It has been nearly a decade since the musical world last heard from Alabama Shakes, a band that rocketed to fame with a unique blend of Southern rock, soul, and blues. today this past Sunday night on September 14th, after a long hiatus, the band triumphantly returned to Boston and on to MGM beat Hall’s stage with their highly anticipated reunion tour, featuring original members singer Brittany Howard, bassist Zac Cockrell, and guitarist Heath Fogg. The sold-out theater was buzzing with anticipation, a palpable energy of fans eager to reconnect with a sound they’d dearly missed.
As the house lights dimmed, the crowd hushed, and a surprising sound filled the venue: the relaxing, tranquil chirping of crickets. It was a gentle, atmospheric choice that perfectly set the mood for the lush, verdant stage design. The entire stage was transformed into a bountiful landscape, adorned with beautiful flora and fauna from leading to bottom and side to side. It was a visual feast, a living ecosystem that complemented the band’s earthy, soulful sound.
The cheers erupted as the band sauntered onto the stage, each member taking their spot with a calm confidence. Brittany Howard, a force of nature in her own right, greeted the crowd with a warm smile before the band plunged into their set. They wasted no time breaking the ice, opening with the soulful and simmering “Dunes” and the laid-back, grooving “Hang Loose.” The crowd, already captivated, swayed and clapped along, fully immersing themselves in the moment.
With the initial greeting out of the way, the band dug deep into their special yet impactful catalog. They seamlessly transitioned into the raw, emotional “I Found You” and the gritty, soulful “Guess Who.” The band’s chemistry was undeniable, a tight-knit unit that had not lost a single step in their time away. They then threw a musical lay-up that had everyone cheering, launching into their breakthrough smash single, the iconic “Hold On.” The crowd’s joyous singing along was a powerful testament to the song’s enduring legacy.
The energy continued to build as the set progressed, with mid-set highlights that truly showcased the band’s dynamic range. They delivered an electrifying performance of “Future People,” a song that pulsated with a kinetic energy that filled the room. This was followed by the soaring, passionate “Over My Head” and the raw, bluesy power of “Shoegaze.” Each song was a masterclass in musical storytelling, with Howard’s voice acting as the powerful and emotive guide.
Throughout the evening, Howard took a few minutes here and there to engage with the adoring audience. She was gracious and humble, simply saying thank you and letting everyone know how much she and the band appreciated their unwavering support. It was a genuine connection, a moment of mutual respect and gratitude between the artists and their fans that made the performance feel even more special.
As the initial set neared its end, the band treated their fans to some of their most beloved and high-energy tracks. The title track from their second album, “Sound and Color,” was a lush, atmospheric journey. This was followed by the explosive “Don’t Wanna Fight,” a song that had the crowd dancing and singing with unrestrained abandon. The set closed with the powerful and soulful “Gimme All Your Love,” a perfect ending that left everyone wanting more.
The crowd’s thunderous demand for an encore was met with a resounding return to the stage. For their final act, the band truly let loose, launching into the funky, high-octane “American Dream” and the groovy, blues-tinged “Drive By Baby.” The final note of the night belonged to the anthemic “Always Alright,” a song that encapsulated the joyful spirit of the entire evening.
As the final chords faded, the band waved goodbye, their faces beaming with the same shared joy as their audience. The Alabama Shakes’ return was not just a reunion tour; it was a powerful reminder of their unique and irreplaceable place in beat.
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