Guest Book

Here's a nice review of Warren's new album from the Buffalo News... 3 1/2 stars We already know that Warren Haynes is one of the finest electric guitar soloists going. His work with the Allman Brothers Band, the Dead and his own Gov't Mule has assured Haynes a slot in the hall of six-string legends. Haynes can blow with the best of them. But "Man in Motion," his new solo album, reveals a side of Haynes that may surprise some. It's an album of killer R&B and Stax-style soul songs that is centered on his eminently soulful singing. No overtly lengthy jams, no Cream-style power-trio workouts -- just serious Memphis sounds, tracked with the help of such luminaries as George Porter Jr., Ian McLagan, Ruthie Foster and Ivan Neville, among others. Don't fret, jam-lovers -- it's not like Haynes doesn't solo here. He does, often and well, opener "Man in Motion" being only the first example of many. It's just that the groove is never sacrificed in the process. Haynes and Co. tracked the album live, inside Willie Nelson's Pedernales Studios, and that in-the-room vibe is certainly a plus. It's Haynes' songwriting and singing, though, that carry the day for the most part -- even if the ensemble playing is often downright exquisite. The man who penned "Soulshine" for the Allman Brothers Band has delivered a handful of emotion-soaked soul burners in that mode here. "A Friend To You" is a shining example of this ballad-based aspect of Haynes' writing. Haynes has also proven himself to have a more supple, funkier side to his musicianship than one might have imagined. Spontaneous, sometimes playful, and always soulful, "Man in Motion" is a welcome addition to the already considerable Haynes oeuvre.