Warpaint marked the studio resurrection of The Black Crowes and cemented them as a unique entity in today’s overcrowded music scene. Warpaint Live commemorates the resurrection with a double live album that consists of the entire Warpaint album as well as six additional cover songs.
The entire first disc celebrates Warpaint and the band’s offering is spot on, as well as a bit more energetic. That said, those who have seen these guys live over the past few years probably expect no less. The album sounds tight, even in its live form. I have read some complaints about the live mix in online reviews lately and I’m baffled as to why that is. In my opinion this is one of the better sounding live albums out there. The songs sound loose and even bluesier than on the record itself. It sounds a little thin, sure, but to me that means it hasn’t been overdubbed or messed with in any way. This is pure Black Crowes as the explosive performances of “Goodbye Daughters of the Revolution” and “Wounded Bird” amply proves. “Evergreen” is another highlight, particularly the wonderful solo near the end of the song.
The second disc contains the six cover songs. They are mostly old standards and to be honest, while I appreciate the history, I could have done without the disc and been just as satisfied. It’s a true bonus disc but given the nature of the songs probably won’t appeal to the band’s entire wide ranging fanbase. If you’re still on the fence about the reunion/new lineup of The Black Crowes then Warpaint Live is a must for you. It’ll convince you in just a few minutes that this band is in their prime in 2009.
Reviewed by Mark Fisher
