“The power of music just kinda kills all those ills; it cures everything and you’ve got more energy just from the music. And, I’ve never seen it fail. It’s good for ya; real good for ya.” -Levon Helm
Very sad news this afternoon. The web is flooded with tributes and remembrances. He was absolutely one of the best rock n’ roll drummers of all time, the true leader of what George Harrison called “the greatest band in the history of the universe”. His renegade voice was one of the most distinctive and uniquely American there ever was–part juke joint, part gospel, completely down-home, honest and pure, soulful. It was so full of pride and resilience that it made everybody in the room rise up and believe…believe that we are in fact all in this thing together.
He was a natural. He leaves a legacy that bridges the old ways of our past with all that comes after. We are here in Little Rock for the second show of a two week run through the Midwest and in a small self-serving way I can say that I’m honored to be in his home state today. There will never be another like Levon Helm.
It was quite an honor this past weekend for TBOH to be featured on the nationally-syndicated radio program, The Grateful Dead hour, hosted by David Gans. On the second part of the program he played a great China Cat Sunflower->I Know You Rider from 1973 and then went right into Mr. Charlie and Brokedown Palace off our bonus EP from the Double Down shows in Denver last October. Pretty cool.
Here are some records that I’ve been enjoying immensely. Hope you can find the time to check them out for yourself.
Chuck Leavell, Back To The Woods. Chuck is THE MAN. This is his new record, which is a tribute to early blues pianists like LeRoy Carr and Little Brother Montgomery
Jack McDuff, Who Knows What Tomorrows Gonna Bring? Early 70’s release, a little more experimental sonically. Splendid piano contribution from the great Paul Griffin.
King Curtis, Instant Groove. One of the heaviest soul men of all time. This record features righteous guitar solos by Duane Allman on four tracks.
Blitzen Trapper, American Goldwing. Might be my favorite record of 2012 thus far.
Stephen Stills, Stephen Stills. Love The One You’re With…what an amazing tune. Side one ends with back to back tracks that feature lead guitar by Jimi Hendrix and Eric Clapton.
The Sensational Nightengales, My Sisters And Brothers. 1974 Release from the wonderful gospel group. Ramshackle guitar, simple drum and bass parts, beautiful singing. The title track is the one that became the anthem of the JGB.
Be well and happy.
TN