Former Auburn students Hightide Blues have toured the country and are making their way back to Auburn this weekend. The guys are due to release a new album late in the summer, which will be their first full-length album.

The band gained national acclaim with their last EP, “Love Come Easy,” but their new album has what guitarist Jonathan Pears calls a “bigger sound.”

After several years of non-stop touring, the guys settled in Nashville last fall and decided to take a break from touring. They took that time to dive headfirst into the Nashville music scene and rediscover why they loved playing music.

“That’s what the new record is ... it’s kind of us diving headfirst into the Nashville scene and trying to become a bigger sound.” Pears said.

Pears said that the bigger sound leans more towards rock than southern rock.

“It’s definitely more of a rock album,” he said. “‘Love Come Easy’ is more of a rootsy kind of album and being on the road for two years after that album was made turned us into more of a rock band. This album is definitely more rock ‘n’ roll and not nearly as rootsy as the old one.”

The new album was produced by Dan Hannon who produced Manchester Orchestra's last two albums.

“We’re really excited about what he can do,” Pears said.

Pears did clarify that their former sound is still there.

“It’s not hard rock, but it’s definitely a rock album,” Pears said. “The vibe from our old stuff is still there, but it’s definitely a bigger sound. We’re kinda going for a sound that can be heard around the world as opposed to just a rootsy kinda southern sound.”

Pears said that one difference between their sound and most rock bands is the element of being able to swing your hips.

“Rock ‘n’ roll has kinda lost its swing and is more driving rock,” Pears said. “We tried to have a relevant sound but bring an old school swing to it where it still makes you shake your hips.”

Hightide Blues will take the stage around 10 p.m. at Bourbon Street Saturday. Atlanta musician Tim Brantley will open the show. A portion of the proceeds from the show will benefit the East Alabama Food Bank.

For more on the band, visit hightideblues.com.