Mellotronists

Leon Russell's Mellotron / Chamberlain usage is a real surprise. I am 
not sure if there is any on his 1971 LP "With The Shelter People", 
but I think I hear some faint strings on the first track. It starts 
well with "Carney" (1972), with half of the LP featuring  a 
Chamberlain. His next LP "Hanks Back" (1973) using a Mellotron on one 
track, 'I Feel So Lonesome I Could Cry'. It is strange for Mellotron 
strings to be used in a C&W ballad, but it really works. On his next 
LP, "Stop All That Jazz" (1974), there is a great track that uses 
very upfront tron strings, as well as a bit of Moog and Rhodes, no 
drums or guitar. Superb stuff. The next Lp, "Will O' The Wisp" is his 
most synthy, but does feature some great trom strings on one track, a 
great countryish ballad about father and son stuff. The real treat 
for the tron fan is the 1979 LP with Willie Nelson "One For The 
Road". While this may not sound too inviting, the second LP of this 
double LP set is wonderful. Willie sings, while Leon play keys; every 
song has a huge Tron string sound. Unfortunately, he also uses string 
synths, but you can always here the tron. This is a must listen! The 
songs are standards like "Danny Boy" and the like. No drums, really 
laid back, atmospheric, stuff. Check it out if you haven't already.