The Alabama Shakes rock 'SNL'

Have you heard the Alabama Shakes? If you answered "yes" to that question, than I really don't need to tell you anything more. You're nodding your head, I see you. If you said "no," well then, listen up: This is a band you need to hear. Now.

Just a few short years ago, Alabama Shakes lead singer Brittany Howard was working as a postal worker in rural Alabama, with big dreams of making music. She and band mates Zac Cockrell and Steve Johnson toiled away at rehearsals, and eventually, they were discovered.

The rest, as they say, is music history. Now, the Alabama Shakes are Grammy nominees and they've opened on tour for the likes of Neil Young and Crazy Heart. Oh, and they were also the musical guest on Saturday Night Live this past weekend. And boy, did they wow us.

I've taken great interest in following the Alabama Shakes, because they are a local band for me. I'm quite proud whenever any local music acts hit it big, and none have hit it bigger than the Shakes. So yeah, I'm totally biased. Their debut album, Boys & Girls, was my favorite rock album of 2012. I saw them live with Neil Young in Tuscaloosa, and less than one month later, I saw them play a surprise show at a tiny little bar called Egan's on the University of Alabama campus. Trust me when I tell you they do not disappoint live.

If you need proof, just take a look and listen to Brittany Howard and the Alabama Shakes belting out an incredible version of "Always Alright," a song included on the soundtrack for the Oscar-nominated film Silver Linings Playbook, on Saturday Night Live. Folks, this is raw, unpolished, incredibly real rock and soul. Brittany is the real deal, all the way, and I am in awe of her talent. You can check out both Alabama Shakes SNL performances on the band's official website, and there's also a free download available of "Always Alright." You're welcome.

If you get the chance to see an Alabama Shakes show this year, take it. You won't be sorry. I'm keeping my ear to the ground here in hopes of another "surprise" bar show.

Photo courtesy of Billboard.com