Alabama Shakes have returned with their first album in 11 years, marking a notable evolution from the raw blues-infused sound that garnered them acclaim in their early career. The American band, now a trio following the departure of drummer Steve Johnson, released "I Must Be Dreaming," an album recorded in Nashville with producer Shawn Everett. The new work spans a broad musical landscape, blending elements of 1970s soul and expansive guitar rock.

The group initially gained attention with their 2012 debut, "Boys & Girls," which featured straightforward arrangements and showcased the powerful vocals of frontwoman Brittany Howard. At that stage, Howard’s singing drew comparisons to iconic artists such as Janis Joplin and Aretha Franklin. Their 2015 follow-up, "Sound & Color," expanded the band’s reach, earning three Grammy Awards. Following that success, Howard pursued a solo career collaborating with artists including Paul McCartney, Bon Iver, and composer Ludwig Göransson.

Now in their late 30s and early 40s, the band’s thematic focus has shifted. The youthful introspection of their early work has given way to more mature love songs and reflective social commentary. The album title itself, "I Must Be Dreaming," captures this duality, reflecting both the challenging and beautiful aspects of the current era.

Tracks like "Another Life" present an emotionally vulnerable Howard singing about remorse and the possibility of healing, while "Garden" offers a lush soul ballad. "Time" emphasizes the importance of savoring moments with loved ones, highlighted by improvisational guitar and bass lines from Heath Fogg and Zac Cockrell. Meanwhile, the band explores new textures, from flute accents on "Tea Time" to distorted guitars on "Waist Deep," signaling a willingness to experiment beyond their established sound.

Producer Shawn Everett, known for his work on Brandon Flowers’ recent album, opts for a naturalistic approach, avoiding excessive polish. The album also includes thoughtful protest songs that avoid overt preachiness. For instance, "I Feel Hope Coming" conveys a sense of cautious optimism, while "American Dream" addresses pressing issues such as environmental degradation, women’s rights, and gun violence.

A distinctive example of the band’s unconventional approach appears on the closing ballad, "Tied To You." During the recording process, a technical glitch caused two vocal tracks to play simultaneously. Instead of correcting the error, Alabama Shakes chose to retain the effect, resulting in an eerie, disorienting sound that underscores their refusal to rest on past successes.

With "I Must Be Dreaming," Alabama Shakes deliver a collection that balances musical growth with an authentic and unvarnished portrayal of contemporary life, signaling their continued relevance in an ever-changing musical landscape.