It was Jim who first brought Alabama Shakes to my attention.Then I got the email that said Rough Trade had snapped them up for their debut album in 2012. Then NPR’s All Songs Considered talked about the four-piece more and it sealed the deal.
‘Hold On’ is the earworm that has been repeating in my brain for the last two weeks. A deftly-simple rock ‘n’ roll song with singer Brittany Howard coming across like a female Jack White. The band have an effortlessly vintage yet full of fresh air sound.
Grab their EP on Bandcamp before they blow up.
Niall Byrne is the founder of the most-influential Irish music site Nialler9, where he has been writing about music since 2005. He is the co-host of the Nialler9 Podcast and has written for the Irish Times, Irish Independent, Sunday Times, Totally Dublin, Cara Magazine, Red Bull and more. Niall is a DJ, co-founder of Lumo Club, event curator, Indie Sleaze club promoter, and producer of gigs and monthly listening parties & events in Dublin.
Dave Rawkblog described Alabama Shakes thusly: “Super legit southern-fried Walkmen.” Still like them though. http://www.rawkblog.net/2011/12/best-of-2011-224-opinions-on-buzz-bands/#more-10244