Alanna Royale’s debut album, "Achilles" has been out since September 16th. However, October 4th will be when the band, friends, and special guests ring it in proper with an epic show at Exit/In. Because an album that is the culmination of two years of establishing the Royale name through heavy touring and intensive mind-blowing, not to mention a little, potentially career-ending brush with a hemorrhaging vocal cord demands a celebration. The band has been lauded for their airtight brass section almost as much as Royale’s staggering stage presence, both of which will be in full-force on Saturday, as their joined by Kansas Bible Company and ELEL (fingers crossed that all groups joined Royale on stage for a final number. Just to prove the integrity of the venue’s support structures.)
While the show is sure to be a high-energy stiletto kick in the nuts, “Achilles" explores several dynamic avenues: sweet and wistful on “Phantom Limb,” fierce and vengeful on “Animal,” to maybe a little funky on “Big Time Me.” This magazine is partial to “Rock and Stone;" we interpret it as a neo-soul version of Reba McIntire’s “Fancy” (sans the prostitution bent. We’re focusing more on the process of a woman coming into her own.) and we love the addition of the string section of since the track’s appearance on their 2013 EP. “Achilles” is a showcase of the band’s tested mettle, and their, as the opening lyrics of “Last to Know” perfectly sums up “backbone for days.” Saturday’s show starts at 8pm, and cover is $10. We’ll be amazed if it doesn’t sell out. –Terra James-Jura