|
Story and photos by Gypsy Davey
Selling out venues across the country and set to embark on a European leg of their current tour, Alabama Shakes are creating quite the buzz...oh, and did I neglect to mention this happening before their first LP drops. That's a very impressive feat to the casual observer, but one that's well understood by those who've been following their climb. However, to enjoy the full-flavor Shakes, you must see them live! They'll jack you up, and leave you feeling good. Front babe Brittany Howard is one infectious chick. Her bluesy vocal command, twist of lyric and blistering flourishes picked on her cherry burst Harmony Rocket, will leave you picking your jaw up from the venue house floor. Backed by bassist Zac Cockrell, timekeeper Steve Johnson and Heath Fogg on lead guitar, the Shakes construct a rootsy blend of soulful rock, in the swagger of early Ike Turner blues. The toothsome palette of songs served, were a medley of what's to come on their first album titled Boys and Girls, slated for an early April release. Jotted down on a paper plates, and frisbee'd into the crowd after closing out their show, the appetizing set list consisted of:
"Goin' to the Party,"
I Found You,"
Hold On,"
Always Alright,"
Hurricane Strut,"
Hang Loose,"
Mama,"
Boys & Girls,"
Rise to the Sun,"
On Your Way,"
You Ain't Alone."
As if the sentimental delivery on "Boys & Girls," wasn't breathtaking enough, they closed out the show with the tenderly succulent "You Ain't Alone," where the outro chorus built to such a climactic crescendo, that the entire house, swept away in the emotion, sang along to the words, "You Ain't Alone...Just let me be, your ticket home." Alabama Shakes are one of the best live acts going right now. Catch 'em if you're among the lucky to land tickets!
|
