“soaring harmonies, lilting love songs, and rollicking Southern rockers” – No Depression
Pure Prairie League continues to embellish its rich fifty-plus year history of one of country-rock’s pioneering forces. There, they began in mid-Sixties Ohio as a group of friends playing cover tunes. Now, the present-day unit features the propulsive team of drummer Scott Thompson and bassist Jared Camic. Additionally, keyboard master Randy Harper, guitar ace/vocalist Jeff Zona and pedal steel/saxophonist John Heinrich. Here, as one reviewer recently wrote: “PPL’s sound combines sweet memories with edgy, contemporary muscle. Their vocals are as strong as Kentucky moonshine and the musicianship and performance skills are as sharp as a straight razor”.
PPL’s eponymous first album has been hailed as a major early influence in the emerging popularity of country-rock music. Then, their second effort, the multi-platinum Bustin’ Out featured the Craig Fuller-penned classic “Amie”, along with other gems of the genre. Also, over several albums and countless shows, a legacy has been forged and enriched. The band has enjoyed contributions from several noteworthy members, including original co-founder George Ed Powell, and Cincinnati’s legendary Goshorn Brothers. Also, Country Hall of Famers Gary Burr and Vince Gill, award-winning writer Jeff Wilson (three Top twenty singles), top Nashville session vocalist Curtis Wright and others. Furthermore, they have featured guest appearances from Chet Atkins, Johnny Gimble, Emmylou Harris, David Sanborn, Don Felder (Eagles), and more.
Moreover, the new generation: Keith Urban, Nickel Creek, Wilco, Counting Crows and more cite PPL as a major influence.
Now, with the release of 2024’s Back On Track, PPL brings it all back home with a dozen new songs. Here, they complete the circle begun in 1970 and continues to this day.
Recommended for fans of Poco, The Doobie Brothers, The Eagles and The Flying Burrito Brothers.
