Shout • Govt. Mule • Blue Note Records • Producers: Warren Haynes & Gordie Johnson • Score: 8 out of 10
This is the rock quartet's first album of original material in roughly four years and it was certainly worth the wait. Guitarist Warren Haynes and band have always delivered a sound that is gritty, adventurous and technically precise. And this album is right on par, but with a twist. It is a two-CD set, with Disc 1 featuring a set of Haynes vocally leading the group. But in unprecedented fashion, Disc 2 presents the same track list spotlighting Govt. Mule backing select songs led by Elvis Costello, Ben Harper, Dave Matthews and more. It's an interesting concept that, for the most part, works. What an honor and tribute that such a guest list would jump on board.
-Eric A. Harabadian
