Third Annual Pipe Dream / A Rock And Roll Alternative

Atlanta are one in all list

The Atlanta Rhythm Section was one of the best bands on the American rock circuit throughout the 70's. They called it a day in the early 80's but reformed in the later years of that decade with a new release which was followed by intermittent recordings thereafter. There is still an ARS on the road today but only one original member remains. There are a bewildering amount of compilations now available so I hope to make your choice easier by simply advising you to BUY THIS CD! BGO and GOTT Records are 2 labels that have now merged who specialise in making music (that may have slipped out of mainstream consciousness) available to fans in attractive newly mastered releases that are frequently great value 2 albums on one CD. You have one of the best bargains in their catalog on this release. I have already reviewed "A Rock 'n' Roll Alternative" as a single disc on these Amazon pages so will shorten my comments to describe it as one of the top 5 southern rock albums that's an absolute essential purchase for anyone interested in the genre. Briefly the best southern rock draws from different musical styles - boogie, blues and country with jazz touches and more than a passing nod to British blues rock. Paul Rodgers seems to have been a huge influence on many of the genre's top vocalists. ARS weren't as bluesy or boozy as Skynyrd or the Allmans but showed far greater musicality and subtle song-writing and arrangements that have stood the test of time. "Alternative" features "So Into You", "Georgia Rhythm", "Neon Nights" and "Hitch Hikers Hero" all classic songs with great vocals and superb harmonies. This album was released in 1976 and went gold Stateside within a year. "Third Annual Pipedream" dates from '74 and was the Georgia group's breakthrough album. While not as accomplished as it's coupling here it was still a big improvement on it 2 predecessors. The album opens with "Doraville" - the track that turned me onto southern rock. It's an infectious slice of country rock that builds a simple chord sequence by adding extra layers of harmony and I've been unable to avoid singing along every time I heard it since (over 35 years !) "Angel" is another classic. This song has a number of time changes and is an excellent and well-thought out arrangement. Bass players may note that most ARS albums featured a bass solo at a time when only the jazz-rock groups would consider doing such a thing. The CD has a couple of almost country acoustic singalongs ("Get your Head out of my Heart" - great title!, and "Jesus Hearted People") that will again have you joining in for the choruses. The remainder of the tracks are more routine though still worthwhile with a rather ordinary instrumental being a bit of an anti-climax.So you have almost 70 minutes of genre-defining music at a great price. The remastering gives a touch more clarity and more focussed bass than the original recordings. I couldn't recommend this release more highly. Can I also suggest you go for it's sister release where two more mid-70's albums "Dog Days" and "Red Tape" are paired with equally wonderful music.

Producer/Songwriter Buddy Buie put together some of the finest session musicians and turned them into The Atlanta Rhythm Section.The Atlanta Rhythm Section's "Third Annual Pipe Dream" delivers a captivating blend of Southern rock and soft melodies. The album showcases their exceptional musicianship and songwriting skills. From the groovy opener "Doraville"which was their first single that introduced them to the world, to the soulful "Angel (What in the World's Come Over Us)," each track captures the essence of the era with its rich harmonies and catchy hooks. The band's seamless instrumentation and Ronnie Hammond's powerful vocals create a captivating sonic journey. With its infectious energy and heartfelt lyrics, "Third Annual Pipe Dream" is a timeless gem that cements The Atlanta Rhythm Section's place in the rock world."Rock and Roll Alternative" album serves up a refreshing take on their signature sound. This record sees the band infusing their Southern rock roots with a more energetic and edgy approach. This album features their first big hit "So Into You." The guitar riffs are blistering, the rhythms are driving, and the vocals exude a raw passion. With its tight production and memorable hooks, "Rock and Roll Alternative" is a testament to the band's versatility and ability to evolve while staying true to their rock 'n' roll essence.

Great Double CD record. Memories of this band from the seventies and so nice to hear again.

Die absolut genialen ARS mit ihrem spezifischen Sound und Spielgefühl, was soll man da schreiben? Ausnahmegitarrist, Ausnahmesänger, Ausnahmesongs, irgendwie alles einzigartig und erste SahneBeste GrüßeJH

Remastered and sounding better than I remember

Great music from yesteryear. Handily available online.