The Black Crowes are possibly a hugely underrated act. Their appearance is different from any band you'll see today (despite the fact their hay-days were the 90's). The Madchester fad was making its debut during the 90's with bands like Blur, Oasis, The Verve, The Stone Roses, etc... and then you have The Black Crowes who seem to be one of the only bands that kept the 60's alive throughout that era. Dressed like Graham Nash, sporting the whole 'hippy' vibe and prancing about in their videos in meadows with flowers in their hair. Lead singer Chris Robinson bears a striking resemblance to Jeff Bebe from Almost Famous (which makes it all a bit coincidental that he's married to Kate Hudson?!) While the rest of band could probably pass off as the other members of Stillwater.
But as for their music, it doesn't really make as much of an impression as their appearance. I've sat and listened to as many songs as I possibly could and only found about three which have stood out - for me anyway. Most of the songs sound almost identical to eachother and feature a 'cheesy' chorus with gospel choirs, repetitive verses and lyrics which you wouldn't quote. I've never really met anyone who has a deep interest in the 60's like myself who has reccomended The Black Crowes to me, and then when looking at photos of Chris Robinson in particular I've always wondered why.
Their music is listenable, of course... classic rock songs with Chris Robinson's vocals (one of the only stand outs), but for a band who seem to appear so different to the rest of the music of today you would expect their music to make just as much of an impression. Reccomended songs are - Midnight From The Inside Out, Cosmic Friend and Lickin', all from the album Lions. And I suggest a listen to Aimless Peacock below, which could almost pass off as something featuring George Harrison and his sitar... possibly a slight exxageration?!
I can imagine them being a brilliant band live, recreating a classic rock concert from the early 70's, but maybe this is a lesson in 'don't judge a book by it's cover'.
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