When Brittany Howard, the powerhouse frontwoman of Alabama Shakes, retreated to Nashville amidst the global pandemic, she found solace and inspiration in Stevie Wonder’s “Songs in the Key of Life.” This period of introspection and musical immersion fueled the creation of her second solo album, “What Now,” a project that marks a significant departure from her debut and a deeper exploration into the realms of jazz, R&B, soul, house, and metal. Howard’s approach to this album was not driven by a singular concept but emerged from a need for emotional expression, resulting in a collection that is as varied in its sound as it is unified in its intent.
Sonic Experimentation
“What Now” stands as a testament to Howard’s versatility and willingness to experiment. From the Prince-inspired “Power to Undo” to the Radiohead-esque “Every Color in Blue,” Howard deftly navigates through an array of musical landscapes. An interlude featuring a poem by Dr. Maya Angelou further enriches the album’s texture, highlighting Howard’s commitment to blending musical and literary art forms. The track “Red Flags” exemplifies this blend, mixing doo-wop with metal riffs to convey a complex emotional narrative, showcasing Howard’s ability to find harmony in seemingly discordant elements.
Collaborative Creativity
The album’s production saw Howard collaborating closely with Shawn Everett, a renowned producer known for his work with artists like SZA and Miley Cyrus. Everett praises Howard’s openness and creativity, underscoring the collaborative spirit that permeated the recording sessions. This partnership facilitated the birth of tracks like “Prove It to You,” a dance number that juxtaposes upbeat rhythms with introspective lyrics, embodying the dualities that define much of Howard’s work.
Healing Sounds
Integral to the album’s identity is the use of crystal singing bowls, incorporated as a means of sonic healing and emotional grounding. This choice reflects Howard’s personal experiences with sound therapy and her desire to offer listeners a form of musical respite. Tracks are interspersed with these calming tones, serving as palate cleansers and fostering a cohesive listening experience that invites introspection and healing.
Reflecting on the World
Amidst personal explorations and sonic experiments, Howard does not shy away from engaging with the broader socio-political landscape. The song “Another Day” responds to the tumultuous events of recent years, including the Black Lives Matter movement, capturing the dissonance of experiencing personal joy in a world marked by strife. The album’s closing track, “Every Color In Blue,” leaves listeners with a poignant reminder of the unresolved nature of life, encapsulating the album’s thematic essence—questioning, exploration, and the search for meaning.
As Brittany Howard looks ahead, her sights are set on further musical explorations, hinting at the possibility of a metal project. This direction, driven by a desire for raw expression, underscores Howard’s relentless pursuit of artistic authenticity and evolution, making “What Now” not just an album, but a milestone in her journey as a musician.