THE GREGG ALLMAN Laid Back 180G LP (Newly Remastered)

Gregg Allman recorded his first solo album, “Laid Back,” in 1972 while The Allman Brothers Band was wrapping up Brothers and Sisters. Both LPs were produced with a meticulous, welcoming touch by Johnny Sandlin at Capricorn Studios in Macon, Georgia, and both introduced the stellar piano playing of 20 year-old ace, Chuck Leavell.The sudden death of trailblazing guitarist Duane Allman the year prior prompted younger brother Gregg to immerse himself in song. Almost five decades later, “Laid Back” endures as a pinnacle of charming, sturdy, and purely Southern rhythm and blues. It differs completely, by design, from the intense blues, rock and jazz blend for which the Allman Brothers had been known.Each song — a mix of Gregg Allman originals and key adaptations — makes a distinctive impact by way of Allman’s smoky, melodious brogue, and by the superior musicians on hand. The songs quelled Allman’s pain, and express it eloquently for his audience.The album begins with “Midnight Rider,” one o