The Black Crowes brought their long-haired, hippy-inspired, blues-based rock to the Western New York area this past Saturday night to an appreciative crowd numbering around 1,600. Original members Chris (vocals) and Rich (guitar) Robinson and Steve Gorman (drums) were accompanied by Adam McDougall (keyboards), Sven Pipien (bass) and Luther Dickinson (guitar.)
The band, that is now more of a jam band, is on tour in support of their latest offering Croweology. Incense was lit and soon after the band walked on stage to kick into Good Morning Captain. Chris Robinson wasnt privy to the hotels intense security and began making comments and giving them the finger for blocking the fans from gathering in the front of the stage. Regardless of securitys actions, it didnt take away from the fans enjoyment of the nights music.
Both guitarists traded slide licks on Ballad in Urgency. Guitarist Luther Dickinson, who also plays in the North Mississippi All-Stars, was the highlight of the evenings performance. He showed why he is such an integral part of the Black Crowes sound and vibe on songs like Lady of Avenue A and My Morning Song. The Robinson brothers traded vocals and shared harmonies on Wiser Time. Chris Robinson donned the guitar for Wee Who See the Deep. Joe Magistro helped by playing bongos and tambourines throughout and also banged the skins during Steves drum solo. Chris cranked out the harmonica for the end of Thorn in my Pride. Remedy was the encore and a treat to see performed live.
The band did extend most of the evenings numbers with impromptu jams and still were able to keep most of the fans attention while doing so. A hiatus is on the horizon for the Crowes after they complete this tour so you better go see them before its too late.
Set List:
Good Morning Captain
Hotel Illness
Jealous Again
Ballad in Urgency
Wiser Time
Lady of Avenue A
Paint an 8
Wee Who See the Deep
Thorn in my Pride/Drum Solo
She Talks to Angels
My Morning Song
Encore:
Remedy
We would like to thank Tony Astran of the Seneca Allegany Casino for allowing BackstageAxxess to review the show.
