In a way, Playin' Up a Storm doesn't really highlight Gregg Allman's strengths, since it's a little smoother and soul-inflected than his work with the Allman Brothers. Then again, that's not a problem; after all, why make a solo album that's exactly like your full-time gig? Consequently, Playin' Up a Storm is a well-made, expertly performed set of blues-rock, soul-pop, and straight-ahead rock 'n' roll.
The thing that makes it one of Allman's best solo efforts is the terrific performances. Not only is he in fine voice, delivering each song with conviction, but his supporting band -- featuring such luminaries as Dr. John and Bill Payne -- is sterling. All the grooves are in the pocket, the sound is enticing, and the overall effect is just right. Not an earth-shattering record, but it will please true Allman fans.
by Stephen Thomas Erlewine
1. Come And Go Blues (Gregg Allman) - 4:48
2. Let This Be A Lesson To Ya' (Gregg Allman, Malcolm Rebennack) - 3:42
3. Brightest Smile In Town (Ray Charles, Barry De Vorzon, Bob Sherman) - 3:06
4. Bring It On Back (Gregg Allman) - 4:49
5. Cryin' Shame (Beckmeier, Steve Berlin) - 3:44
6. Sweet Feelin' (Clarence Carter, Daniel, Hall, Candi Staton) - 3:37
7. It Ain't No Use (Bernie Baum, Bill Giant, Florence Kaye) - 3:54
8. Matthew's Arrival (Neil Larsen) - 3:50
9. One More Try (Gregg Allman) - 3:53
The Gregg Allman Band
*Gregg Allman - Vocals, Organ, Piano, Acoustic Guitar
*Willie Weeks - Bass, Fender Rhodes
*Steve Beckmeier - Guitar
*Ricky Hirsch - Guitar, Slide Guitar
*John Leslie Hug - Guitar
*Neil Larsen - Synthesizer, Piano, Keyboards, Fender Rhodes, Horn Arrangements
*Bill Stewart - Drums
Guest Musicians
*Fred Beckmeier - Bass
*Red Callender- Bass
*Dr. John - Keyboards
*Victor Feldman - Percussion
*Venetta Fields - Background Vocals
*Clydie King - Background Vocals
*Milt Holland - Percussion
*David Luell - Horn, Saxophone
*Steve Madaio - Horn
*Pat Rizzo - Horn
*Sherlie Matthews - Background Vocals
*Bill Payne - Synthesizer, Keyboards
with Allman Brothers
1968-89 Dreams (4 disc box set)
1971 S.U.N.Y. at Stonybrook NY
1973 Brothers And Sisters (2013 Japan SHM super deluxe four disc set edition)
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