Robbie Robertson is working on a deluxe edition of The Band’s Rock Of Ages live album. The album, which was recorded during the group’s 1971 residency at New York City’s Academy of Music, featured special horn arrangements that were put together by New Orleans icon Allen Toussaint and and performed by a five-piece horn section. A statement on Robbie Robertson’s Facebook page from earlier today reads:

At Eric Clapton’s Crossroads Concert in NYC I did the song ‘I Shall Be Released’ which The Band recorded on our first album. I told the audience it was in remembrance of some dear old friends. Most people knew I was referring to Levon (who passed away one year ago today), Rick and Richard.

We are mixing and putting together a deluxe edition of The Band’s album Rock Of Ages — Live At The Academy Of Music. Hearing my Bandmates perform at the top of their game is so moving and powerful.

I miss those days and miss them so much.

Thank God, Garth is still with us and making beautiful music. -Robbie

As Robertson mentions in the statement, today is the first anniversary of The Band drummer Levon Helm’s passing. A feature on Helm from the July 2009 issue of Relix can be read here.