Alabama Shakes
“Boys & Girls”
“Bless my heart, Bless my soul.” Damn you Athens…Alabama. Alabama Shakes began in a high school
Psychology class in Athens, AL. When I
first heard the rave reviews of their live shows I assumed they were from the neighboring
Georgia’s Classic City. The opening
track, “Hold On” is bound to be the breakthrough hit for this band. It is now getting play on top 40 radio which
would typically make me cringe for the loss of a truly original band with a
solid freshman effort.
What is not
to love about a rock band with a female lead singer who demands attention with
her powerful, soulful voice? If you were
unfamiliar with this band you might think they are a Jack White side project. Brittany Howard is a real talent as evidenced
by her multiple guest appearances with the likes of My Morning Jacket and Drive
By Truckers to name a few. The album
itself is not as rocking as the opening track but the soul of Alabama is on
full display throughout the eleven tracks.
One can listen to the album and think the band would hail from the noted
soul city of Muscle Shoals. To get a
good idea of what this band will sound like for years to come, check out “You
Ain’t Alone.” My God, Brittany, you have
soul! As the song builds, so does
Brittany’s strong vocal range. It goes
down well with the mean guitar hooks and a good cup of coffee.
Alabama
Shakes recorded “Boys & Girls” with little money but loads of fanfare. The end result is an great first album from a
band destined for stardom. Some may
think they are already there. If you
watched the band on SNL you will be able to make your own decision. What say you?
Rock on kids.
Brian Killips
"I bought the album the same day I bought The Walkmen - Heaven. I gotta say it was a good day." - Ice Cube
ReplyDeletebut really it was me buying those albums not Ice Cube.
I'd like to see where they take things on the follow up album.
ReplyDelete