The Flying Burrito Brothers Burrito Deluxe
The Flying Burrito Brothers are one of the most influential bands in the history of country rock, and their second album, Burrito Deluxe, is often cited as one of their best. Released in 1970, the album features a mix of original songs and covers, and showcases the band's unique blend of country, rock, and soul.
History of the Flying Burrito Brothers
The Flying Burrito Brothers were founded in 1968 by Gram Parsons, who had recently left The Byrds. Parsons was joined by Chris Hillman, who had also been a member of The Byrds, as well as bassist Chris Ethridge and drummer Sneaky Pete Kleinow. The band quickly gained a following with their unique sound, which combined traditional country music with elements of rock and roll, folk, and soul.
Over the years, the band underwent several lineup changes, with Parsons remaining the driving force behind their music until his untimely death in 1973. Despite their relatively short lifespan, the Flying Burrito Brothers left an indelible mark on the history of rock music, and their influence can still be heard in the work of countless artists today.
The Making of Burrito Deluxe
Burrito Deluxe was the Flying Burrito Brothers' second album, and the follow-up to their critically acclaimed debut, The Gilded Palace of Sin. The album was recorded over a period of several months in the summer of 1969, with producer Jim Dickson at the helm.
The album features a mix of original material and covers, with each member of the band contributing at least one song. Highlights include Hillman's "Sin City," Parsons' "Dark End of the Street," and the band's cover of Bob Dylan's "If You Gotta Go, Go Now."
Despite their creative differences and personal conflicts, the band members were able to come together to create an album that showcased their unique sound and highlighted their individual strengths.
Reception and Legacy
Burrito Deluxe was released to mixed reviews, with some critics praising the album's eclectic mix of styles and others criticizing the band's lack of cohesion. However, over the years, the album has come to be recognized as one of the Flying Burrito Brothers' best works, and a classic of the country rock genre.
The album's influence can be heard in the work of countless artists, from The Eagles to Wilco to Ryan Adams. The Flying Burrito Brothers' unique blend of country, rock, and soul continues to inspire musicians today, and their legacy lives on.
Conclusion
Burrito Deluxe is a classic album that showcases the Flying Burrito Brothers' unique blend of country, rock, and soul. Despite the band's short lifespan, their influence can still be heard in the work of countless artists today, and their legacy continues to live on. Whether you're a fan of country rock, or just appreciate great music, Burrito Deluxe is an album that is definitely worth revisiting.