Ben Byrne gives us the lowdown on the latest album by Blues Rockers Gov't Mule

The latest release from one of the best “unknown” bands in the world arrives at a time when the scene is more open to a blues rock band than it would have been a few years ago. Now that things are more open to a 70s influence again bands as good as Gov’t Mule have a chance to be heard.

Formed as a 3 piece in the style of Cream in ’94 by Warren Haynes(Guitar,Vocals), Allen Woody(Bass) during their time in The Allman Brothers Band & also featuring Matt Abts(Drums) they’ve been steadily making their reputation in the States as a superb live band playing shows that regularly clock in around the 3 hour mark. During this time they also released consistently good albums.

Sadly Allen Woody died in 2000 & the band faced a period of uncertainty. Initially they played with guest bass players & eventually recorded The Deep End Vol.1 & Vol.2 which featured many of the world’s top bass players (& Allen’s favourites). Some of those involved included John Entwhistle, Chris Squire, Jason Newsted, Flea, Phil Lesh, Jack Bruce & Roger Glover to name just a few.

Following a concert dubbed The Deepest End which brought together many of these Musicians for one night only (available to buy this double CD & DVD is an essential purchase) they set about getting a permanent bass player. The new man is Andy Hess who spent some time with the Black Crowes. Also part of the band now is keyboardist Danny Louis & it was this quartet that set about recording the 1st band only album since Allen Woody’s death.

The album they came up with Deja Voodoo is a wonderful collection of songs that stands up with anything out there at the minute. This is blues rock of the highest standard played by top class musicians. The level of song writing throughout is superb with hints of many classic bands including Led Zep & Floyd. Check out Lola Leave Your Light On for a drum sound comparable to John Bonham & the song rocks like Zep at their prime.

Mellow tracks like Little Toy Brain or Wine & Blood show a different side to the band. Warren Haynes is the star of the show for his great guitar work & his superb singing voice but Matt Abts deserves a mention also for his drum work throughout.The man has to be one of the best rock drummers around at the moment. Very solid& really drives the band along.

Haynes comes from the “feel” school of playing rather than throwing out a blur of notes & this suits the music they play.

This is not an album full of singles & you won’t see them on MTV,it’s just great songs that you can either listen to all in one go or dip into occasionally as your mood dictates.

5/5

BEN BYRNE

 

Check out Gov't Mule's website