Warren Haynes: Million Voices Whisper Review
Grammy-winning, guitar-slinging blues rocker Warren Haynes is back, and he’s brought the spirit of his heroes along for the ride. Million Voices Whisper, Haynes’ first solo album in almost a decade, captures both his blues rock roots and his drive to explore fresh sounds with an all-star cast of guests.
A legendary blues rock act, Haynes is celebrated for his iconic work with Gov’t Mule and the Allman Brothers Band, in addition to his equally commendable solo output. With a decades-long career, Haynes’ music combines emotional depth, brilliant songwriting and genre-crossing artistry, solidifying his place as a leading force in American rock and blues.
With a superb band—John Medeski on keys, Terence Higgins on drums, and Kevin Scott on bass—Haynes crafts an 11-track set that balances blues, rock and funk with the warmth of soul. Haynes is also joined by Derek Trucks, Lukas Nelson, and Jamey Johnson on several tracks, adding a familiar depth and strength to the music.
The record opens with “These Changes”. Co-written with Derek Trucks, it’s a breezy, gentle track that harkens back to the duo’s tenure with the Allman Brothers, complete with great organ work and a simply gorgeous lead guitar duel.
The horn-fueled “Go Down Swinging” is a soul-oriented piece that is sure to keep things interesting, while the slow-burning “This Life As We Know It” impresses for its joyous catchiness and sunny feel-good vibes.
Featuring Lukas Nelson and Jamey Johnson, “Day Of Reckoning” is a country-tinged blues rocker with an extraordinarily catchy chorus and more superb guitar work. It’s the album’s finest moment and certainly one of the best in Haynes’ solo career.
Once again featuring Trucks, there’s also an emotionally charged ballad on offer with “Real, Real Love,” which Haynes finished in tribute to his former bandmate and close friend Gregg Allman. It’s a truly beautiful and heartfelt piece whose emotional weight is certain to touch any listener who still has a soul.
Finally, the funky, groove-heavy numbers “Terrified” and “Hall Of Future Saints”, with their tasteful dynamics and blazing guitar work, conclude the record on the strongest of notes.
The album has Haynes at his finest, blending a rich array of styles from country-tinged blues rock to poignant ballads, with touches of funk, soul and R&B. Much of the record’s strength lies in its versatility, with each track offering something unique yet unmistakably Haynes. On top of that, the guitarist remains a stellar songwriter, which results in compositions that are textured and elaborate as they are moving.
In short, Million Voices Whisper is an essential addition to Warren Haynes’ storied catalog, and proves once again that his voice in blues rock remains as vital and heartfelt as ever.
The Review: 8.5/10
Can’t Miss Tracks
– These Changes
– Go Down Swinging
– This Life As We Know It
– Real, Real Love
– The Hall Of Future Saints
The Big Hit
– Day Of Reckoning
I highly anticipate listening to “Million Voices Whisper” in its entirety.
Pretty much everything Warren Haynes records or performs is far above and beyond most of his contemporaries, however, I absolutely love the song “Soulshine” – There is a great rendition on The Allman Brothers’ “2nd Set- An Evening With The Allman Brothers Band” (1995).
I was fortunate to see Warren Haynes perform “Soulshine” live with The Allman Brothers, and on
another occasion, with Gov’t Mule.
I already instructed one of my nephews that I wanted “Soulshine” included on my playlist, at my memorial service, whenever that time should come. (Hopefully not for a long while yet).