Friday, May 24, 2013

Kind Tune of the Moment

Don't Want You No More

This bluesy instrumental was made famous by the Allman Brothers Band, but turns out was originally written and recorded by the Spencer Davis Group. The Spencer Davis Group of course featured Steve Winwood on organ and vocals. Their version of the tune has more of a Booker T & the MG's Green Onions feel to it. It also includes some vocals. But as the Allmans did with Donovan's tune First There is a Mountain, transforming it into the instrumental monster Mountain Jam, they would strip this song of its lyrics as well. Naturally, they also added their Southern blues stylings, turning up the intensity and drama. 

Lots of great versions over the years. First up is Spencer Davis Group's original:


Next, the first know Allman Brother's performance of the tune, recorded live before Greg had joined the band. You can see that even at their inception, Duane knew what he was going for and had the classic Allman's sound in place.


Here it is as the first track on their debut album, paired with It's Not My Cross to Bear, as it would be from then on:


A rocking live version from the beginning of the 2nd peak of the Allman's career, featuring an outstanding lineup with Warren Haynes on guitar and Allan Woody on bass:


And this is likely the most recent version of the tune. Another excellent Allman's lineup, with virtuosos Derek Trucks on guitar and Oteil Burbridge on bass.



Still kicking ass after all these years, and true to their original vision.




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