The Deep End Vol. 1

The first of a two-volume set, The Deep End stands as both Gov't Mule's fourth studio album and as a tribute to their late bass player, Allen Woody, who died accidentally in August 2000. To rise above the tragedy, remaining members Warren Haynes and Matt Abts ambitiously--and brilliantly-- recorded each track with a different bass player and guest vocalist or guitarist, many of them favorites of Woody's and all renowned throughout the music world. Cream's Jack Bruce, Bootsy Collins, the Who's John Entwistle, Flea of the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Deep Purple's Roger Glover, and Larry Graham of Graham Central Station are among those lending a hand--and there are hints of an equally impressive guest roster for Vol. 2.

Gov't Mule elected to continue as a four-piece with the addition of a full-time keyboardist, and the material on The Deep End serves as a great introduction to this new direction. While most tracks are reminiscent of their three previous studio outings, many also take advantage of the expanded instrumental arsenal to stretch out a bit, particularly on "Down and Out in New York City," with its jazzy stylings, and "Sco-Mule," with its classic Santana-esque delivery. Through it all, the distinctive and powerful vocals, guitar playing, and songwriting of the ridiculously talented Haynes ensures that the end result is a cohesive collection of material that will delight fans while bringing many new admirers on board. --Eric Wilson