The Alabama Shakes mainspring’s first solo release showcases R&B borne of a dark, introspective place, grooving like a 35-minute scream into a pillow. Most striking is the secular gospel of “He Loves Me,” which maintains God’s love despite Brittany Howard’s drinkin’/smokin’ ways. The ambient funk of “Goat Head” muses on growing up mixed race: “Who slashed my dad’s tires and put a goat head in the back?” “13th Century Metal” channels Sly Stone’s discordant There’s a Riot Goin’ On to “oppose those whose will is to divide us and who are determined to keep us in the dark ages of fear.” Howard’s offered a salve laced with sand. (Saturday, 4pm, Honda stage)

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This article appears in October 4 • 2019.

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Tim Stegall contributed to The Austin Chronicle 1991-1995, and was a staff writer 1995-1997. He returned as a contributor in 2013. He has also freelanced for publications ranging from Flipside to Alternative Press to Guitar World. He plays punk rock guitar and sings in the Hormones.