It’s easy to see why the Alabama Shakes are one of the break-out acts of SXSW 2012: One earful of Brittany Howard’s strong, emotive voice (backed by the quartet’s hard-fought punk-blues) and you’re mesmerized. For our intimate performance series In My Room, Hive and Yours Truly caught up with the Alabama Shakes at the Hive House in Austin, where the band played us the title track from their excellent debut album Boys & Girls along with the gritty “I Ain’t the Same.” Note that the performances were outdoors on the picturesque — and chicken-filled — grounds around the Hive House. Seeing the Shakes al fresco is a rare and special treat.

And if this isn’t enough Alabama Shakes for one day, Hive is streaming their full concert tonight, April 10 at 9pm EST, live from the Studio at Webster Hall. Bookmark the Alabama Shakes Live in NYC event page to catch the show.