Warren Haynes Brings His Million Voices Whisper Tour To The Mahaffey Theater
St. Petersburg, FL. (September 22, 2024)
On a balmy evening in St. Petersburg, the Mahaffey Theater came alive with the unmistakable sounds of Warren Haynes and his all-star lineup, gearing up for the release of his highly anticipated album Million Voices Whisper. With a powerhouse ensemble that included the legendary John Medeski on keys, Gov’t Mule bassist Kevin Scott, Grammy-winning Terence Higgins on drums, and dynamic Greg Osby on sax, the night promised an exhilarating blend of blues, rock, and improvisational magic.
The evening kicked off with an electrifying jam session that set the mood, showcasing the exceptional synergy among the musicians. Haynes then seamlessly transitioned into “Tear Me Down,” a cover from his Gov’t Mule days, instantly captivating the audience. He followed with “Go Down Swinging,” a fresh track from Million Voices Whisper that highlighted his continued evolution as an artist while keeping the crowd engaged with its infectious groove.
The first set was a powerhouse display of bluesy rock, featuring standouts like “A Friend to You” and “Power and the Glory.” Each song was delivered with Haynes’ signature guitar work and emotive vocals, supported by tight rhythms and expressive solos from the band. Tracks like “Terrified” and “Man in Motion” showcased the group’s dynamic range, blending intricate melodies with powerful crescendos, leaving the audience craving more.
After a brief intermission, the second set began with the ambitious “Lies, Lies, Lies > Monkey Dance > Lies, Lies, Lies,” an impressive nearly ten-minute exploration that featured stunning solos from each band member. This segment highlighted the group’s versatility and virtuosity, with each musician contributing to a rich and layered sound.
The energy continued to soar with “Till The Sun Comes Shining Through” and an exhilarating cover of Jimi Hendrix’s “Spanish Castle Magic,” where Haynes’ guitar work paid homage to Hendrix while establishing his own identity. “A Change Is Gonna Come” brought a soulful moment to the set, touching the audience profoundly. The surprisingly cool rendition of Steely Dan’s “Pretzel Logic” further showcased the band’s jazz-inflected rock flair.
As the second set drew to a close, the audience erupted in applause for “Thorazine Shuffle,” a fan favorite from Gov’t Mule that had everyone dancing and singing along.
For the encore, Haynes delivered “This Life As We Know It,” another gem from Million Voices Whisper, before saving the best for last with “Soulshine,” a poignant classic from his time with the Allman Brothers. This heartfelt performance struck a chord with fans, providing a perfect conclusion to an incredible night.
Warren Haynes and his all-star band not only previewed exciting new material but also celebrated a rich musical legacy that continues to captivate. The Mahaffey Theater transformed into a sanctuary for music lovers, and as the final notes echoed, it was clear that this concert would be remembered as a standout event of the season. With Million Voices Whisper on the horizon, fans are eagerly anticipating what this legendary guitarist will bring next.
Warren Haynes:
Mahaffey Theater: