Album Review: Atlanta Rhythm Section - Atlanta Rhythm Section / Back Up Against The Wall

In 1977, MCA records re-released the first two Atlanta Rhythm Section Decca albums on a double disc set.  This was after the 1976 breakout album "A Rock And Roll Alternative".  It included the 1972 release "Atlanta Rhythm Section" and the 1973 release "Back Up Against The Wall".  Just to keep it confusing, the used the cover artwork from Back Up Against The Wall, but removed the title.    There's no mention of the two records on the front or back, only a notice at the bottom right corner of the back cover stating "The selections contained in this album have been previously released on the Decca label (DL7-5265, DL7-5390)".  It is almost like they were trying to be obtuse.

Original albums:

Anyway, I recently picked this (the MCA double disc) up at a used record store, thought I'd review both discs here.


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Artist:  Atlanta Rhythm Section
Album:  Atlanta Rhythm Section
Released: 1972
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The most notable thing about ARS’s debut is that it features a different lead singer, Rodney Justo.  He was replaced by Ronnie Hammond by the second album.  The singing isn’t  dramatically different, but is clearly different.  Justo is not quite as “smooth” as Hammond, and that kind of goes for the whole album.  It’s a decent album, and the playing is solid, but there’s not really any standout songs here.  My favorite is the instrumental “Earnestine”.  There’s also an early version of “Another Man’s Woman”, which was perfected on 1976’s Red Tape album.  Overall, a very good album, if not a great one.  And it lays the groundwork for where they were going.

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Artist:  Atlanta Rhythm Section
Album:  Back Up Against The Wall
Released: 1973
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This album shows growth musically, as ARS was developing.  The addition of Ronnie Hammond on vocals sets the band's lineup that would be steady through the 70's.  And, except for changing drummers, the lineup held through 1983 (10 albums).  That's impressive stability.  

The band isn't as polished as they would become, but they getting close.  And there's some gems on this album.  Most notable, "Conversation" and "Back Up Against The Wall", both of which were included on their 1979 live album.  A very good record, more very good that their first, and edging towards great.

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Aside:  I wouldn't rate ARS as one of my favorite bands, butg I've always liked them.  I saw them a couple times in concert, never as a headliner...  but they were generally solid.  And somehow, through the years, I've ended up with 9 of their first 11 albums!  Just the way things have worked out, I suppose.