Gov’t Mule are probably the kings of the jam band scene, taking a song and stretching it way beyond the original. This album is part three, of what was originally released as a whole thing. The songs here are taken out of context and order of the original.
The album opens up with the superb slow blues of Hammer & Nails with some slide playing by Warren Haynes. An old band favourite is next with Trane, where the band take the song to different places every time they play it. Not many bands do this anymore as they nearly all play to click tracks and each gig you go to is very regimented, music-wise. The best parts of going to a music show would be these jam sections. Dreams & Songs closes out Side 1. Warren has such a warm tone to his voice and you feel as though you are sat on a porch down in Macon Georgia.
Whisper In Your Soul opens up Side 2 and this is quite an epic sounding piece from the slow build up to the groovy hook, this is a wonderful performance. Little Toy Brain starts slow low and bluesy and the listener feels as though they have been bought back to the mid-seventies. The album closes out with Funny Little Tragedy, with the added bonus of Message In A Bottle thrown in. The groove and the bass line are very similar so why not!
Going to see The Mule is quite the experience and one I recommend to all.
8/10 from The Grooveman.
