The Black Crowes say kids are unconcerned about world on edge

Chris Robinson, frontman of The Black Crowes, discusses the band’s latest album, A Pound Of Feathers, in a recent interview. This album marks the band’s tenth studio release and their second since reconciling in 2019. The new record showcases the band’s continued love for rock’n’ roll, as described in a five-star review by Mark Blake in MOJO. The Black Crowes’ ability to blend their influences into well-crafted songs demonstrates their skill and boldness.

Robinson shares insights about the album’s creation, revealing that A Pound Of Feathers was recorded in just 10 days. He explains that he preferred a fast-paced recording process to capture the raw essence of being in a rock’n’ roll band. Drawing from past experiences, Robinson mentions a time when extended studio sessions led to tensions among the band members, emphasizing the importance of spontaneity and energy in the recording process.

Compared to their previous album, Happiness Bastards, Robinson describes A Pound Of Feathers as a rawer and more stripped-down record. During the recording sessions, the band kept it simple with basic setups, focusing on capturing the essence of their music. Robinson also shares an interesting anecdote about recording a frog on one of the tracks, adding a unique twist to the album’s sound.

Regarding the band’s lineup changes, Robinson acknowledges that The Black Crowes are essentially a duo consisting of himself and his brother, Rich Robinson. Reflecting on the band’s history, he emphasizes that the core of The Black Crowes has always been the Robinson brothers and their songwriting partnership. Despite various lineup changes over the years, Robinson believes that the current setup allows them to maintain a cohesive and focused approach to their music.

Discussing the imagery in the video for the single, Profane Prophecy, Robinson addresses the idea of demonic influences in rock music, highlighting the band’s rebellious and unconventional nature. He explains that while creating the album involved a powerful creative energy, it does not necessarily convey a negative or sinister message. Embracing the outsider persona of rock’n’rollers, The Black Crowes aim to push boundaries and challenge conventional norms.

Robinson also hints at the band’s musical influences, mentioning their collaboration with Jimmy Page and drawing inspiration from Led Zeppelin’s iconic album, Presence. The song Doomsday Doggerel delves into the darker aspects of contemporary America, offering a reflective commentary on societal issues. Meanwhile, the autobiographical elements in songs like You Call This A Good Time add personal depth to the album’s lyrics, creating a multifaceted and engaging listening experience.

Overall, The Black Crowes’ latest album encapsulates their enduring passion for rock’n’ roll music, blending nostalgia with a fresh artistic vision. Robinson’s candid reflections on the album’s creation process and thematic content provide valuable insights into the band’s creative journey and musical evolution. With A Pound Of Feathers, The Black Crowes continue to uphold their legacy as pioneers of authentic and unapologetic rock music.