The Allman Brothers Band - Brothers And Sisters (1973)

The Allman Brothers Band are an American band formed in the late 60s, considered highly influential in the genre of southern rock, and also known for their musical improvisation in concert.

With the death of Duane Allman in 1971, The Allman Brothers band lost not only one of their guitarists (and arguably one of the best blues-rock guitarists of the era), but also one half of the brothers themselves, leaving just Gregg there to carry the family name. However they took the decision to move on. Rather than replace him, Dickey Betts remained as their sole guitarist, but they did bring in a new member in pianist Chuck Leavell, which changed the sound of the band somewhat.
Tragically, they lost another founding member as they were working on their fifth album. Bassist Berry Oakley died in November 1972, also in a motorcycle accident (eerily just three blocks from where Allman had died in the same manner the year before). The bass guitar position was filled by Lamar Williams, who joined in time for them to finish the album. Brothers And Sisters came out in 1973.
It turned out to be a landmark album for the band. Their sound had changed not only due to Leavell's presence, but due to Dickey Betts' rise as a singer and songwriter. Under his leadership, the band moved towards more of a country-flavoured sound. Betts' "Ramblin' Man" (which he sung) was one of the standout tracks, and endures to this day as a country-rock classic. The other important song on the album was the exuberant instrumental "Jessica" (also written by Betts). The album was a surprising success, and "Ramblin' Man" became a #2 hit single. Clearly the Allman Brothers Band were not going to allow tragedy get in their way, and though they had changed as a group, they were becoming more successful than ever.

Eat A Peach (1972) <|> Win, Lose Or Draw (1975)
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