THE BAND: Garnering a great deal of attention from all corners of the world upon the release of 2012’s Boys and Girls, Alabama Shakes caused quite a stir with their seamless fusion of blues and soul; not to mention playing one of the most talked about sets at T in the Park that same year. Expanding their repertoire with the addition of funkier elements and a previously undocumented swagger, the four piece have returned with the outstanding ‘Future People’.
THE SOUND: Opening with a boisterous riff that recalls Funkadelic at their most potent and essential, the track manages to meld its more left-field influences with the bluesy vibe that was intrinsic in propelling them to mainstream acclaim. Elevated by the amazing vocals of frontwoman Britanny Howard, she manages to flit between the soulful crooning of the Motown starlets that preceded her and an arresting primal howl with ease. Culminating in a barrage of guitars accented by captivating piano, Alabama Shakes have managed to re-assert themselves with a completely organic sound that stands out in an overcrowded marketplace.
THE LOWDOWN: The band’s long awaited sophomore effort Sound & Color will be released on 21st April 2015 via ATO Records. Whilst the band haven’t announced a comprehensive touring schedule, they are slated to ply their trade at Brighton’s The Great Escape before returning to British Shores in July for T In The Park’s first year at Strathallan Castle.
