Question for Mark Van Allen

[Bart Maloney]

Just a quick question for you. I read somewhere that you played pedal steel with Gov't Mule at the Roxy in Atlanta in 99' i think. I sent you an e-mail about this once. I was curious if that was you playing on 'Simple Man?"

[Bart Maloney]

Shootin this one back up to the top.

[Bart Maloney]

bump

[Mark van Allen]

Hi, Bart, sorry I didn't see your question right away. Yes, that's me on Simple Man, where did you hear that cut? I was playing with Blueground Undergrass and we opened for Government Mule on that show (and others). Warren asked Johnny and I to sit in on an extensive Jam during the Mule set, which was a lot of fun, but then he also asked me to sit in on their encore set, and gave over a whole lot of stage and solo time to me. That's one of the most gracious things I've ever experienced on stage, here's a Monster guitarist with a top--draw rock band headlining a sold out New Year's Eve show, and he lets a steel player from his opening act have the spotlight on the whole encore set. Class and kindness, and a fun night for me! I think there's a pic or two on my website. Another thing I'll never forget about that gig- Allen Woody was of course still alive, and his bass was so loud that it created a little dust-devil kind of whirlwind backstage, about three feet tall. Whenever he'd stop playing, the dust and papers would settle to the floor, but whenever he'd kick back in, the little whirlwind would start up and spin around the backstage area. I've never seen anything like that before or since. Great memories!

------------------
Stop by the Steel Store at: www.markvanallen.com

[Bart Maloney]

Thanks for the response Mark and the great story. I wanted to tell you that your solo on there is by far the Greatest thing I have ever heard in my life. No doubt. I can't tell you how many times I have sat there and listened to your solo. as soon as it was over, i'd play it again. and again and agian. That solo just blows my mind. If I could hear one solo for the rest of my life, it would be yours on 'Simple Man.' I downloaded it a few years back, don't even remember where. I have listened to the Mule for a few years now and love them. I am also one of the biggest Skynyrd fans you will ever find. You and the Mule should have a whole cd together. If you want a copy I can get you one. I just wanted to let you know that you created a monster in me with that solo. It is the reason I am addicted to Pedal Steel. I am only 21 though. Thanks a Million Mark. You are just incredible on that string-a-ma-bober. Everyone Needs to hear his solo on this song!!!!!!!!

[Chris Forbes]

Man, I miss Allen Woody, since both of us are bass players and huge closet Mel Schacher fans, we had a great conversation after a show here in D.C. after we opened for them. We talked about Grand Funk for about 1/2 an hour. Oops!!! maybe I shouldn't have admitted that I listen to them on this forum!!! Please don't throw things at me, I also worship Merle!!!!!

[David Cutter]

Mark
I was listening to Netscape radio a few days ago and heard Blueground Undergrass ,”Farewell To Lemmings” on the Live at the Variety Playhouse Album. I was listening to jam bands and don’t think I have ever heard them on the radio before.
David

[Mark van Allen]

Bart, what a kind post! Thanks- I started playing myself at 21 after hearing Buddy E. playing Wichita Lineman on the "Suite Steel" album- I just had to try to make that sound. After playing a year or so, I was at a club one night just butchering my poor Maverick, and was really considering quitting. I went outside and heard some great playing on the radio, and I thought, If there's just one chance I can touch somebody someday the way this music touches me, I can't give up... so your post really makes my day. I'd love a copy of the tune- I don't think I'd ever played it before their show and I remember just having a good time trading licks with Warren. He can sure lay it down!

[Henry Nagle]

I'd kinda like to hear that too. That was quite an endorsement!