Alabama Shakes return with renewed purpose

It's an easy yes. I Must Be Dreaming feels like the trio has been honing all they’ve learned in their time apart on different solo projects, coming back to deliver something necessary, building on the foundations laid by their debut, 2012's Boys & Girls, and the Grammy-winning follow-up 2016's Sound & Color.

Opener “Tea Time” is a soothing reintroduction to the group and the power and soul in Brittany Howard’s voice, which jostles for attention with the almost trip-hop grooves. It feels like two dancers deliberately slightly out of rhythm but totally in tune. It’s a real statement of intent and an immediate reassurance for long-term fans.

“Another Life” feels like an expansion of the sonic template laid by Sound & Color, the group effortlessly picking up where they left off. It wouldn’t be out of place among that record’s stellar collection of tracks, Howard’s vocals remaining pristine. It is the sound of all the components that make Alabama Shakes such a standout, firing on all cylinders.

It's a rare foray into familiar territory, however, and “Garden” quickly shakes things up. Starting in subdued fashion, it's a moody slow burn that gradually builds with strings simmering in the background and tinkling pianos. It is a different side to Alabama Shakes, but one that feels like a natural progression. It is smooth but with a darkness lurking underneath.

“American Dream”, released as one of the earliest glimpses at new material, feels confessional and raw, confronting the state of America in 2026. Full of looser grooves, Howard’s vocals fade in and out, often leaving the drums and bass in the forefront. This looseness is certainly a risk but one that commands the listener's attention, with explosive energy never far away. Each member is on hand to deliver a rallying cry.

This is the return that Alabama Shakes fans will have been hoping for. It is a linear progression from their stellar output to date, justifying the anticipation and wait. It is once again an eclectic tour de force built around Howard’s sublime vocals, top-drawer musicianship from the trio and first-rate production.

After such a long time away, I Must Be Dreaming feels organic and not forced in any way. This record is one that will happily sit alongside their prior work and Howard’s solo releases, a testament to their synergy and craft.