An Allmans classic from the later line-up
In my humble opinion, there are very few things better in this world than kicking back and listening to the Allman Brothers Band. Screaming guitars, howling vocals, neat grooves and improvised stylings. What more could you want from a southern rock band?
‘Shades of Two Worlds’ really has been the making - or has that been re-making? - of a great band torn apart by death, litigation, and time. This is the second album from the Allmans’ later line-up, with inspired guitar playing from original band member Dickey Betts, and relative newcomer Warren Haynes. Any doubts that Haynes would either replace or fail to live up to Duane Allman’s considerable legend are immediately quashed with this record. Haynes’ playing is certainly inspired by Duane, but nowhere near being a clone. It feels naturally like an Allman Brothers record without slipping into pastiche at any point.
This sounds far fresher than the older recordings. And it definitely benefits from being recorded in a bit of a ‘sweet spot’ between numerous line-up changes and breakdowns. The relationship between the two guitarists in particular is never more perfect than when trading licks on standout tracks ‘Bad Rain’ and ‘Desert Blues’. It’s not a perfect record by any means. It wouldn’t be interesting if it was. The old southern blues clichés are churned out again occasionally in the lyrics, but it doesn’t stop more heartbreakers like ‘Get On With Your Life’ from being any less powerful. If you’re not already a fan of this kind of rock, then there’s nothing here that’s likely to change your mind. But if you are, you’re in luck. It’s also a nice touch to hear a cover of Robert Johnson’s ‘Come On In My Kitchen’, especially one done so thoughtfully.
The Allmans were very lucky to have a second shot as a band, let alone such a successful one. If this record was all that was destined to come out of it, then I call that a success. I’d recommend this for both existing Allmans fans and anyone looking to get into them, it’s as good as any record further back in their catalogue.