The Band [LP]

The Band: Levon Helm (vocals, guitar, mandolin, drums); Robbie Robertson (vocals, guitar); Rick Danko (vocals, violin, trombone, bass); Richard Manuel (vocals, harmonica, baritone saxophone, piano, drums); Garth Hudson (accordion, soprano, tenor & baritone saxophones, trumpet, piano, organ, Clavinet).
Additional personnel: John Simon (tuba, horns, electric piano).
Producers: The Band, John Simon.
Reissue producers: Cheryl Pawelski, Andrew Sandoval.
Engineers include: Robbie Robertson, John Simon, Joe Zagarino.
Recorded in Hollywood, California in 1969.
Includes liner notes by Barney Hoskyns.
Initially renowned as Bob Dylan's backing group, the Band emerged from the singer's shadow to proclaim a distinctive talent. Drawing upon a musical canon embracing soul, country, folk and rock `n' roll, the quintet created a unique sound that was quintessentially American. Its rustic qualities were enhanced by principle songwriter Robbie Robertson who created vistas suggestive of a pre-industrial age, and as such, captured the restlessness of the late 60s without the need for explicit manifestos. Expressive singing, sublime melodies and telepathic musicianship instils The Band with quality, but its adult themes and perspectives ensure an absolute timelessness. An all-time critics' favourite.