Hittin' The Note

2006 was another exceptional year for the Allman Brothers Band, and the proof was captured on disc! Gregg Allman was in great voice all summer, and he gave some of his best vocal performances in years. Check out “Stormy Monday” from the 7/2 Solomon’s, MD show, or the heartbreaking version of “Old Before My Time” from Atlanta on 8/20, for proof that Gregg is still on top of his game. The rhythm section of Butch Trucks, Jaimoe, Marc Quinones and Oteil Burbridge was tighter and more solid than ever, and both Warren Haynes and Derek Trucks continued to show that they are two of the best guitarists around.

Several new songs made it into the rotation this year, including a soulful version of the Band’s “The Weight” which was modeled after the Aretha Franklin arrangement that Duane Allman originally played on. Warren’s gritty vocals and Derek’s slide were both beautifully showcased on this tune. The Howlin’ Wolf classic “Smokestack Lightning” was another new song that allowed Warren to showcase his bluesy side, while giving Derek a chance to shine on slide. Legendary jazz drummer, Roy Haynes blew everybody away at the Beacon with his guest appearance on "Afro Blue," and at Wantagh, NY (Jone Beach) he did it again, propelling a swinging performance with his driving beats!

Another notable addition included “Anyday,” a Derek and the Dominos song that Derek was familiar with from his “other gigs” playing with the Derek Trucks Band and Eric Clapton. This one gave Oteil a chance to sing, and featured some of the most passionate solos of the summer. When Rock 'N Roll Hall of Famer Tom Petty joined the ABB for Bob Dylan’s “Highway 61 Revisited” at the 8/18 Camden, NJ show it was one of the best guest/band collaborations of the last few tours.

Of course, part of the beauty of the Allman Brothers is they never play a song the same way twice, and 2006 saw lots of powerful versions of their timeless jams. “Revival” was extended to 10 minutes or more and featured some of the most inspired jamming of the summer. “Whipping Post” and “You Don’t Love Me” got the extended At Fillmore East treatment on several occasions, and it was also a great year for “Mountain Jam.” Every version from 2006 has something special, with some of Derek’s most magical playing coming on this tune.

Click on each night below to see the setlist, show description and to order.