The Allman Brothers Band: 2009-03-24 Live at Beacon Theatre, New York, NY, March 24, 2009

Another great night in a great run! This show is full of highlights, including a spectacular version of "Rocking Horse" that included "Little Martha" and "Blue Sky" jams. What other show features both Thom Doucette AND John Popper on harmonica? Or blues legend "Steady Rollin'" Bob Margolin AND slide guitar master Sonny Landreth? Not to mention Billy Gibbons of ZZ Top. This show is almost an embarrassment of riches!

"Going Down Slow" was a debut at this show, and this version with Margolin and Doucette is a perfect tribute to one of the best moments on the Duane Allman Anthology. "Dreams" is no slouch either, full of Landreth's distinctive slide licks. The "Southbound" that closes the first set with Popper and Landreth is worthy of a second set closer, it packs so much energy!

The second set started off with the band wearing fake beards in tribute to Billy Gibbons, who joined the band for fierce, bluesy versions of "Jesus Just Left Chicago," "Stormy Monday" and "Statesboro Blues." John Popper was back on stage for a powerful "The Same Thing," which also featured a mighty bass solo from Oteil.

Even with all the guests, as they have so many times through this run, the ABB stole the show. This version of "Mountain Jam," complete with a full version of the blues classic "Smokestack Lightning" in the middle, may be the best jam of the entire Beacon run. Derek really soars on the second half of the song with some of his finest playing.

 

 

The Allman Brothers Band:

Gregg Allman - keys, vocals

Butch Trucks - drums

Jaimoe - drums

Oteil Burbridge - bass

Marc Quinones - percussion

Derek Trucks - guitar

Warren Haynes - guitar, vocals