By: David Schultz

The Allman name carries a lot of weight in certain rock circles; it also raises a lot of expectations. Just like Sean Lennon will always have difficulty carving out a career without reminding listeners of his father, Devon Allman's name will perk up some ears eager to compare him to his father, Gregg. Where fellow descendant Derek Trucks has primarily made his name playing with his father in the Allman Brothers Band, Devon Allman has opted to seek his fortune on his own, putting his famous surname atop Honeytribe. Using Torch as a guide, Honeytribe would be better served without the unfair expectations wrought by Allman's name atop the marquee.

On their debut album, they come across as a competent bar band, putting forth blues riffs, straightforward classic rock and a roadhouse weary reading of Bob Marley's "No Woman, No Cry" without doing a whole lot to freshen them up. Having inherited his father's signature roguish soul and bluesy wail, Allman's singing is more inspired than his guitar riffs. Notwithstanding Allman's vocal charms, the standout tracks feature Honeytribe's instrumental skills. "Mahalo," a Santana-style instrumental truly sizzles and "Heaven Has No Mercy" gets a lively jolt from Jack Kirkner's organ and Allman's guitar.

Honeytribe is about to start a major North American tour that will have them playing numerous dates with Gregg Allman & Friends. The exposure will no doubt be a tremendous boon to the band, but they might be better served growing outside the unfairly raised expectations the Allman name carries.

Labels: Devon Allman, Honeytribe