by Dan Bloom, producer
Warren Haynes grew up in Asheville, North Carolina surrounded by the musical influence of his family. Soul music was his first love, but hearing the music of Jimi Hendrix catapulted him to a deep apprecation of guitar-based rock n roll. After stints with David Allen Coe, The Allman Brothers Band and The Grateful Dead, Haynes formed his own group, Gov’t Mule, with the late bassist Allen Woody, and current drummer Matt Abts.
Now joined in the band by Danny Louis and Jorgen Carlsson, “Mule” as they’re affectionally known by their fans, have released their first album on Blue Note Records under the stewardship of Don Was, a double CD titled “Shout!”
Not only does “Shout!” feature the renowned musicianship and songwriting of Warren Haynes, but the second disc includes guest vocals provided by some of the top singers in music, including Ben Harper, Dave Mattews, Grace Potter, Dr. John, Toots Hibbert and Elvis Costello. Gathering such a talented group of guest vocalists speaks to the great respect Haynes garners among his peers and to the selflessness of an artist who is confident enough to let others wield the microphone on his songs.
“Shout!” is a wonderful album, described by our host as “scary good.” Haynes and Gov’t Mule have delivered a unique combination of expert musicianship, compelling songs and creative production that will leave fans both old and new singing their praises.
For more on Gov’t Mule, visit mule.net
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