Album Review - Alabama Shakes: "Boys & Girls"
Don't you just love it when you discover an album that instantly becomes your go-to "tension-diffuser playlist" against a cruddy day? If you answered, "YES!", then you're already predisposed to an affinity for Alabama Shakes' debut album Boys & Girls. Think about it -- no hassle to pluck songs from every crevice of your computer or mobile device, no arranging (then rearranging) tracks to make a perfect mix -- just a ready-made album where all you have to do is press the little triangle "play" symbol. AHH. Let the healing begin.
Alabama Shakes bring something special to the table with this album. If you were fortunate enough to catch the album's first track, "Hold On", as iTunes' free single not too long ago, then you're ahead of the game. You had somewhat early exposure to the Alabama quartet's soothing "roots rock" sound. The other tracks on Boys & Girls are no different in quality. They're all gripping. It's no wonder Alabama Shakes have caused a media stir since they released their self-titled, four-song EP in September 2011. It's like they took a swig of Janis Joplin's smashing vocals, a dash of The Black Keys' chops, & a tinge of My Morning Jacket's eccentric Americana, boiled them in a cauldron, & harvested the awesome sound heard in Boys & Girls.
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