The Alabama Shakes that rose from a small town to become one of indie rock’s biggest bands had four people in it. Now it’s just three. Drummer Steve Johnson, whose beats helped made signature Shakes songs like “Hold On” and “Always Alright” so cathartic and danceable, isn’t part of the band’s recent reunion.

The Alabama Shakes reunion, which began in Tuscaloosa on Dec. 18 at the Bama Theatre, may be expanding into more live work and possible recordings.

Following a surprise comeback show in 2024, Alabama Shakes are bringing their reunion into the new year, with confirmation of new music. The band confirmed their intentions to return with new music in a post shared to Instagram on Monday (Jan.