Written by Alex Maluchnik
Photo by Adam Berta
Columbus took the backseat of a Greyhound bus down South June 21st with the Allman Betts Band. The Allman Brothers offspring did not disappoint with their inspired Friday night set backed by their top-tier ensemble with resumes featuring top acts including the likes of Sheryl Crow, the Wu-Tang Clan, Gov’t Mule, the Dixie Chicks, and Santana to name a few. The powerful fifteen song set included many heartfelt originals and Allman Brothers classics. In addition to the classics, an awe inspiring “Purple Rain” Prince cover served as a touching tribute to the late pioneer. The tribute was immediately followed by an Allman Brothers favorite, “Jessica”, that had every brother and sister at Express Live absolutely stunned. All 3 guitar players as well as the bass player traded off a wide variety of incredible licks throughout the extended Jessica jam. It was at this point that the energy from the stage served as a teleporter, taking the crowd back to the mid 1970s as the Allman Betts Band played the fan favorite in new directions to previously unknown heights.
Some of the band members stepped aside as Devon Allman occupied center stage to perform an acoustic piece from his solo repertoire, “Midnight Lake Michigan.” The band rejoined Mr. Allman onstage for the last song of their set before their encore, a groovy tune titled “Down to the River” from the Allman Betts Band debut album of the same name. A “Long Gone” encore closed out the show on a more somber note as the band tucked the crowd in and kissed them goodnight. The Allman Betts Band have done well in keeping the torch that was lit by their fathers breathing hot fire. Their music is a breath of new life to a generationally cherished song of love, life, sorrow, and new beginnings. While they may be in their infancy as a group, these strong beginnings hold a bright future for the band that includes two of the biggest blues-rock names in history. The Allman Betts Band is paying homage to their namesake in a strong manner, and is continuing to construct a legacy that will live on under their own achievements. This is an exciting band to see. You can find a show to check them out at here!
Allman Betts Band 6/21/19 Setlist
All Night
Shinin’
Left My Heart In Memphis
Blue Sky
Ain’t Wastin’ Time No More
Autumn Breeze
Good Ol’ Days
Purple Rain
Jessica
Dimples
Talking Time
Midnight Lake Michigan
You Got Lucky
Down to the River
Encore: Long Gone
The Allman Betts Band Ramble Their Way to Columbus
