Album Information Section

Album Title: Live at the Greek

Artist: Jimmy Page & The Black Crowes

Original Release Date: 2000-07-04

Label: TVT Records

Track Listing

• 1. Celebration Day (3:42)
• 2. Custard Pie (5:19)
• 3. Sick Again (4:34)
• 4. What Is and What Should Never Be (5:27)
• 5. Woke Up This Morning (4:15)
• 6. Shape of Things to Come (3:09)
• 7. Sloppy Drunk (6:06)
• 8. Ten Years Gone (6:31)
• 9. In My Time of Dying (9:34)
• 10. Your Time Is Gonna Come (6:00)
• 11. The Lemon Song (8:59)
• 12. Nobody’s Fault but Mine (6:42)
• 13. Heartbreaker (5:50)
• 14. Hey Hey What Can I Do (3:31)
• 15. Mellow Down Easy (5:20)
• 16. Oh Well (4:11)
• 17. Shake Your Money Maker (4:25)
• 18. You Shook Me (8:26)
• 19. Out on the Tiles (3:40)
• 20. Whole Lotta Love (5:34)

Recording Information

Live at the Greek was recorded at the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles, California, during a series of performances in 1999. The album captures the collaboration between legendary Led Zeppelin guitarist Jimmy Page and the Southern rock band The Black Crowes, featuring a mix of classic rock interpretations and original material. The album was produced by Jimmy Page himself, alongside engineer and co-producer, Danny Kadar, known for his work with various prominent artists.

Throughout the recording, Page utilized a range of vintage amplifiers and guitars, aiming to recreate the iconic sound of Led Zeppelin while allowing The Black Crowes’ unique style to shine through. The use of live recording techniques aimed to capture the energy and spontaneity of the performances, resulting in a dynamic listening experience. Anecdotes from the recording sessions highlight the chemistry between Page and The Black Crowes, as they blended their influences to create a fresh take on classic rock.

Band Context

At the time of the album’s release in 2000, The Black Crowes were experiencing a revival after a period of hiatus. The band had gained significant fame in the early 1990s with their debut album, Shake Your Money Maker, and were known for their blues-infused rock sound. However, internal conflicts and lineup changes had led to a temporary break. The collaboration with Jimmy Page marked a pivotal moment, re-establishing their presence in the rock scene.

The lineup for the performances included Chris Robinson on vocals, Rich Robinson on guitar, Sven Pipien on bass, and Steve Gorman on drums, among others. This particular ensemble had been actively touring and was eager to embrace the opportunity to share the stage with a rock icon like Page. The collaboration was seen as a merging of generations in rock music, offering fans a unique blend of classic and contemporary styles.

Track Commentary

The album opens with “Celebration Day,” a powerful rendition that sets the tone for the entire performance. This track, originally by Led Zeppelin, showcases Page’s signature guitar work, while Chris Robinson’s vocals add a fresh vigor. “Custard Pie” follows, continuing the energetic momentum with its bluesy roots and captivating riffs. The Black Crowes’ interpretation of Zeppelin classics is evident throughout the album, particularly in tracks like “Sick Again” and “Heartbreaker,” where the band injects their own flavor while remaining true to the original spirit.

Among the standout songs is “In My Time of Dying,” a nearly ten-minute epic that showcases the band’s improvisational skills and musical chemistry. The slow, soulful build-up culminates in an explosive climax, highlighting Page’s virtuosity. Tracks such as “The Lemon Song” and “Whole Lotta Love” serve as testament to the band’s ability to reinterpret classic rock anthems, breathing new life into these beloved songs.

The critical reception of Live at the Greek was generally positive, with many praising the synergy between Page and The Black Crowes. Critics noted the album’s ability to capture the essence of a live rock performance, celebrating the spontaneity and energy that comes with it. The collaboration is seen as a significant moment in both artists’ careers, demonstrating the timeless appeal of classic rock while introducing it to a new generation of listeners.

Overall, Live at the Greek stands as a remarkable testament to the enduring legacy of both Jimmy Page and The Black Crowes, showcasing their talents and the powerful connection formed on stage.