"Sound & Color" is the second studio album by the American rock band Alabama Shakes, released on April 21, 2015. Here are some interesting facts about the album:
Critical Acclaim: "Sound & Color" received widespread critical acclaim and was praised for its sonic experimentation, powerful vocals, and genre-blending approach. It won several Grammy Awards, including Best Alternative Music Album.
Genre Diversity: The album showcases a diverse range of musical styles, including rock, blues, soul, and psychedelic influences. It marked a departure from the more straightforward blues-rock sound of their debut album, "Boys & Girls."
Title Track Inspiration: The title track, "Sound & Color," is an instrumental piece that sets the tone for the album. Brittany Howard, the lead singer, has mentioned that the track was inspired by her experiences with synesthesia, a condition where one sensory or cognitive pathway leads to automatic, involuntary experiences in a second sensory or cognitive pathway. The song attempts to capture the experience of seeing colors in music.
Innovative Production: The album's production, led by producer Blake Mills, is notable for its innovative use of studio techniques and unconventional instruments. The band experimented with different sounds and textures, creating a more layered and intricate musical landscape.
Grammy Success: "Sound & Color" earned Alabama Shakes three Grammy Awards in 2016. The awards included Best Alternative Music Album, Best Rock Performance for "Don't Wanna Fight," and Best Engineered Album, Non-Classical.
Breakthrough Success: While Alabama Shakes gained attention with their debut album, "Boys & Girls," it was "Sound & Color" that solidified their status as a major force in the music industry. The album's success contributed to the band's increased popularity and critical acclaim.
Commercial Success: The album debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart, making it Alabama Shakes' first chart-topping album. Its commercial success reflected the band's ability to appeal to a broad audience with their unique and genre-defying sound.
"Sound & Color" is widely regarded as a pivotal moment in Alabama Shakes' career, showcasing their musical evolution and establishing them as a band capable of pushing creative boundaries.