Gov't Mule

Not just a video documentary recording the making of Gov't Mule's first post-Allen Woody albums, The Deep End, Vol. I and Vol. II, Rising Low is a film about the theoretical and physical joys of playing bass and making music in general. Created by Phish bassist Mike Gordon, who also provides commentary on a second audio track, this project is a true labor of love from all involved. The film pays tribute to Woody's life with reminiscences from friends and family, including archival footage of him offstage as well as from various videos. Additionally, the nearly two dozen bass players, who played on a track apiece, are not only shown working with the remaining two/thirds of Gov't Mule (guitarist Warren Haynes and drummer Matt Abts), but waxing philosophical about the instrument and its position in a band, both during the course of the film and in brief two to five minute solo sketches included as one of the disc's bonuses. Gordon, who also adds observations, juggles these balls effectively, with the resulting documentary a must-see for all bass players. In fact, any musician will find inspiration here, since the spiritual side of playing is just as much an aspect of this movie as the creation of the Deep End albums are. There is a fond camaraderie throughout, not only among the bassists (most of whom don't interact with each other, yet share a common respect), but also between Gov't Mule and the other musicians. From funky bottom-men Larry Graham, Flea, and Bootsy Collins, to rockers John Entwistle, Jack Bruce and Jack Casady, jazzers Alphonso Johnson and Chris Wood to Me'Shell Ndege'Ocello (the lone female four-stringer), and the cracked philosophy of Mike Watt, make this video not only a worthy primer on great living bassists (Entwistle passed shortly before the release date), but an intriguing and captivating film on the ideas and motivation behind creating music. The sadder underlying message is how the road can destroy even the most well-adjusted and talented musicians. But ultimately the movie is a sober yet exuberant portrait of Gov't Mule. It shows how they have come to grips with the loss of their founding member and continue to perform, looking ahead while honoring their comrade and friend. ~ Hal Horowitz, All Music Guide