Alabama 3 - Power in the blood Posted by AlMachine on Thursday, November 7, 2002 From New Jersey Mafioso gangsters to Brixton free party ravers, Alabama 3 have provided a soundtrack for outlaws in the most unlikely places in the West. Instantly recognisable, their cultish brand of uplifting righteousness raises more of a smile than a defiant fist, but do not overlook the substance behind the style. While many right-on anarcho-punk types are forgivably shunned for their tuneless attempts to barge their way into credibility, Alabama 3 present a stylish alternative for those who like their music to be….about stuff, y'know? And they make downright danceable tunes too - the press release includes a whole page written by Irvine Welsh about why Alabama 3 make him want to shake his ass more than any other music in the current post-rave club clutter. And there can't be many people reading this who haven't heard the band's most famous example - the 1997 single 'Woke up this morning' from the 3's first album 'Exile on Coldharbour Lane', chosen as the theme for HBO's hottest property The Sopranos. But if you imagine that with a touch more electro, mixed with some demonic Sheep On Drugs disco, then you're getting an idea of how the new album sounds. While techno, hard house and twisted gospel-blues might be unlikely bedfellows, I say try it - you just might like it. Alabama 3 are on tour next month - check www.Alabama3.co.uk for details. Laura