Pronounced ‘Lĕh-’nérd ‘Skin-’nérd is the first studio album by Lynyrd Skynyrd. I though I would give it a listen because it has the iconic ‘Free Bird’ which has been used countless times in all things. Specifically excellent in this fight scene (or any fight scene for that matter)

The album to my was softer then I was expecting. Funky at times and was very easy and pleasant to listen to.

I specifically liked the grooves in Gimme Three Steps, and the darkness in ‘Simple Man’. The vibes swing from riff rock to twangy country with bouncy piano, riff heavy groves and bright banjo. There was not enough of the epic anthemesque guitar leads which did pop out here and there.

The album culminates in the main event, assumable what many come to the record for. ‘Free Bird ’ frankly takes an age to get going. It is not the fast paced rock anthem I was expecting from hearing about a minuet of it in every action movie. Instead it is quite introspective and soft. Somewhat of a ballad. It does have an amazing build-up of energy which makes that minute feel so much more powerful and earnt. I would say it is a great turn and a perfect ending to this album. I wouldn’t be the song I would be reaching for in the gym however.

The guitar solo is fucking excellent.