Y: The Last

After 25 years, constant traveling, nine albums, and various solo projects, Saffire are calling it quits with one last tour and Havin' the Last Word, a collection of new tunes, covers of favorites, and songs that define their dissolution. It sounds as though it's a happy-sad decision, gratified for all the success and love accrued from their fans, but pleased for future blues via other partnerships and collaborations that can now be achieved individually. Though all will pursue solo careers – Ann Rabson is already firmly established – it is this magical and timeless combination of spirit, focused same-page concept, and great musicianship that has served Saffire very well far beyond most bands. This final effort showcases individual vocal tracks, as if the group members are already preparing for going out on their own, as there's very little group harmonizing. Individual efforts notwithstanding, the group still convenes musically on common ground, especially when Rabson plays piano, Gaye Adegbalola jams on the slide guitar or harmonica, and Andra Faye offers her musings on fiddle, mandolin, or upright bass.

Formed in 1968 by departing Byrds Gram Parsons and Chris Hillman, the Flying Burrito Brothers boasted a stellar lineup of talent during their first half-decade of incarnations, including the Eagles’ Bernie Leadon and pedal steel legend “Sneaky” Pete Kleinow. But by 1972, soon-to-be Firefall founder Rick Roberts needed to recruit virtually a whole new band to fulfill tour dates already contracted for the Burritos. Enter bluegrass fiddle player Byron Berline and guitarist Roger Bush of Country Gazette, plus others, for a concert recorded in Amsterdam in 1972. A double vinyl LP capturing this show was released in Europe in 1973 but was never picked up in the U.S. until now. Live in Amsterdam 1972 features an entire bluegrass set followed by a selection of country-rock standards including “Wild Horses”, “Sin City,” and ‘Christine's Tune.”