St. Paul & The Broken Bones are a powerhouse soul ensemble from Alabama known for their electrifying live shows and impassioned vocals. Formed in Birmingham in 2011, the band features Paul Janeway (vocals), Jesse Phillips (bass), Browan Lollar (guitar), Kevin Leon (drums), Al Gamble (keyboards), Allen Branstetter (trumpet), Chad Fisher (trombone), and Amari Ansari (saxophone).
Their new self-titled sixth album marks a creative renewal—melding the band’s adventurous spirit with a return to soulful, song-focused roots. Recorded at the legendary FAME Studios and produced by Eg White (Adele, Celine Dion), the record blends psych-funk grooves, gospel-tinged ballads, and cinematic rock flourishes. Tracks like “Sushi and Coca-Cola” and “Going Back” reflect both personal introspection and the band’s deepened identity after a decade of evolution.
St. Paul & The Broken Bones have shared stages with The Rolling Stones, Lizzo, and Black Pumas, and performed at major festivals like Coachella, Glastonbury, Lollapalooza, and Bonnaroo. Even Sir Elton John took notice, inviting them to perform
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Although the band didn't become active until 2012, Paul Janeway and Jesse Phillips actually met in the mid-2000s while both being part of another musical project. The pair reunited in 2012 in Ol' Elegante Studios in Birmingham, AL and began work on a new collaboration that would go on to be known as St. Paul and the Broken Bones. Through quite an organic movement, the two began working around Janeway's vocals before realising that the sounds created were all very soulful. After being joined by Browan Lollar, they recorded their first EP 'Greetings from St. Paul and The Broken Bones' before working out their live arrangements or gigging to crowds.
After a positive response the band quickly went on to begin recording sessions for the debut album 'Half the City'. It was at this time that keyboard player Al Gamble joined the operation and has remained a key element ever since. The production side was handled by Ben Tanner of Alabama Shakes fame.
The preceding critique of 'Half the City' was very positive and this strong recommendation along with a number of high profile television features and performances led onto good chart success. The debut album reached #3 on iTunes Top Albums charts and #56 on Billboard 200 charts. They supported the release with a worldwide tour, taking their sound to Europe where their music is lesser known.
I never knew this band existed until I saw them on CBS This Morning a few months ago. I fell in love! Looked at their website for a play schedule and found nothing close to DesMoines. THEN, lo & behold I received a heads up from Songkick that they were coming. I told about a dozen friends about them and we all went and THEY ROCKED THE HOUSE! I cant wait for their return! Thank you!