If last year’s shows and album proved what we already knew—that The Black Crowes are a magnificent and seminal band for those who grew up in the late ’80s—then their history also shows a band willing to take chances. Not all of them worked, let’s be honest, but one that absolutely did was their partnership with Jimmy Page back in ’99, resulting in Live At The Greek.
To celebrate its 25th anniversary (and yes, all these anniversaries do make me feel old), the album has been re-released, repackaged, and expanded with 16 additional tracks. The most interesting part of this release is listening to it again for the first time in decades. “Celebration Day” remains the perfect opener, with Chris Robinson proving—without argument—that he has the best voice in rock ‘n’ roll. Meanwhile, Rich Robinson and Page’s guitars are nothing short of sensational.
As much as the Led Zeppelin tracks are legendary, the Crowes’ songs hold more personal weight. That said, no one can deny the sheer power of “Custard Pie” or the rightful place of “Sick Again” in this set. But naturally, we’re all gravitating toward the new material. “No Speak No Slave” is an absolute maelstrom of guitar, showcasing the Crowes’ love for jamming—they’ve always been a heartbeat away from Govt Mule at their best.
A newly included “Hard to Handle” brings back the spirit of what got many fans into the band in the first place. “The Wanton Song” grooves harder than expected, while “Misty Mountain Hop” raises a nostalgic smile. Elsewhere, “Hats Off for Nowhere” is pure fun, “What Is and What Should Never Be” is a stormy highlight, and “Wiser Time” is simply stunning. Among the blues covers, “Mellow Down Easy” strips everything to its rawest form, dripping in harmonica, while their take on B.B. King’s “Woke Up This Morning (My Baby She Was Gone)” captures the live atmosphere beautifully.
The epics are here, too—”Ten Years Gone” is a towering presence, and the intensity of “In My Time of Dying” might just make this version one of the best. “Your Time Is Gonna Come” is massive, thanks in large part to the organ work.
From a personal perspective, the inclusion of “Remedy” (one of the 16 new tracks) is a huge win—it sounds absolutely glorious. Meanwhile, “The Lemon Song” features a solo that is guaranteed to bring a smile, while “Into the Light” sprawls in all the right ways. The blues covers, always a highlight, shine once again—Elmore James’ “Shake Your Moneymaker” feels as fresh as ever, and Page takes complete ownership of “Sloppy Drunk Blues.” “Shape of Things” gives Robinson a chance to stretch his vocals, and “Nobody’s Fault But Mine” delivers incredible guitar work.
The swagger of “Heartbreaker” is undeniable, and when they let loose on “Bring It On Home,” it becomes truly special. This reissue also spreads the classics throughout the set more evenly, allowing gems like “She Talks to Angels” to sit naturally alongside Fleetwood Mac’s “Oh Well.” The blues influence runs deep, making extended jams on “You Shook Me” a joy, while Led Zeppelin’s “Hey Hey What Can I Do” and “Out on the Tiles” provide raucous energy before the inevitable closer—yes, that song.
The original album ended there, but not this version. Here, we get six rarities from soundcheck—five of which appeared in the expanded edition but now appear in rawer form. However, the true treasure lies in one completely improvised jam between Rich Robinson and Jimmy Page. A pure blues workout, it captures the essence of what made this collaboration so special—two musicians locked into the same wavelength, letting the music take them where it wants to go.
Yes, there’s a lot to get through, and only the most committed will take it on, but isn’t that the point of these things in this era? The bottom line is Live At The Greek is, for a Black Crowes fan, a real treat.
Rating: 9/10
