If you live in Alabama or Georgia, you've probably heard of the band Highly Kind at some point in your life.

The band, which hails from Gadsden, has been a staple on the college circuit for years and is popular among fraternities and sororities at AU and UA.
Gracing halls from Mobile to Huntsville, from Auburn to Tuscaloosa and beyond, the band has honed its sound from a Grateful Dead-inspired jam band to far more than that description implies.

Led by guitarist, singer, songwriter and general guru Albert Simpson, this band has seen a parade of fine musicians participate in the growth and development of its style and direction.

Over the last few years, the core of the band has remained constant.

At last, the band has put together their debut studio effort titled “Don't Wake Albert.”

The album features production by the legendary Johnny Sandlin, who is known for his work with rock icons of like the Allman Brothers Band, Widespread Panic and Aquarium Rescue Unit.

In addition to Simpson, Trey Evans tickles the ivories, Kevin Scott lends his bass magic and Duane Trucks demonstrates that there is more than one superstar in his family as he drums with the same level of ability as brother Derek exhibits on the guitar.

For good measure, about half a dozen of the tracks feature talents Randall Bramblett, Walt Aldridge, James Pennebacker, Joe Keracher, Darryl Tibbs and Amanda Quaries, which makes one great album.

The real surprise is newcomer Josh Gooch, a youngster who shows amazing prowess on the guitar.

He is featured on six of the twelve tracks and is now a real member of the band.

Gooch takes the already great album to newfound heights of excellence.

Gooch coupled with the fine songwriting of Simpson, Bramblett, Aldridge and others, makes this one album you're sure to enjoy and cherish.

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