Written by Debbie Hall
Photos by Chris Brush / Smoking Monkey Photo
The Allman Family Revival celebrates the life, spirit, and music of Gregg Allman, hosted by his son, Blues Music award-winning Devon Allman, and anchored by his group, The Devon Allman Project. The Allman Family Revival continues with its cross-country tour on the west coast.
Along with many iconic performers on tour, John Lum (drums) has been performing with the show since its inception in 2017. He appreciates the music as well as the power of cannabis with its healing powers.
Originally from St. Louis, Lum was always involved in music as he grew up in the Midwest.
“The local music scene was a very active circuit about 15 years ago, so I toured with several bands, including the River Kittens, which is on Devon Allman’s label. We connected when I met him in 2017, and now I play in the revival show,” explains Lum.
As for the music, “It is a huge honor to play on this tour. We listened to the recordings and tried to figure out what was happening. Personally, for me, musically, when you put a lens on the music, they [Allman Brothers] were in their late teens and early 20s. They were jamming organically and changing how the music is listened to, especially in the US. I would have to say it is a global influence.”
Given the time period and how the music was composed and arranged, Allman Brothers’ music is very sophisticated with many moving parts. The music works together, balances out the many elements unique to the band, and moves the audience. Lum spoke about the respect he has gained for the Allman Brothers and the way the music still influences today’s audiences.
“We are making music with their vision and honoring tradition as it grows with the next generation,” says Lum.
One of the tour dates will be at the Westgate Las Vegas on Dec. 15, home of several iconic performers, including Barry Manilow and Elvis. Formerly the International Hotel, the Westgate honors and celebrates the soundtrack of life yesterday, today and tomorrow. It is fitting that the Allman Family Revival would be performing in its showroom.
If planning a Vegas staycation, book two (2) nights with the “Let Us Entertain You” Package at the Westgate, including two tickets to the show, along with a $50 dining/drinking credit to be used at any of its award-winning restaurants. Click here to book rooms and click here to purchase tickets.
As for cannabis, Lum uses the plant to help him in several areas of health and relaxation. “It is intense to play drums for two to three hours, and I have to be extremely focused. I do many things to be certain that I am my best self onstage, including getting plenty of rest, eating a proper diet, exercising, and using cannabis for sleeping. I want to give my best performance at every show.”
Lum admits that he is tempted to keep working, rehearsing, and drumming when he is tired, and cannabis helps him to relax and rest. Cannabis helps him with balance in his life, and he is thrilled about the acceptance of cannabis use, especially in the music industry.
“We are able to use cannabis if it helps us and not be ostracized,” says Lum. “Cannabis also helps me with my creative process and is part of my holistic lifestyle. I am a big proponent of its benefits. I really like reading Sensi magazine, and the articles spread the good word.”
The Allman Family Revival initially began as a one-time concert in 2017 at The Fillmore in San Francisco to celebrate the late Gregg Allman’s life on what would have been his 70th birthday. It has since expanded into a full tour featuring the Devon Allman Project, Duane Betts, Maggie Rose, Jimmy Hall, Larry McCray, Donovan Frankenreiter, G. Love, and Alex Orbison.
The Allman Family Revival Tour will perform in Denver on Dec. 12, Phoenix on Dec. 14, Las Vegas on Dec. 15, Los Angeles on Dec. 16, and San Francisco on Dec. 17.
Website: AllmanFamilyRevival.com
Facebook: @ AllmanFamilyRevival
Instagram: @ allmanfamilyrevival
YouTube: 2022 video
