Ariella McManus has a sexy new ‘do, but cutting her hair hasn’t diminished the strength of this spectacular singer’s voice. As the focal point of Ari and the Alibis, McManus and bandmates are titans of the popular music scene around Tampa, Sarasota and St. Petersburg, but clearly deserve wider acclaim for Ari’s powerful pipes and the band’s unique sound, dubbed “multicultural fusion.”

And it’s coming, with a host of recent award nominations and a growing following across the US

The band also spread its wings in 2018 with performances in Ottawa and Hamilton and guitarist (and Ari’s husband) Nick Kraster told me they can’t wait to get back to Canada and that a visit (notwithstanding the pandemic) is in the works.

In the meantime, look out for them in the Bay area – Jen and I saw them earlier this year at Salty’s in cozy Gulfport/St. Pete on a unseasonably cold pre-Covid night that didn’t prevent the outdoor patio from being packed with loyal followers who sang, danced (and drank) through an extensive set list that covered both classics and original songs in a unique mix of funk, jazz and samba with blues, soul and rock – all brought together in a seamless signature style that gets the house rocking.

Ari (pronounced R.E.) is the star to be sure (with that voice, how could she not be?), but not to be discounted are bandmates Kraster, drummer Rob White, bassist Marvin Hendon II, and charismatic trombonist James Dabone, who comprise a tight backing unit that is occasionally allowed to venture out on its own.

But better to watch than read about them, so check out this sampler video, which gives a small taste of the band’s diverse style; or for a complete song, watch the lighthearted video for the title track from their album “HOME.”

Then, don’t forget to find them when you’re once again visiting St. Pete and environs. It’s a great night out. And, I suspect, a lot cheaper than what you’ll have to pay to see them in the future.