Swamp Music: Review of Second Helping (1974)

Lynyrd Skynyrd’s second album “Second Helping” is an impressive follow up to the band’s pristine debut record. The album doesn’t stray too far from the debut, keeping the hard-southern rock sound that provided the band with its strong foundation. Kicking off with the famous “Sweet Home Alabama”, the record immediately lets the listener know they’re in for a honkey-tonkin’ good time. Other songs like “Don’t Ask Me No Questions” and “Workin’ for MCA” provides listeners with alternative options to boogie with. But Ronnie Van Zant also offers his empathetic side to the average man, like with “The Ballad of Curtis Lowe”, which explores the roots of the blues and its original torchbearers. “Swamp Music” is a personal favorite; a track that oozes the blues and is a nod to earlier artists like Howlin’ Wolf. The band’s signature three guitar charge with Powell’s keyboard twang is tight throughout the whole record. Lynyrd Skynyrd was known for being on-point and downright serious when it came to making music during this time. Working with Al Kooper, who produced their first record, Skynyrd was able to bring forth an array of emotions that doesn’t feel lazy or unfaithful to their blue-collar roots.

Rating: 4.8 out of 5