With the recent addition of Andy Hess as a long-sought permanent bassist, Gov't Mule will bring their "Rebirth of a Mule Tour" to the CFA tonight with special guests Chris Robinson (formerly of the Black Crowes) and his band, New Earth Mud.
After breaking up over a year ago, Black Crowes front man Robinson has shifted his passion to a new group of musicians. Portraying a revitalized demeanor and sound, Robinson and New Earth Mud tend to borrow a page from the well-established Black Crowes book, and show a flare for funk, jazz and jam flavors.
For their show at the CFA, Robinson will perform renditions of popular Crowes songs acoustically and a slew of his new band's material.
Gov't Mule, featuring guitarist extraordinaire Warren Haynes, headline tonight's event. One of the premier live acts in the genre, Mule has reformed, with the permanent addition of Andy Hess on bass guitar, to become a well-balanced attack of soulful blues and exploratory jazz.
Since playing a legendary rock and roll show May 3 in New Orleans - a six hour marathon where everybody from Jason Newsted, formerly of Metallica, to Primus' Les Claypool performed - Gov't Mule has finally found the man for the job. Ironically, like opening act Chris Robinson, Hess is also a former member of The Black Crowes.
Formed in 1994 when Haynes and the late bassist Allen Woody were touring as members of the Allman Brothers Band, Gov't Mule has progressively become more popular among college-aged crowds across the country.
Originally performing as a power trio with current drummer Matt Abts, Gov't Mule's sound quickly found its niche. Their sound possesses a commanding quality while maintaining its soulful element.
"People turn out for Warren because everyone has absolute confidence that if he is involved, the music is going to be great," said Phish guitarist Trey Anastasio after trading licks with Haynes at awards ceremony of The Jammy's.
Today's incarnation of Gov't Mule is slightly doctored. Keyboardist Danny Louis was added to the lineup, which added timely organ and electric piano textures that filled in the apparent holes nicely. Lewis' presence provides a lighter dimension to a fierce, and at times overpowering, sound.
Ranging anywhere between a mellow, reggae influenced jazz and straight-up, distortion-laden rock and roll, Gov't Mule has much to offer, especially live. They play versatile live shows that can incorporate just about any musical style in a single evening.
Gov't Mule and New Earth Mud will perform tonight at the CFA Mainstage. Tickets are $23 for students with a valid ID and $27 for the general public. The show starts at 7:30 p.m.
Photo: Courtesy of Laron Fomby
