Beginnings [Remastered]

For once, a record label actually gives us more bang for the buck, combining two indisputable classics--1969's self-titled debut and the 1970 follow-up Idlewild South--onto one glorious CD. Five urgent notes kick off Spencer Davis's "Don't Want You No More," and by the time that searing instrumental morphs into Gregg Allman's superb slow blues "It's Not My Cross to Bear," it's clear these Georgians mean business. Everyone talks of the Muddy Waters and Willie Dixon covers, the furious twin leads of Duane and Dickey Betts, Gregg's soulful voice and formidable organ, the percussion attack of Jaimoe and Butch Trucks, but what about the songwriting skills? Just start with "Cross to Bear," "Whipping Post," "Dreams," "Revival," "Elizabeth Reed"--are you kidding? These two records blend gritty blues, Southern soul, and psychedelic rock into an exciting creation, and they serve notice: the Allmans will contend for the title of best American rock & roll band. --Marc Greilsamer