Alabama 3 - Hits and Exit Wounds
(One Little Indian)
http://www.alabama3.co.uk/

When trying to describe Alabama 3’s catalogue the word “intriguing” certainly comes to mind. A group of individuals with similar tastes, the band came together with the objective of blending genres such as country and western with acid house. It is safe to say: mission accomplished.

Their latest release, Hits and Exit Wounds, a compilation of greatest hits, is composed of songs that display the varied yet cohesive style the band has been developing since their debut, Exile on Coldharbour Lane, in 1997. Hypo Full of Love introduces the listener to the band and serves as a good illustration as to why their original name was The First Presleyterian Church Of Elvis The Divine (UK) as A3 (where all members have taken on a pseudonym with a “Love” surname or a loose spiritual allusion) lead a cynical sermon on the ills of the world over a dark sonic backdrop while still exhibiting gospel influences. On Mansion On The Hill and U Don’t Danse To Tekno Anymore, trance and blues roots shine through respectively with the latter serving as an interesting ode to the dance scene.

The standout tracks are those where Alabama 3’s genre mashing is most successful. How Can I Protect You, Ain’t Goin To Goa, and Woke Up This Morning (of Soprano’s fame) blend the band’s western, hip-hop, and house influences seamlessly. You should know what to expect if you are already familiar with A3, but those who aren’t shouldn’t be surprised if they find themselves listening to, to quote one of the Love brothers, “sweet g*****n pretty motha'f****n' country acid house music all night long”.

Coren J. Cogdell