America might not be the same place it was since Alabama Shakes last played venues across the country. A lengthy hiatus resulted in some major changes to the band’s makeup while its Grammy-winning songs cemented the group as something of modern-day legends.
The February announcement of a reunion tour and word of new songs on the way came as big news, but what was little surprise to anyone was to see many of the 30+ dates sell out in short time.
This past Friday night, those lucky enough to possess tickets packed into The Anthem to witness Alabama Shakes light up the state-of-the-art concert space in DC’s waterfront Wharf.
Led by intrepid vocalist and lead guitarist Brittany Howard, the Athens, Alabama-born group blasted more than 20 songs the evening of Sept. 19, including the newest single, “Another Life,” and several of the Shakes’ most celebrated tracks.
Hear the latest single from Alabama Shakes, “Another Life,” on Spotify:
Onlookers were shoulder to shoulder on the lowest level and overflowing from the seats high above for what was a thunderous and breathtaking performance by Howard and two of her original bandmates, guitarist Heath Fogg and bassist Zac Cockrell.
Joined by three backup singers and an assortment of additional musicians, the Shakes showed they’ve not lost a step through tumultuous and strange times.
Recently nominated for a Grammy for her latest solo album WHAT NOW, Howard was dressed in a sparkling gown of tassels and armed with any of her various electric guitars. She’d throw her head back and scream at the top of her lungs to a room that was in awe of her from start to finish.
Howard and the Shakes dazzled across a powerful set that featured all but a few tunes from the band’s 2015 masterpiece, Sound & Color, including a howling take on “Future People” to kick off the memorable night and a gorgeous version of “This Feeling.”
Walking about the stage to deliver “Joe,” another song that earned the band a Grammy nomination, Howard glowed and poured her heart out, using her soulful voice to remarkable effect and showing herself to be without compare.
Those in attendance heard an unfamiliar tune in “American Dream,” but they enjoyed Shakes favorites like “Hold On” from the group’s 2012 premiere, Boys & Girls, and “Always Alright,” the immortal single released the following year.
Everyone on hand in the nation’s capital also heard the genuine expression of gratitude from the talented band leader.
“We just really appreciate you coming out and doing whatever you had to do to get here tonight,” said Howard, who on this tour has used her fashion and her platform to voice displeasure about particular recent government actions and decisions.
“We just want to tell you we appreciate each and every one of you. It’s because of you that we can be here tonight. Thank you for coming back after so long,” she said.
Setlist
Future People
Hang Loose
Dunes
I Found You
Guess Who
Hold On
This Feeling
Joe
Another Life
Over My Head
Rise to the Sun
Shoegaze
Someday
Gemini
Sound & Color
Don’t Wanna Fight
Be Mine
Gimme All Your Love
Encore
American Dream
Drive By Baby
Always Alright
Below are digital shots of Alabama Shakes along with opening act The Budos Band performing the night of Sept. 19, 2025, at The Anthem in Washington, DC. All images copyright and courtesy of Casey Ryan Vock.
Alabama Shakes
The Budos Band
