Artpark in Lewiston, NY was the setting last Tuesday for a show from one of the hardest working bands in music today, Gov’t Mule. Formed in 1994 by guitarist Wayne Haynes and bassist Allen Woody, this was supposed to be a side project of the Allman Brothers. Years later, Gov’t Mule has released 10 albums and their latest offering “Revolution Come…Revolution Go”presently sits at #5 on the U.S. Rock chart. A loyal group of fans gathered to hear Gov’t Mule play a long list of new songs from the album and a mix of hits with a few surprises thrown in.
The show opened with the bluesy “Hammer And Nails” and the classic “Mule” as the crowd were up on their feet early. Blasting right into the Bo Diddley cover of “Who Do You Love,” Haynes displayed his proficient slide guitar playing that has become the staple of the Mule sound. His gravely voice belted out the lyrics as the strong rhythm section laid down a back beat. “Painted Silver Light,” perhaps the most revered Mule song, was up next and met with a joyuous response.
The guest horns of Ben Ellman and Shamar Allen from opener Galactic sat in on “I’d Rather Go Blind” and “Spanish Moon” to the delight of attendees. As a common feature of Gov’t Mule shows, guest musicians are welcomed and given the spotlight. The title track of “Revolution Come, Revolution Go” was a highlight with band members taking turns in the solo spot. The band ended the show with two songs “Brand New Angel” and the encore of “Soulshine,” in which they dedicated to their friend and mentor, Greg Allman.
Gov’t Mule continue the tradition of respect, charm, and easy going nature that makes their southern rock sound one to be remembered for a long time. Here’s to hoping they come back to the area soon with more of the same.
Setlist:
Hammer and Nails (The Staple Singers cover) with Who Do You Love? snippet ( Bo Diddley cover)
Mule (W/Shakedown St.)
Painted Silver Light
Thorazin
Have Mercy on the Criminal (Elton John cover)
I’d Rather Go Blind (W/Galatic Horns) (Etta James cover)
Spanish Moon (W/Galatic Horns) (Little Feat cover)
Broke Down on the Brazos
Doing it to Death (The J.B.’s cover)
Stone Cold Rage
Revolution Come, Revolution Go
Blind Man in the Dark (W/Ain’t No Sunshine – Bill Withers cover)
Riders on the Storm (The Doors cover)
Blind Man in the Dark (Reprise)
Unring the Bell (W/Shakedown St.)
Brand New Angel
Encore:
Soulshine (Allman Brother cover)
We would like to thank Maria Hays for the credentials to review the show.
