester Minnesota and recorded prior to 2006 tour. Album compiled to sell at 2006 UK tour."
Great to get a chance to hear this, otherwise unavailable, music. Like I said before, any Joe Sun is good Joe Sun. And this just proves my point. I ain't crazy!

The Charlie Daniels Band - Party In The Park (1979)

♫

Recorded in Elmont, New York in 1979, Party In The Park was broadcast on radio, and here you have it. A short set, 5 songs, this is mostly just Charlie Daniels and guitar. Decent recording, sounding sweet. There's a new song called "The Daybreakers", which I hadn't heard before. And I really love the song "Reflections" from the "Million Mile Reflections", also featured here. I have to admit, it still sent shivers down my spine hearing Charlie sing about Ronnie Van Zant. The last two songs feature the full CDB, Southside Johnny and David Bromberg. Check out this Long Haired Country Boy.

Don Bowman - Whispering Country (1970)

♫

On "Whispering Country" funny man Don Bowman has taken up the task of butchering 'Whispering' Bill Anderson's repertoire. And trust Don to do a thorough job at that. Even in an effort to keep things 'clean', there's enough here to raise an eyebrow or two. Guess I'll go somewhere and find myself a sheep...

Stillwater - Runnin' Free (1998)

♫

After having been off the radar for close to 20 years, Stillwater surprisingly reemerged with this great come-back album in 1998. "Runnin' Free" sounds like they never left and no time had past. Well, almost. The album kicks off with "The Big Payback", an original Causey/Walker song, which had previously been recorded by Molly Hatchet for their "Lightning Strikes Twice" album. And it's that distinctive Stillwater sound alright. What we get from there is a slightly updated version of the Stillwater we know from their two Capricorn releases from the 70's. And it's really cool to hear old Southern Rockers delivering the goods after so many years of absence. Though it doesn't grab me as much as the old albums did, I thoroughly enjoy listening to this album. I guess the main difference is that it all sounds somewhat poppier and there seems to be less room for extended soloing/improvisation. But that's the curse of the 80's music, which left its mark on most Southern Rock released after the 70's. It still rocks. And it still has enough Soul to have you believing this is the real deal. Enough diversity here to make repeat playing worth your while. Ready to rock?

Chris Anderson - Old Friend (1995)

♫

Chris Anderson is a name that could ring a bell with fans of The Outlaws. Chris played with The Outlaws from 1986–1989 and has rejoined in 2005. In between he also played with Blackhawk. This is quite different fare, though. Recorded in 1995, this was pretty much the thing to do at the time: record an album full of uneventful, contemporary Blues Rock. Much in the vein of the Gary Moore blues albums, this is slick, rather bland Blues Rock. Les Dudek made an album like that too, very forgettable. But there are some gems hidden here, which will make you pleased having taken the trouble getting it. And if you like (Southern) Blues Rock, this could knock you off your feet. I guess. My favorite track is "Jake's Song", which makes it pretty clear we're on Southern Rock turf here. And I basically enjoy the second half of this album very much. Thanks to Templar33 for bringing this to my (and your) attention. I lost some e-mails, so I'm not sure that's what he calls himself. Anyway, good stuff. Trust me.

Richard Torrance - Bit Torrance (2010)

♫

I'm a fan of Richard Torrance and I used to have some of his album posted here as vinyl rips. Then Steve sent me the "Living Today" rip and pointed out the fact that these days Richard was selling all of his albums on his homepage. Thank you Steve and you are right. Hence I pulled them all, instead offering you a sampler which features songs from all of his 70's releases. But wait, check out this video first:



Yes, Richard is still making music and performing. Again, check out his website. The music is not strictly Southern Rock (and he's really from North Dakota), but it has all the ingredients to cook up a nice Funky Southern-tinged musical stew. Dig in, I say. Tracks on this sampler come from the albums:
"Eureka" (1974)
"Belle Of The Ball" (1975)
"Living Today" (1976, European release only?)
"Bareback" (1977)
"Live At The Boarding House" (1977)
"Double Take" (1978)
"Anything's Possible" (1978).
Since then he's released a couple more CD's, all available at www.richardtorrance.com.
Richard's a great singer and musician and he sure deserves your attention. So, why don't you try a bit Torrance?!