BLACK CROWES, THE happiness bastards SAR66

The Robinsons Return: The Black Crowes’ ‘Happiness Bastards’ (SAR66)

Today’s entry marks a significant comeback for the bad boys of Southern rock. We are looking at the 2024 vinyl release of Happiness Bastards by The Black Crowes, released on their own Silver Arrow Records with the catalog number SAR66.

A Long-Awaited Reunion

Released on March 15, 2024, this album represents the band’s first collection of new original material in 15 years. Produced by the acclaimed Jay Joyce, the record finds brothers Chris and Rich Robinson setting aside their feuds to deliver a punchy, groove-oriented rock and roll record. The sound is a return to their roots, blending bluesy swagger with heavy riffs on tracks like the opener “Bedside Manners” and the lead single “Wanting And Waiting.” The album also features a notable guest appearance by country star Lainey Wilson on the soulful track “Wilted Rose.” Backed by longtime bassist Sven Pipien and a tight new lineup, the Crowes sound revitalized and urgent.

Packaging and Aesthetics

The presentation is slick and stylized. The album is housed in a gatefold cover that opens to reveal a distinct “skulls pattern” artwork on the interior. Collectors should note the specific sticker configuration on the shrink wrap: the front features two hype stickers (one with album info and one with the band logo), while the barcode is located on a sticker on the rear. A “Made in CZ” sticker confirms the manufacturing origin.

Technical Details

Pressed at GZ Media (indicated by the 271876E matrix numbers), the audio was mastered by Pete Lyman at Infrasonic Sound in Nashville. The runout grooves are stamped, ensuring clear identification of this specific US & European pressing.