Four years down the line since THE BLACK CROWES got back together for the third time their fans almost ceased to hope to hear new music from the Robinson brothers – the “1972” EP released in 2022 comprised only covers – yet March 15th will find the ensemble’s first full-length studio album since “Before The Frost…Until The Freeze” that was out as far back as 2009. Laid down by Chris and Rich as well as bassist Sven Pipien, plus a few accompanists, “Happiness Bastards” is said to mark their return to the no-frills form of yore.
Consisting of ten pieces one of which has country singer Lainey Wilson add her lines to the group’s, the fresh offering’s cover artwork may seem rather primitive but on closer inspection one can see the cover of 1992’s “The Southern Harmony And Musical Companion” painted over. What’s the significance of that is unclear, as there’s no apparent link to the collective’s 40th anniversary, so only time will tell the reasoning behind it.
1. Bedside Manners
2. Rats And Clowns
3. Cross Your Fingers
4. Wanting And Waiting
5. Wilted Rose (feat. Lainey Wilson)
6. Dirty Cold Sun
7. Bleed It Dry
8. Flesh Wound
9. Follow the Moon
10. Kindred Friend