If you've ever wondered what it would be like if Slint and R.L. Burnside had a battle of wits to see who could best cover their favorite Black Flag moments,
Mule will slide down your throat like well-preserved wine. You simply can't fault
P.W. Long and crew for their mixture of potent post-rock ability and deep-fried Southern blues, if for no other reason than simple chutzpah. Still, there's something missing in
If I Don't Six. Since
Mule have toned down their songwriting approach, despite a return of
Steve Albini's unique, naked production, the old rigor and strength are absent in lieu of a febrile imagination of underground indie rock rigging. It's crash and burn only two albums in, and it was understandable that
Long refused to let
Mule's career continue on from here. ~ Dean Carlson