Atlanta Rhythm Section - A Rock And Roll Alternative (1976/2018) Hi Res

The Atlanta Rhythm Section swings, and that makes them prime contenders to join Lynyrd Skynyrd in filling the Southern rock void left by the Allman Brothers' painful dissolution. Unlike any of the competition, including Skynyrd, the Rhythm Section has developed a subtle synthesis that uses a pop sensibility where other bands plug in country influences. There's little doubt that with proper luck the Atlanta Rhythm Section could become the biggest hitmakers of any Southern band.

"So in to You" shows off all the band's best qualities. A propulsive rhythm is maintained by guitars and pianists, Dean Daughtry's finely syncopated keyboards are integral to the band's sound, not an afterthought. The rhythmic combinations of guitars and piano give singer Ronnie Hammond the soft-edged backup that is best for his pop-smooth voice, with multitracked harmonies heightening the effect. Barry Bailey's lead guitar dances atop this configuration with a light touch that, like Daughtry's, owes as much to a jazzman's subtlety as to a bluesman's growl.

"Georgia Rhythm" and "Neon Nights," which appeal both as melodies and instrumental workouts, similarly display the Rhythm Section's smooth integration of styles. The band's twin guitars highlight both: chunky rhythms embody the former's description of life on the rock & roll road, while the smoky jazz chordings of the latter beautifully capture the buzz of neon. The album's guitar showpiece, "Outside Woman Blues," stands up admirably next to Cream's version; the Rhythm Section has stretched out the tune's taut rhythm and left Bailey to maintain the tension with his long and combustive lead lines.

The Atlanta Rhythm Section is equally adept at hard rock and light "Sky High," which recalls the earlier "Crazy," and "Don't Miss the Message" are this set's hardest stuff but it's their smoothly swinging sense that distinguishes them from the other rebel rockers. This is their best album Dog Days comes in a close second and if it isn't the Rock and Roll Alternative its title presumptuously proclaims, it just might prove we don't need one.