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.
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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