Allman Members Sue UMG

Members of the Allman Brothers Band have sued Universal Music Group and PolyGram, claiming that tracks recorded for the band's personal use were wrongfully transferred to the labels. The action was filed Friday in California Superior Court in L.A. by Gregg Allman, Jai Johnny Johanson, Butch Trucks, and the estate of Berry Oakley. According to the suit, following the 1979 bankruptcy of the Allman's onetime label Capricorn Records, the band's personal tapes and masters were transferred to PolyGram "without the knowledge or consent" of the group, as part of a bankruptcy court order. The group is seeking a judgment regarding the disposition of the tapes.

A Universal spokesman says the company does not comment on pending litigation.