Album Review: Lynyrd Skynyrd – One More For The Fans
2 min read
Before you moan about the fact that yet another ‘Greatest Hits: Live’ album has been set upon the world, think a little about Lynyrd Skynyrd. With over 60 albums released, a staggering $30 million in record sales worldwide and a seemingly endless back-catalog of hits, they are more than entitled to as many ‘Greatest Hits’ albums as they want, and given their reputation for high energy performances, it’s fitting that they treat their fans to another stomping and eclectic set.
Recorded at their sell-out show at Atlanta’s Fox Theatre on November 12, 2014, 37 years after the fatal plane crash that claimed the lives of three of the bands heavyweights including lead singer Ronnie Van Zant, Lynyrd Skynyrd are less concerned with earning a quick buck and more fixated on celebrating and honoring their loyal fan-base who helped catapult them into the mainstream.
Remaining members Gary Rossington, Johnny Van Zant, Ricky Medlocke and Michael Cartellone rip through 19 hits on the double disc album with the help of some very special guests including Randy Houser, Warren Hayes and Trace Adkins, all delivering a strong and heartfelt set, that although tinged with some tenderness, sounds like one enormous Southern-rock party.
Standouts include the stirring Free Bird, the emotionally charged Travelin’ Man which is sung by the brother of the late Van Zant, and of course the show-stopping Sweet Home Alabama which serves as the perfect closing ending to the album; the crowds screams are so loud it’s as if you are standing front row and center at the Fox Theatre.
The togetherness and their absolute love for music is so audible on every track and unlike some of their more ‘seasoned’ musical counterparts, they still play as strong as they did in their hey-da. After all, when lead vocalist Johnny Van Zant announces in the final moments of the album “let’s keep it going for another 40 years” the crowds response indicates that their hey-day could very well be extended for many, many years to come.
