Crow Black Chicken are an Irish blues rock power trio formed by Christy O Hanlon on vocals and guitar, Stephen McGrath on bass and Gev Barrett on drums and backing vocals. The group begins as a blues band and develops into a blend of blues, rock, jazz, punk and folk, with a sound that also draws on hard rock.

The band earns a reputation as one of Ireland’s leading blues acts. Their style is described in relation to bands such as Gov’t Mule, Lynyrd Skynyrd and Led Zeppelin, combining blues rock with a rough, greasy edge. The trio’s line-up centres on O Hanlon, McGrath and Barrett, with the instrumental roles and backing vocals split between them.

Recordings

Crow Black Chicken release Electric Soup as their debut album. The record is noted for establishing the band’s identity rather than leaning on comparisons to other acts. Their follow-up Rumble Shake also receives strong praise, and the band is associated with a recording approach that includes laying down complete tracks as live takes, which contributes to a direct and unpolished feel.

Reception

Comments on the group’s work emphasise their intensity, soulfulness and playing strength. They receive praise from blues and rock writers, and individual endorsements describe them as a band able to revive rock and roll while playing forceful blues.