(4.5 stars) AMERICA'S MOST UNDERAPPRECIATED ROCK N' ROLL BAN
ol' nuff n' den sum | the Virginia coast, USA | 04/22/2009
(5 out of 5 stars)
"While being completely misunderstood by rock music fans and casually dismissed by critics, The Black Crowes managed to produce some high-quality rock n' roll in the 1990s. Sure, they heavily borrow their inspiration from The Rolling Stones and Faces-era Rod Stewart (not to mention Humble Pie, James Brown, Aretha Franklin and Otis Redding); but while band founders (and brothers) Chris and Rich Robinson may not be as talented as their legendary idols, when it comes to paying tribute in rock to the southern black (and white) blues/soul/country artists that influenced Jagger and Stewart, the Georgia-based Black Crowes usually more accurately and reverently hit the nail on the head, and without all of that British sarcasm. So, say what you will about The Black Crowes, but I like this band!
The Black Crowes - Greatest Hits 1990-1999: A Tribute to a Work in Progress (2000) features sixteen digitally remastered songs in chronological order, most of which even casual fans will recognize from AOR radio; the rocking Jealous Again, the sorrowful She Talks To Angels, the soulful Remedy, the gospel-tinged Thorn In My Pride, their energetic hit cover of the Otis Redding classic Hard To Handle, and more.
This compilation is a worthwhile venture for casual fans or for the Black Crowes faithful who want remastered versions of these songs or need to fill gaps of missing songs in their BC collections. The song selection here is solid, and this high-energy and soulful rock n' roll can really get you up and shakin' what you've got. The Black Crowes may never be the world's greatest rock n' roll band, but it's not for the lack of effort. These guys always put 110% into every song!
I will not forgive you
Nor will I accept the blame
I will see you on Good Friday
"