This wasn't a show that I originally intended to attend. Most people know I plan my concerts months ahead of time usually. However, changes in my life allowed me the opportunity to see Warren Haynes showcase his new album in the city that always feels like home for me. I had reconnected with my friend Steve from Wicker Park. We've seen a lot of good shows together. I was fairly apathetic about the new Gov't Mule, Shout. The harvest was in full swing in Illinois as I drove into Chicago during the afternoon.
We hung out at Steve's apartment listening to some Furthur and rewatched the Iowa State - Texas debacle from the night before. For dinner we ordered Lou Malnati's. We parked by the hospital and made the short walk to the Vic. Upon arrival it was clear that it was far from being sold out. It was nice to have some room. The only negative of the night was the buffoonery from a couple drunken delta bravos. They were playing some Dr. John on the PA system preshow. World Boss got things going. The next three songs were all off the previous album, By A Thread. I was impressed with Whisper to My Soul in the live setting. Temporary Saint was a nice older Mule tune. Railroad Boy was another tune from the By A Thread album. Beautifully Broken was straightforward sans the When Doves Cry. Funny Little Tragedy is a tune from Shout that I really enjoy.
Mule took the stage to Journey "Anytime" for set two. This set featured the new material prominently. Scared to Live in another new tune that I really like. Larger Than Life from the Dose album anchored the second set. Slackjaw had more energy that usual. There was a brief Drums by Matt Abts before they played their new Dark Side of the Moon rip-off Captured. I think Effigy with Folsom Prison Blues jam was probably the highlight of the night. Warren really shredded the hell out of that. By the time they finished the set with I'm A Ram I was ready to hit the road. I enjoy Gov't Mule but obviously it's extremely one dimensional blues rock. The double encore, both covers, sent the crowd off into night. The latter of which, Cortez the Killer, was with the guitar player from the forgettable opener The London Souls. This show was a fun experience when I needed one.
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