The Allman Brothers

Famous or Infamous (depending on your view point) for their long jams on stage that could last for several days, The Allman brothers are very much a take em or leave em type of band. They have a very distinctive sound, mainly cause their heavy use of slide guitar and having about 100 members of the band, well that's an obvious exaggeration but they do have 2 drummers which is either OTT or cool... if you like drums, which I do!

Formed by brothers Gregg and Duane Allman in 1969, they are regarded as the 'architects of Southern Rock' and have influenced dozens of groups since their first album was released in 69. They are still going to this day, touring and releasing new material although to be honest I've think they've had their day and they should probably quit :-)

Anyway, sadly Duane Allman died in 1971 about two or three albums in to their career, and is still widely regarded as the greatest Slide guitarist who ever breathed. Its also worth listening to the Derek and The Domino's album, Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs as not only is his Slide guitar work brilliant you have the added bonus of listening to Eric Clapton, which is always nice!

Today, I have saved you from a 30 minute blues odyssey, and have included a 3 minute 'radio friendly' track from my 2nd favourite album of theirs (the 1st being Brothers and Sisters, which includes the excellent 'Southbound' and the classic 'Jessica'). This is 'Don't Keep Me Wondering' from Idlewild South

Their Drummers names were Butch Trucks and Jai Johanny Johanson. FACT!!!!