BRITTANY HOWARD GOES SOLO
The Alabama Shakes Frontwoman's Debut
Brittany Howard was a Grammy winner with the blues rock group Alabama Shakes. The band was innovative, and they captivated the music world with their new take on a classic genre. But earlier this year, Howard announced she’d be pursuing a solo venture. She released her debut album, Jaime, last week.
Jaime has the flavor of Alabama Shakes, but Howard puts her person touch on the album and gives it a magnificence all its own. It’s a thoroughly modern take on jazz and blues, and its instrumentally divine. Infectious rhythms and innovative melodies pay tribute to the styles of classic rhythm and blues, along with some of the artists Howard has noted to be influential on her style, like Mavis Staples.
Howard’s best vocal talent is on display throughout the album, along with her stunning songwriting abilities. Tracks like “Georgia” are cool, sexy and tantalizing, while others like “Short and Sweet” are adorably romantic. The mix of heat and vulnerability make each of the 11 tracks on Jaime a happy surprise. As wonderful as Alabama Shakes was, Howard’s solo career will certainly be just as good.
