Wednesday, May 9, 2012

Marshall Tucker Band- Together Forever

Together Forever
In the cannon comprising MTB records, "Together Forever" stands as perhaps the most "jazzy" MTB album. Certainly, I think it's the most distinct of them all. The C&W/Southern Rock influence, while present, is most interestingly placed in the background in favor of a more jazzed up approach; major 7th/9th chords and diminshed chords take a predominant role. This is actually a good thing, as it breathes new life into the musical formula that got MTB to the top. The vocal interplay between Toy Caldwell and Doug Gray is excellent and the musical trade-offs between Toy and Jerry Eubanks (on woodwinds) is top notch. Toy Caldwell is one of the most underrated guitarists in rock history, yet one of the best. George McCorkle plays a mean rhythm guitar (as usual) and, in a most pleasant surprise, the drumming of Paul Riddle and bass playing of Tommy Caldwell are imbued with a fire not seen since MTB's first record. All of these guys can play the pants off of most musicians with one arm tied behind their respective backs, and it is powerfully refreshing to hear it. This is a much, much better record than its predecessor, "Carolina Dreams," which appears to receive a heap of praise because it contains the hit "Heard it in a Love Song." While that record is merely okay, "Together Forever" is a wonderful change of pace.

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