Jun. 29: What to make of Counting Crows?

(Credit: Danny Clinch)

Jason Gonulsen
Special to Metromix

By now (if you're reading this), you probably know a few things about me. I like singer-songwriters (Neil Young, Ryan Adams, Ray LaMontagne, William Fitzsimmons, Matthew Ryan, etc.). I don't like Phish (hahaha). I like buying vinyl as opposed to "always" downloading albums (seriously, don't you love album cover art?).

What you don't know? I used to like and listen to Counting Crows. But, that was a long time ago.

So long ago that I have no idea what they're up to now (weren't they on the 'Shrek 2' soundtrack or something?). 'August and Everything After' was one of my favorite albums back in the day. It's the "everything after" part that has alluded me—the closest I have gotten to one of their songs recently was when Brandi Carlile performed "Raining in Baltimore" at her last stop at The Pageant. Did their albums get worse? Honestly, I don't ever remember trying to follow their career after Mr. Jones. Is that bad? (At least I'm honest, right?)

What I do know is that they're part of Fair St. Louis' live music line-up and that they'll be the headlining act on the night of July 3rd. So, either they still got it or they still have the ability to attract a decent crowd. I'm thinking it's a little bit of both.

Having said all that, I kinda have a few questions for you: What are their set lists like these days? Do they play their old songs? Do the new(er) songs rock? Does Adam Duritz still sport dreads? Overall, what am I missing? I want to hear from you, so leave a comment below!

Five Counting Crows videos: