C. Leavell

Song of the Day:

Sea Level – Rain in Spain

When the Allman Brothers broke up (for the first time) in 1976, pianist extraordinaire  Chuck Leavell, drummer  Jai Johanny “Jaimoe” Johanson and Berry Oakley replacement Lamar Williams stayed together and formed a new band called Sea Level with the addition of guitarist Jimmy Nalls.  Sea Level was less bluesy and more Jazz Rock than the ABB but, don’t let that deter you, this is still a funky, super tight Southern Rock band.  Their eponymous debut album opens with the rockin’ instrumental opus Rain in Spain which can be considered almost a sequel to the Allman’s Jessica which featured Leavells’ signature piano solo.  Rain is a bit more jazzy of course but, no less appealing and memorable.  It is the highlight of this solid album and a a good place to start to explore Sea Level and C. Leavell.  Enjoy.