Words By: Jordyn Kieft

Renowned quartet Gov’t Mule recently released their first-ever blues album, Heavy Load Blues, via Fantasy Records. Heavy Load Blues was recorded live in the studio at The Power Station New England on analog tape, utilizing vintage guitars, amps, and other equipment to capture an authentic sound. Led by GRAMMY Award-winning vocalist, songwriter, guitar legend, and producer Warren Haynes, Gov’t Mule has become a human encyclopedia of great American music while adding to that canon with their signature sound. Gov’t Mule has galvanized a global fan base with their honest, organic, and daring music and improvisational virtuosity, leading them to be recognized as one of the most timeless, revered, and active bands in the world whose spot amongst rock titans remains unshakable.

The 13-track album, produced by Haynes alongside engineer and co-producer John Paterno [Michael Landau, Robbie Williams, The Steve Gadd Band], encompasses an even mix of Haynes’ originals and revered covers, including their rendition of the Tom Waits classic “Make It Rain,” a groovy arrangement of the Junior Wells standard “Snatch It Back and Hold It,” and more originally made famous by the likes of Howlin’ Wolf, Elmore James, Ann Peebles, Bobby “Blue” Bland, and the Animals. Gov’t Mule, who is known for pushing the parameters while melding a variety of genres — rock, R&B, jam, funk, jazz, and practically everything in-between, often opted to put their own spin on their covers.

“I’m really glad that we made the decision as a band to make a blues record,” Haynes shares about Heavy Load Blues. “Every one of us was excited about the concept and the change in direction. It forced us to do things completely differently than we’ve ever done in the past. When we were recording, we were just kind of shutting our brains off, letting go, and playing the blues. And it turned out to be music that only Gov’t Mule could make.”

Heavy Load Blues begins with a cover of “Blues Before Sunrise” by Eric Clapton. Featuring a groovy and vibrant sound with iconic guitar riffs and piano solos — Haynes starts off strong by showcasing his talents as a vocalist in this track. You are bound to be amazed by the clear yet raspy, soft yet rough sound of Haynes’s voice. Following “Blues Before Sunrise” is the soulful track “Hole In My Soul.” This song is an honest look into the theme of heartbreak, an amalgamation of jazz, blues, and rock all in one. Haynes slows down in this track for a sensual vocal experience.

Later in the album is the rendition of “Snatch It Back and Hold It.” On their version of the Junior Wells song, the band covered the classic track while sandwiching a spontaneous original jam called “Hold It Back” in the middle for a soulful, stirring interpretation. No matter if you’re in your car, at work, or sitting on the couch at home, you be unable to hold back from vibing along to the jazzy sound. With smooth transitions, long instrumental solos, and an original sound, the 8-minute track will fly by seamlessly.

“Make It Rain,” which just recently got its own animated music video, is a sensual track containing a groovy vibe that will make you sway to the beat. There is something about this song that makes it stand out from the other tracks on the album as an instant hit. The music industry agrees. The scuzzy blues-rock arrangement of Tom Waits’s song has been featured on Spotify’s Blues on the Rocks and In The Name of the Blues [recently taken over by Jon Bonamassa] along with Apple Music’s New In Rock playlists.

The original track “Heavy Load” comes as an ominous acoustic blues number that takes the cake by being the track that the album is named after. This track is highlighted by Haynes’s mournful vocal and supple yet deliberate riffing, has been featured on a variety of playlists including Spotify’s Backporch Blues, Morning Blues, Acoustic Blues, Blues & Roots Rock, and The Pulse of Americana as well as Apple Music’s Roadhouse. This song features an original acoustic sound, accompanied by delicious lyrics and head-nodding guitar strumming.

Heavy Load Blues ends with “Black Horizon.” Gov’t Mule finishes strong with an iconic track that perfectly encapsulates the sound and vibe of the album. As the album comes to its conclusion with Haynes singing about coming to the end of his own journey, you’ll close your eyes, satisfied with the amazing album you just heard. But despite your closed eyes and at-peace feeling, you’ll still be nodding along to the beat – this track isn’t any less interesting and groovy than the others.

TICKETS│WEBSITE│INSTAGRAM│TWITTER

Gov’t Mule consists of: Warren Haynes, Matt Abts [drums], Danny Louis [keyboards, guitar, and backing vocals], and Jorgen Carlsson [bass].