Deep End 1
The first of a two-volume set,The Deep Endstands 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'sJack  Bruce,Bootsy  Collins, the Who'sJohn  Entwistle, Flea of the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Deep Purple'sRoger Glover, andLarry Grahamof Graham  Central Station are among those lending a hand--and there are hints of an  equally impressive guest roster forVol. 2.Gov't Mule elected to continue as a four-piece with the addition of a full-time keyboardist, and the material onThe Deep Endserves 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 classicSantana-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