With the emergence of the Black Keys and the lasting footprint left by the White Stripes, a significant interest in blues driven indie rock has been instilled in today's youth. As a result, the Alabama Shakes of Athens Alabama have picked an ideal time to debut their talents. Released in April, their most recent album Boys and Girls features their hit song "Hold On" which is getting some nationwide radio play. Like most casual fans of the Alabama Shakes, "Hold On" was the track that drew me into the group's music, but dig deeper into the record and you will find upbeat tracks, moving lyrics, and an unmatched amount of soul.
"Hang Loose" starts out with a fast paced country feel, but as the song reaches the chorus the band changes key and adds some splashy drumming and drawn out guitar strums to give the track a moody jazz tone. An organ kicks in late and brings the song back home to the band's blues roots.
On "Heartbraker", singer Brittany Howard takes the listener on soulful journey through the emotional intent of the song. With such variation in lyrical theme and musical style, Boys and Girls is an album that deserves to be listened straight through.
Next to not picking Kentucky to win the NCAA tournament while filling out my bracket, one of my greatest regrets so far in 2012 was not seeing the Alabama Shakes at Sasquatch this year. However, I will be sure to catch a show next time their in town.
Next to not picking Kentucky to win the NCAA tournament while filling out my bracket, one of my greatest regrets so far in 2012 was not seeing the Alabama Shakes at Sasquatch this year. However, I will be sure to catch a show next time their in town.
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