2024/05/18 – The Black Crowes – The Civic Hall, Wolverhampton

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Review & Photos: G. Rossington

The Black Crowes delivered an electrifying performance at Wolverhampton Civic Hall on May 18, 2024, showcasing their timeless appeal and musical prowess. The band, led by brothers Chris and Rich Robinson, kicked off the evening with two tracks from their latest album, “Happiness Bastards,” setting the tone for a night of dynamic rock and roll. Opening with “Bedside Manners,” a country rocker that immediately engaged the audience, followed by the hard-hitting “Rats and Clowns,” they quickly demonstrated why their new album is considered one of their best since the ’90s.

The setlist was a well-curated mix of new material and classic hits, ensuring fans both old and new were thoroughly entertained. Highlights included a powerful rendition of “Twice As Hard” and a raucous cover of Bo Diddley’s “Roadrunner,” which saw Chris Robinson humorously engaging with the crowd. The band’s chemistry was palpable, especially during extended jams like “Thorn In My Pride,” where Chris’s harmonica playing shone brightly. The crowd’s reaction to these songs was nothing short of ecstatic, with many fans singing along and dancing throughout the night.

The Robinson brothers appeared to have put their past feuds behind them, performing with a sense of camaraderie and joy. Their interaction with the audience was both entertaining and heartfelt, with Chris addressing a disruptive fan and Rich humorously responding to another who threw a CD on stage. The show culminated in an energetic encore with Rev Charlie Jackson’s “God’s Got It,” leaving the audience in awe of their raw talent and stage presence. This concert reaffirmed The Black Crowes’ status as rock legends, and fans can only hope it’s not too long before they return.

Supporting act Jim Jones All Stars opened the night with an impressive set that perfectly set the stage for the main act. Their energetic performance featured standout tracks like “Aldecide” and “Gimme the Grease,” which warmed up the crowd and created a buzz of anticipation for The Black Crowes. The choice of Jim Jones All Stars as the opening act proved to be a wise one, as their bluesy rock sound complemented the headliners perfectly.

Throughout the night, the stage setup added to the nostalgic and authentic rock and roll experience. Vintage amplifiers and a large, illuminated mirror behind Chris Robinson created a visual throwback to classic rock shows of the ’60s and ’70s. This attention to detail in the stage design underscored the band’s commitment to delivering not just a concert, but a full sensory experience for their fans.

The band’s performance was further elevated by their impeccable musicianship. Rich Robinson’s guitar work was a standout, his solos blending seamlessly with the band’s rhythm section. Longtime bassist Sven Pipien and drummer Brian Griffin provided a solid backbone to the band’s sound, while keyboardist Joel Robinow and backing vocalists Mackenzie Adams and Leslie Grant added depth and richness to the overall performance. The cohesion and synergy among the band members were evident, making each song resonate with the audience.

As part of their 35-city tour across North America and Europe, this concert in Wolverhampton marked the end of the UK leg, following performances in Manchester, London, and Newcastle. The band’s energy and enthusiasm never waned, showcasing their dedication to delivering top-tier performances night after night. This tour, promoting their first album in 15 years, has been a significant milestone for the band, both in terms of reconnecting with their fanbase and introducing their new music.

Chris Robinson’s stage presence was particularly notable, channeling rock icons like Rod Stewart and Mick Jagger with his energetic and charismatic performance style. His ability to engage with the audience, whether through playful banter or heartfelt interactions, added a personal touch to the concert. The band’s performance of “Wilted Rose,” a duet with Grammy-nominated country star Lainey Wilson on the album, showcased their versatility and ability to blend different musical genres seamlessly.

The Black Crowes’ concert at Wolverhampton Civic Hall was a triumphant return for the band, filled with memorable moments and outstanding musical performances. The mix of classic hits, new material, and engaging stage presence created an unforgettable experience for all in attendance. As the band continues their tour across Europe, fans can look forward to more nights of raw, unfiltered rock and roll from one of the genre’s most enduring acts.