It shouldn't be a rare thing but it is: A young, critically lauded rock 'n' roll band ascends, even rockets to success on the strength of nothing but the force of its talent. Behold the latest evidence, "Always Alright," a new track from Alabama Shakes.

We've often said that a great music scene needs a great radio station to thrive. The same could be said for brick and mortar record stores. Our friends at Vintage Vinyl and Euclid Records prove that every day.

Each month, this site features numerous photography pieces based on the work of the intrepid members of KDHX's pool of volunteer photographers.

Tuesday night saw one of the hottest tickets of the year roll through town with the return of the wildly popular Alabama Shakes.

2:37 p.m. Finally arrived in Austin. Fourteen hours in the car is a long time, but such a trip can be made more palatable given some great company, fun conversation and stimulating tunes to wash it down. Such was my good fortune on the journey southwest down interstates 44 and 35.

Listen to the first single from Bruce Springsteen's new album, "Wrecking Ball," due out March 6.

Alabama Shakes turned out a solid performance on the Old Rock House stage proving that they are worthy of all the year end buzz.