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As trends fade and fads pass, so, too, does time. It’s true many things are gained from time, but many things get lost as well--none perhaps more significant than the art of music. The diluted and homogenized music of today is a direct result of the passing of time. The sound, feel and effect on the listener and its ability to move or transport, decline with each new chart topper. The emphasis on youth and marketability has compromised the very essence of the art form. The integrity and soul once generated by architects of R&B (like Willy Dixon or Muddy Waters) and the legendary bands that resulted from it, (i.e., Led Zeppelin, Free, and Cream), has been systematically ostracized and labeled irrelevant.
And so…with each passing decade the true music lover impatiently waits in frustration—ever searching and scanning the horizon for substance. In the seemingly hopeless, fruitless venture, a rare ember burns and from the dead R&R ashes rises Blackberry Smoke’s—A LITTLE PIECE OF DIXIE.
If you remember where you were when you first heard about Duanne Allman’s passing or the plane crash that silenced southern rocker Ronnie Van Zant, you are as overdue as this reviewer for a Rock & Roll revival.
With tracks like “Bottom Of This” or “Freedom Song,” let the sermon begin. It’s all here! Inspired by the likes of Zeppelin, The Faces, Lynyrd Skynyrd and the Allman Brothers, their look and sound is vintage yet fresh…and RELEVENT. (Can I get an “AMEN, BROTHER!”) Track 6 (“Who Invented The Wheel”) is my pick favorite followed closely by “Restless” and “Up In Smoke.” I’m stoked to see these guys live. If you, like me, have ever searched in vain for a decent radio station while driving only to wish you had a crow bar to pry it from the dash, this CD is for you! R&R still beats in the hearts of Blackberrry Smoke!
-- CLEVELAND
Tags: bamajam records, Blackberrry Smoke
I have seen them live 3 times…heading to Fernandina Beach tomorrow to see them again. If you ever wanna see a great concert go see BBS live. These guys are going places. We have had the chance to meet them all. Really humble and nice and personable guys. Long live BBS!!!!
Blackberry Smoke will be in Nashville May 13 at Mercy Lounge. 7pm doors open. We invite you all out to the show. For all tour dates and information go to http://www.blackberrysmoke.com
I couldn’t agree more, long time coming. I even agree with your favorites. I would add that the intertwining rhythm guitars on “Shake Your Magnolia” are a bit reminiscent of the Rolling Stones and will grow on you. Also, the harmonies on “Prayer for the Little Man” stand out.
I have seen them live several times now and they are the real deal. They pull every tune off exactly like the CD, which may or may not your thing. I suppose I would prefer a little more jamming/deviation at times, but it let’s you know they meant it the way they wrote it.
Great guys too! Very accessible and friendly. If you haven’t seen them live yet, then just wait. You’ll have some new favorites. They have enough new ones for a new CD already, and the tunes are only getting better
efbman