Black Crowes flap on back

THE BLACK CROWES; "Before the Frost..." (Silver Arrow) ★★★½

The Black Crowes are back with a swagger and some good, old-fashioned southern swampy rock with "Before the Frost ... Until the Freeze."

Band leaders and brothers Chris and Rich Robinson and the rest of the group have crafted a dynamic little album that features some ditties, such as the bayou rhythm-inspired "Been a Long Time (Waiting on Love)," the mid-tempo chug of "A Train Makes a Lonely Sound" and the funky bobber "I Ain't Hiding."

Mixed with those toe-tappers are the yearning ballad "Appaloosa," the contemplative "What Is Home" and the heart-breaking "The Last Place that Love Lives."

The sweet aspect of this CD is the fact that it was recorded live in Levon Helm's barn in Woodstock, N.Y.

That probably helped the vibe and energy of the songs, which bring to mind the band's early works — the 1990 debut "Shake Your Monkey Maker" and the 1992 follow-up, "Southern Harmony and Musical Companion."

As a bonus, there is an online code in the CD that will allow fans to download the companion album for "Before the Frost ..." called "... Until the Freeze."

If you go ...

What: The Black Crowes

Where: The Depot, 400 W. South Temple

When: Nov. 15, 7:30 p.m.

How much: $40

Phone: 801-467-8499, 800-888-8499

Web: www.smithstix.com

e-mail: scott@desnews.com