Brittany Howard redefines herself at Ryman Auditorium concert

About a decade ago, it was Nashville’s good fortune to be about a 90 minute drive from Athens, Alabama.

That meant that an unknown band from that small town — Alabama Shakes — would come here to play their first out-of-state gigs, record their debut and build an incredible (but deserved) amount of buzz.

Eight years, two smash albums and four Grammys later, that band’s leader was reintroducing herself to Music City — this time, as a solo artist.

Brittany Howard came to the Ryman Auditorium Monday to play her third show ever on her own, ahead of her upcoming solo debut, “Jaime.” 

“You know, the album don't come out until September 20th," Howard said from the stage. "But are y’all ready to open your minds and try it out?"

This was after a few songs, and by then, she likely knew the answer was an emphatic "Yes."

On Monday, Howard and her eight-piece band didn't play a single song by the Alabama Shakes, and only three tracks from "Jamie" have been heard by the public so far.

All eleven were unveiled on stage on Monday, revealing a dense and deeply personal listen, which finds Howard leaning into experimental R&B and funk more than ever.

Still, her Ryman audience — substantial, but not a sellout — didn't miss a step, filling every quiet space with cheers and cries of "We love you." 

Howard's joy was palpable during "Stay High," a sweet soul waltz inspired by her father. Her family surrounds "Jaime." The album is named after her older sister, who died at 13 from retinoblastoma.

Both of Howard's parents were in the audience on Monday. Her father, in fact, stood up and waved victoriously from the pews once Howard spotted him.

“Make sure you get his autograph on the way out,” she said. 

Dad was back on his feet for an electrifying take on Sam & Dave’s “When Something Is Wrong With My Baby.” Other covers included a version of "Revolution" that turned the Beatles classic on its ear, and Prince’s “The Breakdown,” which Howard said was the icon’s favorite song. She’d know, as she jammed with him shortly before his death. 

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As those selections suggest, Howard showed off some serious sonic range on Monday, and scored in every direction. A tender, solo acoustic slice — "Short and Sweet" — brought the room to a whisper, while one of the encore's fiery, funk-laced tunes brought most folks to their feet.

As strong as its groove was, it was actually Howard's message that lit the fuse. In the song, she railed against forces who aim to divide the masses.

"I repeat, it’s really easy," she shouted. "We are brothers and sisters."

Howard's tour continues August 23 at the 9:30 Club in Washington, D.C. "Jaime" will be released September 20.