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Words by: Melissa L. Burke :: Images by Tobin Voggesser
Allman Brothers Band :: 09.01.06 :: Red Rocks Amphitheatre :: Morrison, CO
Allman Brothers :: 09.01 :: Red Rocks |
Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Morrison, Colorado has always evoked magical, musical experiences for both the fan and the world-class musicians that play there, and September 1st, 2006 was no exception. In 48-degree driving or sometimes-misting rain, following a rousting set by hometown heroes Yonder Mountain String Band, the Allman Brothers Band took the stage after many a preparation by stage crew to keep equipment, Gregg Allman, his Hammond B, and assorted keyboards dry in his own personal tent. Portable heaters in place, amps and monitors partially covered, the band quickly took their places. With the sun already set and apologies extended, the pioneers of a self-created genre whose music has spanned several decades and multiple lineup changes began their show.
Oteil - Allman Brothers :: 09.01 |
The wind and rain did not threaten the veteran musicians, who broke cleanly into "Don't Want You No More" > "It's Not My Cross to Bear" to begin their 16-song set. The ride began with the Brothers' signature southern-blues, emotion-drenched guitars. For even the most seasoned concert-goers, this show will remain epically etched in the minds and souls of all who experienced it. The combination of the wild Colorado weather, the amazing presence of living legend Gregg Allman, and the energy and precision of the music played was almost dream-like. Seeing this particular performance in this atmosphere, which did not threaten the abilities of the band or audience to remain transfixed, was powerful. The 35-year-plus legacy of the Allman Brothers reminds us that there are different levels of bands and performances in the music we see, and these guys are true rock & roll royalty. The cohesiveness and quality of the playing, regardless of the lineup is unequaled in these experienced pros. Allman's voice was better and more commanding than it has been the last several times the Brothers have graced the Red Rocks stage; he was at the very top of his game here. Allman's energy and interaction with the fans provided them with the connection they need to keep dancing and anticipating each note.
Derek & Butch Trucks - Allman Brothers :: 09.01 |
A great deal of the spirit for this show was found in the cover tunes. Bass player Oteil Burbridge belted out the solid Derek and the Dominos tune "Anyday," with old school Clapton flavorings from the boys on guitar. Warren Haynes asked "How you doin' Red Rocks? You doin' alright?" as he broke into a rousing, bluesy rendition of Willie Dixon's "That Same Thing," featuring Derek Trucks' ripping guitar licks and Haynes right behind him with killer leads. In addition, some special guests kept everybody on their toes. Haynes sang all verses of The Band's tune "The Weight," with guests Danny Louis on keys and Andy Hess on bass. Gregg Allman brought his son Devon Allman (whose band Honeytribe played in Golden, CO that evening) onto the stage to sing an impressively moving and soulful "Midnight Rider." Devon Allman was notably carrying a copy-cat of Haynes' Gibson Les Paul sunburst guitar, on which he played rhythm. It was a moment of awe to hear the father and son sing the classic song together, distinguishing each as a great singer individually, but both pure, 100-percent Allman.
Allman Brothers :: 09.01 |
This was a classic Allman show that brought up many '70s-era classic tunes to which the oldest and newest fan could relate. The band did not play any of their more recent hits or any newer material here. During the show, fans remembered the different guitar players that have been a part of the band's rich history. The show seemed to call to former band mates Duane Allman and Dickey Betts at times, but the amazing guitar soloing of Derek Trucks was no less than mind-blowing. A pure genius virtuoso, the often-reserved stage presence of Trucks was overshadowed by the superb slide guitar and right-hand magic that only he fully understands. This was an exceptional show for Trucks, showcasing his improved ability and technical skills that are straight from a raw talent and simply cannot be acquired. Haynes' voice was hauntingly clear as he nailed every note while pumping out astonishing guitar, occasionally warming his hand on the portable heaters.
Gregg Allman :: 09.01 |
"Hot 'Lanta" and "In Memory Of Elizabeth Reed" were instrumental gold (found on the double live album The Allman Brothers at the Fillmore), with Trucks, Burbridge, and the percussion section making history. "Statesboro Blues" was another clear highlight, showing-off that hallmark Allman Brothers' sound. By the time the end of the show rolled around, folks were drenched and darn-near frozen, but the encore, "One Way Out," warmed the audience for their final descent from the majestic venue, with the glorious red rocks gleaming in the wet, black night. As a fan of over 40 Allman Brothers shows and two decades, I will have to record this in my memory as one of the top shows of all times. I saw the huge tour bus roll past me and out of the upper lot as I made my way down to the car, minutes after the band finished their encore. I smiled and thought, "There they go, on the road again, to another adventure in music. We will see them again..." It just goes to prove that there is only one Allman Brothers Band. And like another band from a similar era, they are not the best at what they do; they are the only ones who do what they do.
Setlist
Don't Want You No More, It's Not My Cross To Bear, Southbound, Revival, Who's Been Talking, Trouble No More, Midnight Rider*, AnyDay#, Same Thing, Hot 'Lanta, I Walk On Gilded Splinters, Statesboro Blues, Dreams, The Weight^, In Memory Of Elizabeth Reed
Encore: One Way Out
*w/ Devon Allman - Guitar
#w/ - James van der Bogert - Drums
^w/ Danny Louis - Keys, Andy Hess - Bass
JamBase | Red Rocks
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