Southern Harmony Under the Stars: The Black Crowes Reignite at Ravinia

Jun 18, 2025 admin_bitlc Features, Music News, Reviews 0

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By Harrison Kristoff

Last night at Ravinia’s Pavilion in Highland Park, The Black Crowes roared back to life. From the moment Chris and Rich Robinson stepped onstage—with a clean backdrop adorned only by their iconic smoking-crows logo, the stage radiated an effortless swagger that’s defined them since the ’80s.

Opening with the swaggering shuffle of “No Speak No Slave”, the band instantly set the tone. Their set flowed through fan favorites like “Hard to Handle”, a sultry version of “Remedy”, and deeper gems including “Twice As Hard”. Mid-set, they surprised the crowd with bluesy renditions of newer tracks from Happiness Bastards, notably “Rats and Clowns”, showing their evolution while staying grounded in gritty southern rock. They closed with a triumphant, extended jam on “Shake Your Moneymaker”, sending the audience into a glow of appreciation.

The crowd was mesmerized between hearty sing-alongs on choruses and loud cheers spilling into the rainy night sky, the response was electric. A wave of nostalgia hit during “Hard to Handle”, with lawn-goers on their feet, sloshing around. A few even hoisted their wine glasses in tribute to the Robinsons’ signature vibe. One fan shouted between songs, “Brothers back together!” capturing the sentiment that many shared.

The real headline of the night? The brothers. Chris and Rich Robinson appeared deeply in sync, trading smiles and playful banter between songs, no tension, just camaraderie. At one point, during a quiet interlude, Chris joked, “Tell you what, Rich hasn’t tried to jump ship yet,” drawing laughter and a visible affectionate eye-roll from Rich. It was clear: whatever past friction existed, it’s behind them, replaced by the relaxed chemistry of two siblings who’ve found their way back.

Throughout the evening, camaraderie flowed between the band and audience. At one point, Chris encouraged a lawn sing-along of the chorus to “Remedy”, and the crowd delivered in unison, an aural testament to the enduring power of the Crowes’ music.

This wasn’t just another nostalgic reunion, it was a vibrant rediscovery. The Black Crowes delivered a set that honored their past hits while showcasing new material with vigor. The brothers are no longer just co-frontmen; they’re a band reborn, musically and relationally.

If you were at Ravinia on June 18, you witnessed more than a concert, you saw The Black Crowes soaring again, in perfect formation.

For more on The Black Crowes, click here

For more on Ravinia, click here

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• Chris Robinson, Highland Park, live, Ravinia, Southern Rock, The Black Crowes, Tour 2025

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