CINCINNATI, OH- The infamous Robinson brothers, Chris and Rich, have once again proven why they are one of the most enduring rock and roll bands. Over nearly 40 years, they’ve endured numerous lineup changes, extended hiatuses, and backstage brawls, but the one thing that never changes is the music—and how powerful and important it still is. Their latest album, *Happiness Bastards*, was released on March 15, 2024, and has already seen them tour 35 dates in the spring of 2024. This leg, called “Reprise,” kicked off with the opening night of the 22-stop tour on September 28th at the Hard Rock Casino Outside Stage in Cincinnati.
It was a gloomy, stormy day leading up to the show, and I was concerned it might be canceled given the weather, as it’s an outdoor venue. Torrential downpours had plagued the region due to Hurricane Helene (my condolences to those who lost their lives and/or homes as a result), which also caused widespread power outages across the East Coast. But as the saying goes, “you can’t stop rock and roll.”
Opening the night was Fortune Child, a band from Jacksonville, Florida. The power trio blends rock, soul, and blues into a sound that was an excellent fit for this tour. The trio, consisting of drummer/singer Christian Powers (with a powerful bluesy voice) holding down the beat steadily, bassist Jon Ward laying down the low-end grooves, and guitarist Buddy Crump soaring with sonic solos, played songs from their critically acclaimed 2022 debut album with palpable energy, engaging the audience. Powers’ drum kit was set sideways at center stage, likely so he could interact with the crowd as he sang.
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By the time we were ready for The Black Crowes, the drizzling weather had pretty much subsided. The atmosphere was electric with anticipation. As Chris, Rich, and the crew—including longtime bass player Sven Pipien, keyboardist Erik Deutsch, lead guitarist Nico Bereciartua, drummer Cully Symington, and two female backup singers—took the stage, the crowd erupted into loud cheers. Chris spent a moment greeting the crowd before they launched into “Rats and Clowns,” a track off the new album that drew fans in immediately. Chris is a consummate performer and an engaging frontman, mixing the styles of Mick Jagger, Axl Rose, and Steven Tyler as he danced and pranced across the stage. His voice was as powerful as ever as he belted out classic hits, new tracks, and some interesting covers. Rich, meanwhile, was more stoic, playing his parts perfectly and even taking the lead on a cover of The Rolling Stones’ “You’ve Got the Silver.”
No Black Crowes set would be complete without their beloved songs from throughout their storied career. “Hard to Handle,” “Remedy,” “Twice as Hard,” “She Talks to Angels,” and, of course, “Jealous Again” all made the setlist. The one song I had been hoping to hear, though, was one of my top favorites: the rarely played “By Your Side.” To my surprise, they played it, and I was so caught off guard that I didn’t realize it was the song I’d been waiting for. Thank you, Black Crowes.
This was my fourth time seeing them live, and they’ve been consistently great with every show. I’ll keep seeing them again and again until they stop for good. Every show I’ve attended has been a highlight in my concert experiences, and this one was no different. They featured four songs from *Happiness Bastards*, including the opener “Bleed it Dry,” “Dirty Cold Sun,” and “Wanting and Waiting.” It looks like the album is in consideration for Grammy nominations, and I hope they get it. They closed the show with a rousing rendition of The Velvet Underground’s “White Light/White Heat,” which happens to be another favorite of mine.
The tour continues through early November, so if they come near you, don’t miss it—it’s well worth the drive.
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