Potliquor had its beginning in 1969 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana and played an intriguing mix of country, blues- and southern rock. They released three excellent albums between 1970 and 1973 and on more in 1979 before finally breaking up. Yet these godfathers of southern rock never got the recognition they deserved.
Potliquor was formed in the late 60´s by George Ratzlaff (keyboards, rhythm guitar, vocals), Les Wallace (guitar, vocals), Guy Schaeffer (bass, vocals) and Jerry Amoroso (drums, percussion, vocals) and soon after that signed a deal with small Janus Records label. Their debut album, First Taste was produced by the band’s manager, Jim Brown and came out in 1970.
Potliquor’s sophomore effort, Levee Blues was released in December 1971 and is considered as their best album by many. Lousiana Rock and Roll followed in 1973. Despite the Molly Hatchet type heavy boogie and horn section that occasionally reminds you of Atlanta Rhythm Section, Pot Liquor never raised to a level they deserved and stayed as a regionally touring band.
In 1974 the band took a hiatus until original bass player Guy Schaeffer and drummer Jerry Amoroso put the band back together by adding Steve Sather and Mike McQuaig to guitars and Pot Liquor released one more self-titled album through Capitol Records. Fans found their new, more radio friendly approach lacking the good ol´southern groove Potliquor had on earlier albums and the band broke up soon after that.
Pot Liquor Discography:
1970 First Taste
1971 Levee Blues
1973 Louisiana Rock and Roll
1979 Potliquor
2008 Best of Potliquor
