Gov't Mule
While Gov't Mule is spearheaded by ex-Allman Brothers Warren Haynes and Allen Woody, this isn't so much a "jam band" as a power trio. Cream, Mountain, and the Jimi Hendrix Experience provide more accurate points of reference than the Grateful Dead. Not that Gov't Mule isn't interested in improvisational probing. For example, "Trane" explores John Coltrane by way of the Mahavishnu Orchestra. This debut displays a high level of communication, cohesion, and musicianship, indicating this Mule can handle a considerable workload.--Richard Gowen