By Doug Deutsch
One of classic Southern Rock’s most loved bands, the Allman Brothers Band, have lived on through the ABB-influenced music of the legendary group’s offspring – e.g. Duane Betts (Dickey Bett’s son), Melody Trucks and Vaylor Trucks (Butch Truck’s children), and Gregg Allman’s son, Devon Allman.
Currently fronting the Devon Allman Project and on tour across the U.S., the 51-year-old guitarist, vocalist, songwriter, and record producer performs Wednesday, Aug. 7 at Mardi Gras on the Boardwalk presented by Tony Mart (7 p.m., free).
Allman – hailed by Tony Mart Concerts Promoter, Carmen Marotta, as “The Living Legacy of Classic Southern Rock” – is also set to release “Miami Moon,” his first new album in eight years, Aug. 16 on his own Create Records label. Allman also reconnects with his pal, the aforementioned Duane Betts, for a slate of Allman Betts Family Revival dates beginning November 30 in St. Charles, IL.
Devon kindly took some time to answer some interview questions (thanks to his Manager Rueben Williams).
DD: Hi Devon, thanks for spending some time with us to answer these questions. Let’s discuss when and why you decided to record and release ‘Miami Moon,’ your first new album in eight years?
DEVON: It was time for me to make an album that really showcased some of my true loves musically, like Curtis Mayfield and Sade, among others. I had gone long enough since I had made a solo record. When you’re part of an ensemble cast, it’s a game to work as a team, but there’s another side of creativity that allows for more personal musical growth where the framework can be a bit more elastic. I love both team work and solo work…but eight years is a long time…so it was time.
DD: You’ve assembled a powerful lineup of musicians to record with you on ‘Miami Moon.’ How did you get all those A-Listers to jump on board the project?
DEVON: I texted them and asked, they said yes! 🙂
DD: You chose to release the song “White Horse” as the first single and video off Miami Moon. Can you tell us why?
DEVON: I felt like “White Horse” would let folks know right away this is a different record for me!
DD: In November you’ll co-lead the Eighth Annual Allman Betts Family Revival that you have kept alive and thriving all these years with Duane Betts. How are you able to keep such a busy work schedule?
DEVON: I try not to think about it (laughs) I just plow down the road man.
DD: Discuss the relationship you and Duane Betts have.
DEVON: We laugh a lot when together. We dig talking about music. We dig beaches, fine dinners of fish and flesh, world travel, excellent coffees and our wives are great friends. Duane and I have been family for a long time.
DD: What can the people that come to see your show on the Atlantic City Boardwalk on Aug. 7 expect to see/hear from the Devon Allman Project?
DEVON: My solo shows lately have been a fun romp through my career. Touching on every iteration of band and album that I’ve worked on over the last two decades.
DD: Talk about the ways you continue to honor both your father’s legacy and that of the Allman Brother Band.
DEVON: Come check out an Allman Betts Family Revival show this winter and see for yourself!
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 also hàs experience writing for the one time shore-based weekly publication, Whoot! He also was a team member with Chip Braymes Advertising. Doug loves bicycling and aspires to bring the Blues to Atlantic City. He can be reached at ShoreLocalDoug@gmail.com and www.facebook.com/dougdeutschpublicity.
