As an audiophile and one who particularly enjoys musical artist documentaries, this is a film I could not miss at the festival. During the 1970s, The Allman Brothers Band made their mark in the history of rock ‘n roll with their undeniable musical talent that earned them loads of fans and much respect. Director James Keach tells the story of the band’s lead singer and keyboard player, as he is considered an important part of rock history. Though the film is what one would expect from a rock documentary, it is essential viewing for Allman fans and those who appreciate his band’s contributions to music.
The film follows the life of Gregg Allman, born in Nashville, Tennessee, who would eventually form a successful rock band (with a southern blues flavor) with his brother Duane, who played guitar. The audience gets to experience Gregg’s early life and follow his journey as he develops into a successful musician with Duane, eventually forming the legendary Allman Brothers Band. We also get an intimate glimpse of how Allman’s fears and weaknesses challenge him as he navigates his personal life and fame.
For the most part, this film is a run-of-the-mill rockumentary, but for fans of Allman and his music, it is essential viewing. When I say run-of-the-mill, it has the usual archival footage and talking heads that most documentaries have. Director James Keach doesn’t present the story in any extraordinary way, but simply allows Gregg to tell his story and lets the music shine. And this approach works well enough.
I don’t honestly expect this film to rock cinemas in any major way, but I will say that it is a doc that deserves to be experienced with a great sound system to enjoy the music it presents. This is definitely a rockumentary made by a fan for the fans, so if you’re not a fan of The Allman Brothers Band, then this may not excite you at all. Still, if this is your first exposure to Gregg and the great music he created over the years, it just might turn you into a fan.