GRAMMY-nominated Memphis-based roots, blues and soul band Southern Avenue have signed with legendary blues and roots label Alligator Records. Southern Avenue are known for their positive, message-driven original songs and their melting-pot mix of Memphis blues and soul, fueled by frontwoman Tierinii Jackson's soaring, gospel-inflected vocals and Israel-born Ori Naftaly's mesmerizing guitar work.
The band's as-yet-untitled Alligator Records debut, due later this year, was recorded in Memphis at the famous Royal Studios (Al Green, Ann Peebles, Bruno Mars). The album was produced by GRAMMY winner John Burk (Ray Charles, George Benson, Melissa Etheridge) and engineered by GRAMMY-winning producer and engineer Boo Mitchell.
Left to right: Jeremy Powell (Keys); Tikyra Jackson (Drums, Vocals); John Burk (Producer); Tierinii Jackson (Lead Vocals); Ori Naftaly (Guitars); Ava Jackson (Vocals, Percussion, Violin)
Southern Avenue overflows with thick grooves, memorable melodies, positive messages and hair-raising harmonies that would make The Staple Singers proud. The dynamic collective, more a family than a band, showcases the jaw-dropping talents of Memphis born-and-raised sisters -- lead vocalist/songwriter Tierinii Jackson, drummer/vocalist Tikyra "TK" Jackson and percussionist/violinist/vocalist Ava Jackson -- along with endlessly creative guitarist/songwriter Ori Naftaly and keyboardist Jeremy Powell. Tierinii's lyrics are defiant and straightforward, her mesmerizing vocals effortlessly moving from an emotional purr to an inspired and powerful roar, while the music explodes into a non-stop, all-inclusive celebration.
