Covering material that is firmly implanted in our minds as being at one with Robert Plant’s histrionics and much over-played use of the word “baby,” it is at first unsettling to hear another vocalist deliver these classic lines. Give it five minutes, however, and you’re left wondering, “Robert Who?” Chris Robinson’s vocals are strong and able, turning some older tunes into new, exciting pieces. It was obvious in concert and at the press conference that Jimmy Page and the Black Crowes truly get along and respect one another.
With good humor shining through, the guys spoke for a few minutes about the background of the disc and a few other topics. When I inquired as to why they thought the New York NetAid had been such a commercial failure in comparison to the simultaneous performances taking place elsewhere, the group perked up for the first time.
“Well, it was poor planning and promotions to begin with,” said Page. “That’s what you get when you hire an L.A. public relations firm that knows nothing about New York to promote a concert there. I mean, usually when I'm traveling for a gig, the guys in customs say to me - ‘Hey, Jimmy, you’re playing the stadium tonight, right? I’m gonna be there.’ For NetAid, I flew into New York and the custom guys were saying ‘Jimmy Page, what are you doing in New York?’ When I told them I was playing NetAid, they didn’t even know what that was.”
At any rate, if you were ever a fan of either band, especially Zeppelin, check out Live At The Greek - Excess All Areas, available via the Internet ONLY at www.musicmakers.com. It’s a great compilation that is imperative for any classic rock fiend.
reporting and photo by j bloomrosen
