After a 1989 reunion tour that unleashed a new Allman Brothers Band, everyone was so excited to hear what an album with that line-up of players and writers could do. Tom Dowd was brought in to produce– which was huge for the band– and the planets seemed to align for one strong ABB record.
Could they do it?
The album opened with the blistering guitars of Dickey Betts and Warren Haynes shredding the open of “Good Clean Fun”. By the solos, it was VERY clear: The Brothers were back! Warren, Allen Woody, and Johnny Neel were the new blood. The songs are solid, ranging from the shuffle blues we all know and love the ABB for to some cut-time, swamp-feel grooves– and Dickey and Warren straight rockin’ your face off with “Shine It On”. Dickey’s playing and Gregg’s vocals stand out on the Robert Johnson song, “Come On Into My Kitchen”, and Tom Dowd was amazing, simply a joy to witness.
During a much-needed break in recording, one song emerged that was not part of the rehearsal songs.
Red Dog Campbell called me and said, “Phillie, wait ’til you hear this song Brother Dickey brought in here! It’s the best f’n song on the record! It’s called ‘Seven Turns’!” Then he said, “The fans are gonna love what Gregg and Dickey do on the end of this thing!
Gregg’s voice was in great shape, and I loved Dickey’s “Big Picture” image of “Seven Turns”. Just remember the lyrics to the chorus when you think of the Allman Brothers Band…
“Somebody’s callin’ your name, somebody’s waitin’ for you… Love is all that remains the same, that’s what it’s all coming to…”