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As their name makes plain, the Allman Betts Band continues in the tradition of the Allman Brothers Band. Devon Allman and Duane Betts -- the sons of Gregg Allman and Dickey Betts, respectively -- formed the group in 2018 with the intent purpose of celebrating the 50th anniversary of the foundation of the groundbreaking group of their fathers. By playing classic Allmans tunes, the Allman Betts Band kept the Southern rock torch burning in the 21st century, but Devon and Duane also made sure to write new material, too, releasing their debut Down to the River in June 2019.

To form their group, Devon Allman and Dickey Betts recruited bassist Berry Oakley, Jr. -- himself the son of original Allman bassist Berry Oakley -- organist John Ginty, slide guitarist Johnny Stachela, and percussionists John Lum and R. Scott Bryan. Working with producer Matt Ross-Spang, the band recorded the album that became Down to the River at Muscle Shoals Sound Studio in Alabama. The record appeared on June 28, just prior to the Allman Betts Band launching a summer tour. Using the same all-analog approach as their debut, the group reunited with both Ross-Spang and Muscle Shoals to record their follow-up, 2020's slightly more expansive Bless Your Heart. ~ Stephen Thomas Erlewine