September 15, 2026
Alabama Shakes bring their Southern soul flavor back to Montreal
Nights were getting shorter and cooler as fall crept in, and a comfortable breeze made the trees shakes. Tonight’s show was already proving that no one wanted to let go of the summer vibes just yet.
After an eight-year hiatus, Alabama Shakes returned with their southern soul flavor for an oversold, eager audience. Heating things up at MTelus and setting the stage for their big comeback on this reunion tour. Eleven years after their last full length release it was finally time to get a taste of new music with the release of I Must Be Dreaming.
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For some time, it was uncertain if we would ever get to see this fantastic band perform again, as Alabama Shakes had been on what felt like a permanent hiatus. My God was it great to have them back.
Emily King
R&B artist Emily King was on the road with them, filling some big shows to open up for such a recognized headlining band. People were more open and welcoming to her variety of tunes. I’d say it was fifty-fifty at first because most wanted to keep their spot for the night. Her voice was strong, and some songs were more pop soul that anything.
A former Grammy winner and nominee with many accolades under her belt. This wasn’t her first spot opening on big tours or sharing the spotlight. It helped make a better audience connection once she started playing her reimagined cover of Des’ree’s ” You Gotta Be. Keeping some songs short and sweet, her set was a nice bridge to what was to come.
Alabama Shakes
The crowd erupted as the lights went low and the smoke billowed. With a stage set up matching the title of the new album, the scene was set for a dream of finally getting to see them play. It was my first time, and it was proving difficult to find a spot to stand and see the stage. That’s how full they had packed the house. I actually relied on the TV screens more than I like to admit, but it was the only way to see the elite guitar strumming.
Still maintaining most of the original lineup, the Shakes lead guitarist Heath Fog, bassist Zach Cockrell and keyboardist Ben Tanner added chemistry that was apparent from the very first song. Singer Brittany Howard was dressed to camouflage as part of the clouds blended in the background, yet her presence was the complete opposite of subtle. Filling in on drums Lewis Wright after the departure of Steve Johnson. Extra touring musicians were added to fill in the gaps on certain songs. The storytelling capabilities captivated me every moment as I barely saw anyone filming, just living in the moment, a rarity these days.
Howard’s return to the band was certainly appreciated tonight. During the bands hiatus, she released her debut solo album reflecting on some more personal issues. Named Jaime after her sister, who passed away as a teen from cancer. Something she was all too familiar with as she went through the same battle, same cancer but won. Not without scars, it ended up taking her sight partially in one eye. Alchemising the pain and adversity to create something that many others can relate to. It helped her grow and expand her musical choices by finally being able to make solo decisions when it came to composition of songs, without compromise. I could hear a lot of the influence brought on to the bands new album
The newer songs were well received already, with only a few months of it being released. I really enjoyed the new singles Feel Hope Coming and Garden. Taking from the momentum of their earlier songs, with even more introspection.
My heartstrings were definitely plucked on a few. Another Life featured some extra vocals that really brought the song together live. This release highlighted some interesting vocal distortion pedal effects, heavier on drum and bass, which introduced a whole new level of experiencing the group. Playing an equal amount from the first studio release Boys and Girls and second Sound & Color, along with some ep singles. If it was your first time like mine seeing them it was a great setlist.
The most popular songs had people really in their own groove and singing along. The set ended with heavy hitters Don’t Wanna Fight and Gimme All Your Love. I had full goosebumps after that, and it wasn’t over yet.
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The encore became the most gospel-esque part, with a fiery rendition of Joe from the second full length. Followed by a much-needed speech about the current state of living and unrest, back in the USA. A more chaotically paced song capturing the impossible dream: the American Dream.
Last but not least, one rocking song brought the night to a close: Always Alright. A sentiment we shared as an audience experiencing such an amazing band. Let’s hope the momentum stays, and we see them back in Montreal again, real soon.
