Hits and Exit Wounds

Artist - Alabama 3
Album - Hits and Exit Wounds
Label - Pinnacle

Alabama 3 are a band from Brighton who sound like some ultra-modern Southern Gospel psych hip-hop Delta Blues band with an abiding passion for Johnny Cash.

Most famous for providing the instantly-recognisable theme to The Sopranos (Woke Up This Morning, which actually details an abusive relationship), this compilation's title, Hits and Exit Wounds, is a clear reference to that profile - the band haven't enjoyed many 'hits', although they have enjoyed huge critical success over the course of 6 studio albums and remarkable live sets.

With a profile a little like Fun Lovin' Criminals (and similar themes), the 8-piece band's fusion of styles, and often humorous lyrics, makes them a compelling listen.

The band's first single Ain't Going To Goa took a wonderfully cynical view of backpackers - 'fools lying on a Third World beach'.

Hits and Exit Wounds takes a fair slice through the 6 albums, and forms a great way in for any potential fan of the band.

Some songs will divide opinion (Ska'd For Life, for example), but these 18 songs include at least a dozen that you'll fall for deeply - the pulsating bass, wit, country and blues mix and the hypnotic rhythms that contribute to this band's unique sound.

Rating 8/10
Mike Rea

10:59am Tuesday 6th May 2008

Print   Email this   Comment