Brothers of the Road cover

Brothers of the Road

The Allman Brothers Band

Album 1981

About this album

Sound: "A blend of Southern rock and polished pop sensibilities, marked by heartfelt melodies and vibrant guitar work."

Where they were

Released in January 1981, 'Brothers of the Road' was the Allman Brothers Band's first studio album after their reunion in 1979. At this point in their career, they were navigating a new musical direction following the loss of original members and aiming to re-establish their presence in a changing rock landscape.

Why it matters

'Brothers of the Road' is notable for its commercial success, peaking at No. 25 on the Billboard 200 chart. The album marked a shift towards a more radio-friendly sound, reflecting the band's adaptation to evolving musical trends while still resonating with long-time fans.

Essential tracks

  • "Brothers of the Road" — The title track encapsulates the album's themes of camaraderie and resilience, showcasing the band's signature blend of rock and country influences.
  • "Leavin’" — This track features a catchy chorus and strong vocal harmonies, highlighting the band's ability to craft accessible yet meaningful songs.
  • "The Heat Is On" — With its infectious rhythm and upbeat energy, this track represents the band's embrace of a more contemporary sound while retaining their roots.
  • "Maybe We Can Go Back to Yesterday" — This reflective ballad showcases lyrical depth paired with poignant instrumentation, illustrating the band's emotional range during this period.

Release Date

January 1, 1981

Artist Origin

United States

Tracklist

  1. 1 Brothers of the Road 4:02
  2. 2 Leavin’ 3:49
  3. 3 Straight From the Heart 3:48
  4. 4 The Heat Is On 4:14
  5. 5 Maybe We Can Go Back to Yesterday 4:45
  6. 6 The Judgement 3:42
  7. 7 Two Rights 3:32
  8. 8 Never Knew How Much (I Needed You) 4:28
  9. 9 Things You Used to Do 3:45
  10. 10 I Beg of You 3:23