Monday, March 28, 2011

Dylan Cover #8 Allman Brothers Band "Blind Willie McTell"

In this ongoing Monday Series we will be exploring various artists versions of Bob Dylan song's. Today's tune comes from The Allman Brothers Band and is a live cover of "Blind Willie McTell"
Thoughts on Dylan's Original: Ahh the forgotten masterpieceThis is the song that confirms that Dylans outtakes are better then most artists best efforts.  Left off of Infidels and to this day only Dylan himself knows why, it was discovered by most via the amazing Bootleg Series 1-3.  There are few better then this haunting jaunt through East Texas, and including it on the 83 record would have solidified a mixed release.  The lyrics seem to burn into your ears as the playing is up to the task as well.  Gorgeous all over.

Cover:


Thoughts on Cover Artist: The Allman's are an American institution, and since they just wrapped up their annual  Peakin' at The Beacon run I thought I would use the Monday space for their cover of "Blind Willie McTell".  I have seen the Allmans a few times and while they are enjoyable today seeing them back with their original lineup would have been heaven.  I love Warren Haynes and Derek Trucks, but having a chance to see Duane play some slide would have been magic.  They've had their ups and downs, currently enjoying an upswing so lets hope they keep riding high after this Beacon run. 

Thoughts on Cover:  While maybe not the first group that pops to mind when thinking about Dylan covers this match strikes a perfect note.  The Brothers live in the blues drenched world of rock and roll and BWMcT is just their style, backwoods blues.  While Gregg does a decent job it is really Warren who nails the vocals as he often does with cover tunes.  Getting the ache and twist out of every note he sings grandly as Derek Trucks adds his slide coloring over bongos.  While this recording isn't perfect or professional it allows to see the cover in its best state, live.  A solid version of an amazing song.

Grade: B 


Wilson's Take:

1 comment:

  1. Hindsight is 20/20, Gregg was very sick during this performance. Not long after this he received his liver transplant. All things considered, he did a pretty darn good job if you ask me.

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