Remember when Kings of Leon didn’t suck? If you’re disappointed in their mainstream approach to their once sweet and fresh Southern rock, fear not—Alabama Shakes are here to fill the void. Like many who listen to the establishing track, “Hold On,” you may not even expect that the band is lead by Brittany Howard—it’s not a bad thing, but she doesn’t always sound like a woman. Ultimately it doesn’t matter—her appeal is her gutsy and soulful delivery. The rest of the band (and Howard herself) play a great twangy, bluesy, soulful sound that can really hit to the core.
“I Found You” is a sweet reflection on love and admiration and the fear of loss. Title tack “Boys and Girls” is a unique song to hit the genre, contemplating the ability for a male and female to be ‘just friends’. It’s a slow tune that runs like1960’s blues, but can still resonate with a contemporary audience, like most of the entire album. Even breaks into a catchier tone don’t lose the signature sound that Alabama Shakes bring to the table. While they may be influenced by the greats and share some commonality with Kings of Leon or bluesy White Stripes, their perspective and humility shine through and make them a fresh voice for the audience.