I have had this album for a number of years and listened to it start to finish for the first time this past weekend. Once again I am kicking myself for having such an incredible set or songs for so long and never really listened to it. I had listened to a song off of it here or there, put one or two tracks on a play list but never pushed play and let it go.
One thing that is unique about The Black Crowes (TBC) is that both their live and studio albums are pieces of musical art. There are a lot of bands that are amazing live and then when they go into the studio it’s like they’re not sure what is suppose to happen. With TBC every song on every album is there for a reason and each one is honest. These guys are not into manufacturing hits, they are into weaving a blanket of musical art and positive expression; so when they release a live album with songs that span their entire catalog you can bet that it will be intense.
The album was recorded at the Orpheum in Boston, MA on October 30 & 31, 2001. It also happens to be the last two shows before the band went on "hiatus" for a few years. If you don’t know about the history and tumultuous relationships with in the band I would recommend looking into it…fascinating story(s) to be found. While TBC are not categorized as a “jam band” they play very well in the same sandbox as a lot of those bands. They have a monstrous following and are known for their live performances. While they don’t typically jam from one song into another, they do not bind themselves to the way songs were originally recorded giving way to a great free-form experience.
As mentioned one the main highlight of this album IS the album. TBC didn’t pick from a list of shows to see what songs would sell best, these are the songs played at these shows and the list spans their entire career. Audley Freed is still on second guitar for this album which is a treat in and of itself. His skill is uncanny and fits very well with the vibe and style of the other members of TBC. The musicianship and style of TBC makes for a naturally high energy show, even the “slow” songs grab you and take you for a ride.
You can also find many more live shows of TBC on http://www.liveblackcrowes.com/
and I hope to have some of these to share in the future.
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