Tune In, Turn On
There continues to be a groundswell of love and support for the Allman Brothers Band here at the Jersey Shore, even after the legendary band played its final show at the Beacon Theatre in New York City in 2014.
The children of the Allman Brothers Band founders are keeping the band’s legacy alive in South Jersey with their musical performances. Devon Allman, son of the late Gregg Allman, performed last month at Borgata Casino as part of the Allman Betts Band, alongside Duane Betts, son of late Dickey Betts. Devon will return to Atlantic City with his Blues Summit on Aug. 20 at Kennedy Plaza on the Boardwalk.
Melody and Vaylor Trucks, daughter and son of the late Allman Brothers Band drummer Butch Trucks, will make their South Jersey debut at the Somers Point Concert Series, presented by Tony Mart, on Friday, Aug. 8. The free show is scheduled for 7 p.m. at William Morrow Beach, on Bay Avenue.
Here’s an interview we did with Melody. I once did publicity work for her and her late father, Butch Trucks.
DD: Talk about the show you’re bringing to the southern New Jersey area for your August 8 appearance; who is in your band, etc?
Melody: This band is a dream. Everyone in the band is amazing. My brother, Vaylor, will be on guitar; phenom and local legend Ryan Gregg will be on the keys, and my rhythm section will be the Fitzkee Brothers (Drew on bass and Alex on drums). All are Roots Rock Revival alum and insanely talented.
DD: What would you say are the most important lessons you gleaned from your father as far as performing music and living the life of a musician?
Melody: There were definitely some amazing lessons he taught me about playing the type of music he helped to pioneer. First and foremost – never be afraid to sound bad. What that means is, get out of your own ego and put the music first. The music is ALWAYS first. He loved doing what he called “dangling his toes over the edge of oblivion.” You put yourself out there musically, letting everything go. If the people playing with you are doing the same; it could possibly turn into a train wreck, but it could also take you somewhere you’ve never been before. That is the magic of music.
DD: What does the Allman Brothers Band legacy mean to you?
Melody: The Allman Brothers Band was more than just a band to me. They are my family. I have immense pride in what they accomplished. Their music has changed the world, but they’ve done it by touching people in profound ways that you cannot quantify. I am honored that I get to play even a tiny part in keeping that alive.
DD: Have you done any recent new recordings, and/or do you have plans for any?
Melody: The Fitzkee Brothers and I have a project together (Melody Trucks and The Fitzkee Brothers), and we are currently writing an album together. It’s pretty exciting to be writing again.
DD: Where do you see yourself, musically, five years from now?
Melody: I see myself continuing the work I am doing with the foundation I am creating in my dad’s name – The Butch Trucks Legacy Foundation. I want to continue working with young musicians, helping them navigate the music industry and helping to pass on the musical traditions of jam. The last three years I have been working with the Fitzkee Brothers and their family. Their mother, Chana Fitzkee, has been my partner in helping to create the foundation and plan and execute our passion project, Road to Roots. This project is something that is very dear to us. We partner with music programs to teach the fundamentals of jam music and spread the word about Roots Rock Revival – a music masters retreat that my dad created that happens in Big Indian, New York every year (usually occurring the last week of July/first week of August). The Fitzkee Brothers have been integral in keeping this project moving forward, being the core of the band that travels with me for this project. I also see myself continuing to write, record and tour with the Fitzkees. I love them!
Tune Ups
The Dark Star Orchestra, the biggest, most popular of the Grateful Dead tribute bands, will play AC this Saturday, Aug. 2, at Hard Rock Live/Etess Arena.
Doug is the owner/operator of Doug Deutsch Publicity Services, which since 1995 has been servicing nationally touring acts, and working record release campaigns for clients. Doug can be reached at ShoreLocalDoug@gmail.com
