Alabama Shakes Reunites for First Album in Over a Decade After Brewery Show

Alabama Shakes returned to the spotlight with “I Must Be Dreaming,” an 11-song album released 11 years after their previous record. The reunion was sparked by a request from Bo Hicks, co-founder of Druid City Brewing Company in Tuscaloosa, for a charity-oriented gig that would boost the brewery and a local food pantry. Brittany Howard accepted and brought back guitarist Heath Fogg and bassist Zac Cockrell, leading to rehearsals that evolved into a full album.

Highlights include the politically tinged “I Feel Hope Coming” and the garden-themed love song “Garden,” while Howard cites “Tea Time” as her favorite track. Island Records co-chairman and CEO Justin Eshak noted the band’s willingness to push sonic boundaries. With drummer Steve Johnson having departed, the group launched a North American tour that will pass through venues like Tanglewood, Radio City Music Hall, the Santa Barbara Bowl, and the Ohana Festival.