In 1982, Southern Rock mainstays Blackfoot took a detour from the studio and delivered a scorching live album, "Highway Song Live." This 12" vinyl LP captured the band at the height of their powers, feeding the flames of a genre that was both commercially potent and critically divisive.
Blackfoot emerged in the late 70s, carrying the torch of Lynyrd Skynyrd and The Allman Brothers Band. Their brand of Southern Rock was a potent blend of bluesy swagger, rock & roll energy, and extended guitar explorations. "Highway Song Live" arrived just a year after their critically acclaimed studio album "Marauder," showcasing a band hungry to unleash their music on a live audience.
The album wasn't just a collection of hits. It delved into Blackfoot's deep catalog, offering extended jams and electrifying performances of tracks like "Train Train" and "Good Morning." Frontman Rick Medlocke, with his signature raspy vocals and scorching guitar work, was a force of nature.
Southern Rock in the early 80s was a genre caught in a tug-of-war. While commercially successful, it was often dismissed by critics as derivative and macho. "Highway Song Live" stood as a testament to the genre's raw power and energetic live experience. It was a middle finger to critics, a celebration for fans, and a document of a band at the peak of their live prowess.
The behind-the-scenes players also deserve mention. Producer Al Nalli, who had worked with acts like Lynyrd Skynyrd, helped capture the energy of Blackfoot's live show. Engineer Andy de Ganhal ensured the sonic fury translated to vinyl.