Tonight’s All Things Considered Live on Jamfest will feature a standout performance by The Black Crowes from the Newport Folk Festival, held on August 2, 2008. This live set is a shining example of the band’s ability to merge rock, blues, and folk influences into a powerful and unforgettable musical experience.
Performance Overview
The setlist from this iconic performance is a testament to The Black Crowes’ versatility and mastery over their craft. Here’s a look at the highlights:
- Girl From The North Country (0:00): The set begins with a soulful cover of Bob Dylan’s classic. Chris Robinson’s emotive vocals paired with the band’s acoustic instrumentation set a nostalgic and reflective mood.
- He Was A Friend Of Mine (4:47): This traditional folk song allows the band to showcase their harmonies and roots-oriented musical style, emphasizing their deep connection to folk traditions.
- Whoa Mule (9:25): A blues-infused track that demonstrates The Black Crowes’ ability to groove and build momentum. This song showcases their knack for blending blues with rock energy.
- Polly (16:03): This heartfelt ballad highlights the band’s acoustic arrangements and lyrical depth, providing a moment of introspection in the set.
- Poor Elijah – Tribute To Johnson (Medley) (21:14): A medley that pays homage to Delaney and Bonnie Bramlett, showcasing the band’s blues-rock influences and dynamic instrumentation.
- Wiser Time (27:27): A fan favorite known for its extended guitar solos and contemplative vibe, allowing the band to stretch out musically and display their improvisational skills.
- Movin’ On Down The Line (39:49): This gritty rock track is driven by Chris Robinson’s powerful vocals and the band’s tight rhythm section, bringing an energetic edge to the performance.
- Goodbye Daughters Of The Revolution (47:18): A high-energy rocker with a catchy chorus, resonating strongly with the audience and reflecting the band’s dynamic stage presence.
- Jealous Again (52:19): This energetic track highlights The Black Crowes’ Southern rock roots and Chris Robinson’s dynamic vocal delivery, offering an electrifying moment in the set.
- Oh Josephine (57:56): A soulful and melodic track that blends rock with soul influences, showcasing the band’s versatility.
- Thorn In My Pride (01:05:26): A sprawling epic that allows the band to fully explore their improvisational abilities, creating a mesmerizing and extended musical journey.
Band Members and Performance Dynamics
- Chris Robinson (Vocals & Guitar): Renowned for his charismatic stage presence and soulful vocals, Chris Robinson leads the band with his powerful voice and dynamic performance.
- Rich Robinson (Guitar & Vocals): Provides intricate guitar work and harmonies that perfectly complement Chris’s vocals, adding depth to the band’s sound.
- Sven Pipien (Bass & Vocals): Anchors the rhythm section with solid bass lines and contributes backing vocals, adding a foundational groove to the performance.
- Luther Dickinson (Guitar & Vocals): Adds bluesy guitar solos and additional vocal harmonies, enriching the band’s musical texture.
- Adam MacDougall (Keys): Enhances the band’s sound with keyboard textures and melodic fills, contributing to the overall depth and richness of the performance.
- Steve Gorman (Drums): Drives the band’s rhythm with precision and energy, anchoring their dynamic live performances and ensuring a tight and engaging rhythm.
The Black Crowes’ 2008 Newport Folk Festival performance stands as a testament to their ability to seamlessly blend rock, blues, and folk influences into a cohesive and captivating live experience. With a setlist that spans acoustic ballads, blues rockers, and sprawling epics, the band demonstrates their musical versatility and knack for creating memorable live moments. This performance is a definitive example of The Black Crowes’ enduring legacy as one of the most compelling rock bands of their generation.
Tune in to tonight’s All Things Considered Live on Jamfest to relive this exceptional performance and experience the magic of The Black Crowes’ live sound.