Today, Warren Haynes officially released a collaborative album with Railroad Earth: Ashes & Dust.
The two come together to perform thirteen songs that range from high energy bluegrass to slow brewing ballads and jammy rock. Mandolin, fiddle, banjo, upright bass, and drums supplement Warren's skillful acoustic and electric guitar playing and warm vocal deliveries.
What makes these songs stand out is that each has a personality of its own and no two sound alike. "Blue Maiden's Tale" has a Renaissance feel, while "Stranded in Self-Pity" is like a cross between The Beatles and J.J. Cale. "Glory Road" is a soft ballad, and their cover of Fleetwood Mac's "Gold Dust Woman" is highlighted by guest vocals from Grace Potter. "Beat Down The Dust" is a percussion heavy tune, while "Coal Tattoo" and "Wanderlust" contain Warren's sweet slide guitar riffs.
Railroad Earth's fingerprints are heavy on "Spots Of Time," which was co-written by Grateful Dead bassist Phil Lesh. The song has an organic feel and lets the band and Warren flex their jam muscles over the course of the 8+ minute song. Closing out Ashes & Dust is an uplifting "Word On The Wind," strengthened by great mandolin fills and soaring vocals.
The deluxe edition contains four demo tracks of songs found on the regular album version and a live version of "Hallelujuh Boulevard" recorded in 2008.
Recommended tracks include "Is It Me Or You," "Blue Maiden's Tale," and "Spots Of Time."
You can pick up Ashes & Dust on Amazon (Vinyl, CD, MP3). Stream the full deluxe edition album above via Spotify, where you can also listen to a track-by-track commentary.
Haynes and Railroad Earth kicked off their joint tour last night in New York City where they played songs from the new album as well as a few Gov't Mule tunes. For more tour date information, as well as the latest music and news from Warren Haynes, check out his Zumic artist page.
