On Friday, August 18, guests at the Leader Bank Pavilion in Boston, Massachusetts, witnessed a remarkable and unforgettable concert by Gov’t Mule on their Dark Side of the Mule Tour. The concert had a dual purpose, not only to perform music by Pink Floyd but also to treat the band’s fans to some of their favorite Mule tunes along with new ones including “Shake Our Way Out” and “Peace I Need” from their recently released new album, Peace… Like a River. Alongside Warren Haynes (guitar/vox), Gov’t Mule features Matt Abts (drums), Danny Louis (keys), and Kevin Scott (bass) replacing the recently departed Jorgen Carlsson.

After the first set of original songs wrapped that featured such Mule regular original workouts (“Thorazine Shuffle”, “Temporary Saint”, “Larger Than Life), Haynes & Co welcomed guitarist Jackie Greene, saxophonist Ron Holloway and backing vocalists Sophia Ramos and Machan Taylor to the stage. The formidable crew was fully committed to capturing the essence of Pink Floyd’s ‘Dark Side of the Moon’. The band’s flawless execution of each track showcased their exceptional musicianship and attention to detail. Warren Haynes’ guitar skills shone through, adding a new dimension to the already iconic guitar solos of the original album. His vocals were equally mesmerizing, capturing the emotional depth and complexity of Pink Floyd’s lyrics with grace and authenticity.

The band’s decision to pay tribute to Pink Floyd’s iconic album, ‘Dark Side of the Moon’, was a bold move that left the audience in awe. The band delivered a performance that was both faithful to the original material and infused with their signature rock-blues sound, making it a night to remember for fans of both bands. The venue itself, the Leader Bank Pavilion, provided the perfect setting for the concert. The open-air atmosphere allowed the music to soar and reach every corner of the audience, enhancing the overall experience. The stage production was nothing short of spectacular, incorporating stunning visuals, lighting effects, and carefully crafted set designs that complemented the psychedelic nature of Pink Floyd’s music.

As the night progressed, Govt’ Mule seamlessly weaved in their own unique style, giving the tribute a refreshing twist while maintaining the integrity of the original song. The band’s chemistry on stage was evident, and their enthusiasm was contagious, captivating the crowd and drawing them into the music. Highlights included the Mule’s take on “Shine On You Crazy Diamond”, “Breathe”, “Fearless” and undoubtedly their rendition of “Comfortably Numb.” Warren Haynes’ emotional and soulful delivery, coupled with pinpoint backing vocals and instrumental accompaniment, brought an ethereal quality to the performance.
Photos by Marc Lacatell
























