Miss The Black Crowes? You’re in luck. As the Crow Flies captures what made The Black Crowes so good: rootsy songwriting, shaggy classic-rock riffing and laid-back grooves. And, of course, with Chris Robinson contributing reedy, weathered and soulful vocals, the band’s performances are very Crowes-esque.
The band has constructed a fan-pleasing setlist. More specifically, As the Crow Flies is doing what amounts to a Black Crowes greatest hits show. The band has been kicking off shows with a cathartic take on “Remedy”; making room later for “Jealous Again” and “She Talks to Angels”; and then throwing in fan faves like “Wiser Time” and “By Your Side.” Select covers—including “Hush” (made famous for rock fans by Deep Purple) and another Crowes staple, “Hard to Handle”—are icing on the cake.
The musicianship is top-notch. Robinson has surrounded himself with a trio of instrumentalists who have been in The Black Crowes’ orbit—guitarist Audley Freed, bassist Andy Hess and keyboardist Adam MacDougall all played with the band—and two other talents: Chris Robinson Brotherhood drummer Tony Leone and hotshot guitarist Marcus King, who’s all of 22 years old. Together, they channel The Black Crowes’ jammy spirit—while adding crisp modern energy all their own.
AS THE CROW FLIES with Once and Future Band. May 8, 6:30 p.m., $40-$65. Brooklyn Bowl, 702-862-2695.
