As I sit here listening to this album for the first time in a few weeks, I feel that this album has gotten better even better with time.
A general way to describe this album is a cross between the moody, transendent music of Amorica with the more memorable choruses and vocal melodies of Lions and By Your Side.
This album starts off well. tThe first song is an upbeat, slightly up-tempo rocker called "Goodbye Daughters Of The Revolution". Though the vocals are more laid back, this tune recalls the harder side of the Crowes', like in "Kickin' My Heart Around". This tune is ideal for driving down the highway in a convertible on a sunny day with the roof down. Next is "Walk Believer Walk", a slower, moodier song that resembles the dark blues of songs like "Sometimes Salvation" and the chorus of "High Head Blues". This song would have sounded cool on Aerosmith's Honkin' On Bobo, IMO. "Oh Josephine" is a somber ballad that brings the album further down the Crowes' blues roots.
"Evergreen" changes the direction of the album a bit, as the song opens with a heavy, distorted riff. This song resembles Amorica probably the most. "We Who See The Deep" is one of the album's standout tracks. The intro riff is not only heavy but well-constructed. It's these kind of dynamic riffs that make the Crowes stand out. This song reminds me of the heavier riff rockers on the Stones' Exile on Main St. "Locust Street" is a nice, mid-tempo acoustic rocker. The tone is really soothing; it'd put you to sleep (but not for being boring). "Moving On Down The Line" is by far the most unique song on the album. This a very psychedelic tune, one that resembles much of the material on Lions. However, the chorus is very upbeat and memorable. There's also a really cool harmonica solo. Chris Robinson must of had a lot of input in this one. "Wounded Bird" is my fav tune on the album. The majority of the song is typical Crowes, but the ending is serene. With a bitter-sweet rhythym underneath, Robinson repeats in a soothing voice set your mind to fly. This part sounds beautiful. "God's Got It" is an old-school blues romp that reminds me of Aerosmith's cover of "Jesus Is On The Mainline" (to compare to that again). There's a powerful bass line in this one, and what sounds liek a tambourine in that back. I picture the band live in the studio, all on their feet with everyone clapping along. "There's Gold In Them Hills" brings back the more mellow side of the album. This is a largely acoustic song with some heavier portions later on. Robinson's vocals are at their finest here. Listen to him when he says there's gold in them hills, if ya make it. It'd be hard to find someone else who sings with more soul and conviction than him. The album closes with a relaxing tune, "Whoa Mule". Once again, the tempo is slower and the focus seems to be on ambience. The vocals are very relaxing. This one would make a good late-night bonfire singalong.
This album is outstanding. Though By Your Side was an excellent album (albeit more rock-oriented than their usual blues/rock fusion), Warpaint, IMO, is the band's best album since Amorica. Their passion is clear through this music. My suggestion: buy this album or (if you own it) pull it off the shelf, turn out your lights, turn on a black light, lava lamp, or something mood setting, lay down and listen to this album from start to finish. You'll have never felt so proud to be a fan of pure rock'n'roll.
Subject: Black Crowes - Warpaint 
Tue May 13, 2008 12:08 am
