Supporting Act: JASON BONHAM’S LED ZEPPELIN EVENING
Venue: Ruoff Music Center 08-03-23
GOV'T MULE - DARK SIDE OF THE MULE at Ruoff Music Center 08-03-2023 ©JohnGeiger
Since 1994, Gov't Mule has established itself as a fundamental presence at music festivals throughout North America. The band's musical composition infuses diverse blues rock, southern rock, funk, and jam band components into their musical repertoire, and the night of August 3rd proved to be an exceptional evening.
The opening act, "Jason Bonham's Led Zeppelin Evening" was an electrifying experience that brought the timeless music of Led Zeppelin back to life and captured the essence and spirit of the iconic band.
Jason Bonham of JASON BONHAM’S LED ZEPPELIN EVENING at Ruoff Music Center 08-03-2023 ©JohnGeiger
Son of the legendary late Led Zeppelin drummer Jon Bonham, Jason's incredible drumming skills were tightly intertwined with bassist Dorian Heartsong, combined with Jimmy Sakurai on Guitar and an amazing vocalist James Dylan who hit all of the notes.
James Dylan of JASON BONHAM’S LED ZEPPELIN EVENING at Ruoff Music Center 08-03-2023 ©JohnGeiger
The performance was a nostalgic journey through Led Zeppelin's greatest hits, leaving the audience cheering and singing along. If you're a fan of classic rock or just appreciate great music, this show is a must-see for an unforgettable night of rock 'n' roll magic for their upcoming concerts.
Warren Haynes of GOV’T MULE at Ruoff Music Center 08-03-2023 ©JohnGeiger
Around 8 pm, Gov’t Mule started their set with a six-pack of original songs showcasing the bad-ass guitar skills of Warren Haynes who had been an integral member of The Allman Brothers Band beginning in 1989.
Haynes is not only a recipient of a GRAMMY Award but also stands as a distinguished songwriter, vocalist, critically revered guitarist, and accomplished producer. The experience of witnessing someone I hold in high personal regard as a guitar hero performing just mere feet away was an absolute delight for me. Hopefully, I learned something from watching him play.
Warren Haynes of GOV’T MULE at Ruoff Music Center 08-03-2023 ©JohnGeiger
Gov't Mule originated as a supplementary endeavor of guitarist Haynes and late bassist Allen Woody from the Allman Brothers Band. Currently, the band consists of Matt Abts on drums, Danny Louis on keys, and an amazing bassist Kevin Scott, and fans often refer to them simply as Mule.
Warren Haynes of GOV’T MULE at Ruoff Music Center 08-03-2023 ©JohnGeiger
Each Gov't Mule performance stands alone, as the band taps into their extensive repertoire of over 300 songs (often accompanied by a variety of special guests), crafting an unparalleled experience on every occasion and this evening was no exception.
As the sun began to set at Deer Creek,… I mean Ruoff, the band's fearless approach to covering Pink Floyd's iconic album "The Dark Side of the Moon" was nothing short of spectacular.
GOV'T MULE - DARK SIDE OF THE MULE at Ruoff Music Center 08-03-2023 ©JohnGeiger
Their unique interpretation breathed new life into the classic tracks while staying true to the original's essence. The added improvisational elements showcased the band's musical prowess and ability to make each song unique.
Instead of literal film interpretations on a screen, the mesmerizing laser light show created an immersive atmosphere, making it feel much more inclusive.
But the real magic of "Dark Side of the Mule" was how they managed to pay homage to Pink Floyd while injecting their own creativity.
“The Great Gig in the Sky”, is a great song on the original Floyd album, but Mule’s rendition hit it out of the park due to the extraordinary ability of backing vocals of Machan Taylor and Sophia Ramos. The audience was up on their feet and I actually had goosebumps listening to those two amazing women sing.
GOV'T MULE - DARK SIDE OF THE MULE at Ruoff Music Center 08-03-2023 ©JohnGeiger
The encore, “Wish You Were Here” started at 10:49 and lasted 10 minutes. The venue has a strict 11 pm County Curfew so the show was over at 10:59 pm. I have no doubt they would have played longer.
With 2023 marking the 50th anniversary of Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon, Mule has previously performed it live only 10 times!
For fans of either Pink Floyd or Gov't Mule, this concert was a true gem. It was a celebration of musical craftsmanship, a blending of eras, and a testament to the timelessness of great music. "Dark Side of the Mule" wasn't just a cover show. It was a transformative encounter that happens when musical legends collide.
GOV'T MULE - DARK SIDE OF THE MULE
Ruoff Music Center 08-03-23
Bad Little Doggie
Blind Man in the Dark
About to Rage
Thorazine Shuffle
Made My Peace
Same as It Ever Was
Shine On You Crazy Diamond (Parts I-V) (Pink Floyd cover)
Have a Cigar (Pink Floyd cover)
Welcome to the Machine (Pink Floyd cover)
Speak to Me (Pink Floyd cover)
Breathe (Pink Floyd cover)
On the Run (Pink Floyd cover)
Time (Pink Floyd cover)
Breathe (Reprise) (Pink Floyd cover)
The Great Gig in the Sky (Pink Floyd cover)
Money (Pink Floyd cover)
One of These Days (Pink Floyd cover)
Fearless (Pink Floyd cover)
Echoes