Black Crowes- Before the Frost, Until the Freeze

Before the Frost...Until the Freeze

This is not a country rock CD.  But if you like country rock, Give this one a listen.  It does seem, however, that the Crowes are becoming less of a rock band and instead are really just a band...and a great one. To call them a rock band would ignore the bands embrace of bluegrass and country, particularly on the Until The Freeze songs. I am  a country or bluegrass fan, but when the Crowes inject their soul into those genres, those songs are just as sweet as any of their gritty rock numbers. And "Good Morning Captain" which opens the disc is probably the Crowes' best "rock" song in a decade. I take that back....its the best rock song they have released this decade until you get to track 2, "Been a Long Time", which is even better. The band(including the guest musicians playing the fiddle and the banjo) sound much tighter and more comfortable together than they did on Warpaint. The additions of Luther and Adam on guitar and keyboards have given the Crowes a new facet to their personality that I hope they continue to explore. Chris's vocals continue to sound better. I have a hard time thinking of a better lead vocalist in rock right now. Chris and Rich's lyrics will lift your soul on this release. "Last Place That Love Lives" and "Fork In The River" are both gorgeous closers that cut to your heart and leave you speechless. An absolute cannot miss. Thank you Crowes for smiling on 2009...we needed it.