The Allman Brothers Band - One Way Out - Live at the Beacon Theatre

With the passing of Jerry Garcia, the Grateful Dead discontinued their touring schedule under that name. Later, the remaining band members reemerged as The Dead. The Allman Brothers Band, however, continues to tour under their original name despite the loss of two forefathers, Duane Allman to a motorcycle accident and Dickey Betts to internal band politics. With three original band mates (Gregg Allman, Butch Trucks and Jaimoe), the revised Allman Brothers Band have started a tradition of playing a long string of consecutive shows at the Beacon Theatre in New York called “Peakin’ at the Beacon.” When The Allman Brothers Band was “Peakin’” in the late 60’s, Duane Allman handled slide guitar responsibilities, while Dickey Betts played standard lead guitar. It was a nice one-two punch. Now those duties are shared by Derek Trucks and Warren Haynes respectively. One Way Out vibrantly pronounces that the spirit of Duane and his founding principles have not yet withered. The precise, forceful and inspired guitar leads by Warren and Derek hallmark this live album. Yes, Gregg Allman still possesses a soulful bluesy voice that is rare for a white singer. And yes, Butch Trucks, Jaimoe and Marc Quinones weave together a percussion unit that is both driving and patient. But, it is Warren Haynes and Derek Trucks, two-unoriginal members of the band, who are responsible for keeping the Allman Brothers’ legacy alive. Most notably, “Desdemona”, “Instrumental Illness”, “Dreams” and “Whipping Post” accentuate the ferocious chop exchange between the two axe-slingers. While a few standards such as “Statesboro Blues”, “Midnight Rider” and “Wasted Words” contribute nostalgia to the two-disc set, there are a dozen tracks not found on any other live CD, and for that reason alone One Way Out is not just another live CD from a band that makes more money on the road than in the studio. One Way Out is a wake-up call for all old-hippies, blues aficionados and jam band critics who think the Allman Brothers Band has run its course. Warren Haynes and Derek Trucks have resurrected the Dickey Betts and Duane Allman live electricity of the late 60’s. I’m sure Duane Allman and Berry Oakley are smiling from up above. [www.allmanbrothersband.com]