The Deep End, Vol. 1 by Gov't Mule (CD, Oct-2001, 2 Discs, ATO Records USA)

The Deep End, vols. 1 & 2 are flat out my favorite cd's by this Southern Rock inspired jam band. With the untimely death (due to drug overdose) of their bassist Allen Woody the remaining members of Mule pulled together an all-star list of bassists like Flea, Jack Bruce, Roger Glover, John Entwistle, Bootsy Collins to sit in. Also other big time names like Gregg Allman, Jerry Cantrell and Derek Trucks add to this awesome line-up and lend to this material a very jam oriented, very rhythmic, very lyrically sound production that takes Mule to new heights. I highly recommend you buy this cd and if your a Mule fan its an absolute must own!

I bought this CD after watching a documentary made of the recording sessions. The band pays tribute to their bassist who ODed by inviting many of his hero and mentor bassists to perform on individual tracks. I was moved by the respect and admiration shown Woody and his legacy, and the calibur of guest bassists who joined in. A couple of the tracks are superb and some I have to be in the mood. It is a very high quality effort.

I don't know anything about this group. I had never heard of them before my friend mentioned them to me. I looked the CD up on half.com and saw it and purchased it for him for Christmas. He loves it and plays it all the time. it was a great find.