Billy Allen and The Pollies Live at World Cafe

In a captivating mini-concert today, Billy Allen and Jay Burgess showcased their musical synergy, highlighting a story of connection and collaboration. Both seasoned session musicians at the iconic Fame Recording Studios in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, Allen and Burgess had previously pursued individual projects—Allen as a solo artist and Burgess as the founder of the band The Pollies. Their paths converged during a session for Little Richard's "Greenwood, Mississippi," leading to the formation of their collaborative project, Billy Allen + The Pollies. The duo's retro blues rock sound has garnered attention from notable artists, including Brittany Howard of Alabama Shakes and Jason Isbell, who has invited them to open for several of his shows. Their unique blend of musical styles has resonated with audiences, setting the stage for their upcoming debut album, "Black Noise," which is set to release later this year. During the 2024 NON-COMMvention in Philadelphia, the band performed several new tracks from the album, offering a glimpse into their evolving sound. The live audience was treated to a dynamic showcase that underscored the chemistry between Allen and Burgess, as well as their commitment to their craft. This episode of World Cafe, produced by Will Loftus, highlights the collaborative spirit of the music industry, with contributions from senior producer Kimberly Junod, engineer Chris Williams, and programming coordinator Chelsea Johnson, all working to bring this musical journey to life.