A Decade of Hits 1969-1979

With their dueling guitar leads and harmonies built on a double drummer foundation, the Allman Brothers Band cast the mold for the southern rock sound that would proliferate in the '70s. Virtuoso musicians, their songs drew upon a number of southern influences, including country, the blues, New Orleans jazz, and even gospel, creating a sound that was distinctly theirs. Decade of Hits is a great catalog of the Allman's at their guitar wielding best. The sweet, infectious harmonies on the instrumental "Jessica" have become a classic reference point in themselves. Next to the tragedies that plagued them--two motorcycle deaths, heroin addiction--the Allman's are probably best known for the heroic "Ramblin' Man." Written and sung by the now legendary Dickey Betts, the song contained everything that made the band great: intricate guitar harmonies, a strong melody, and just enough twang to keep the thing tight. Decade also contains Allman staples "Melissa," "In Memory of Elizabeth Reed," and "Southbound." --Steve Gdula

• Greatest Hits
• Lynyrd Skynyrd - All Time Greatest Hits
• The Band Greatest Hits
• Chronicle: The 20 Greatest Hits
• Best Of The Outlaws: Green Grass & High Tides
• At Fillmore East
• Eat A Peach [Remastered]
• Anthology: The First 30 Years
• Molly Hatchet - Greatest Hits [Expanded]
• The Allman Brothers Band