Sea Level-Sea Level (1977)

Sea Level was a magnificent American band that had considerable impact in the mid-1970s. It was formed by some former members of The Allman Brothers Band, including keyboardist Chuck Leavell, drummer Jai Johanny Johanson, and bassist Lamar Williams. However, even before leaving The Allman Brothers Band, these three musicians had already formed the side project We Three, with whom they even opened for their main band during the North American tour promoting the album "Win, Lose or Draw", playing in both bands each night. Following the Allman Brothers' initial breakup in late 1976, the three musicians, along with guitarist Jimmy Neals, decided to continue as Sea Level, signing a contract with Capricorn Records, who produced their self-titled debut album, "Sea Level", in 1977. The style of this new band wasn't too far removed from their Allman Brothers sound, featuring southern rock with noticeable influences of jazz and funk. This first album comprises an irresistible collection of dazzling tracks, such as the jazz-rock instrumental "Tidal Wave", the jazzy "Shake Leg", the brilliant "Rain in Spain", the funk-infused "Country Fool", and the southern rock anthems "Just a Good Feeling", "Nothing Matters But the Fever", and "Grand Larceny". After receiving a warm reception from both the public and critics, the band continued to release a series of interesting albums, including "Cats On The Coast" (1977), "On The Edge" (1978), "Long Walk on a Short Pier" (1979), and "Ball Room" (1980). Later, Chuck Leavell joined the Rolling Stones as a session and backing musician, a position he held from 1983 until 2016, leading to the band's final breakup in mid-1982.