Tuesday, 3 Oct 2006
If you’re a fan of The Hold Steady then there are two things you need to buy today. First, grab yourself a copy of their latest album, Boys & Girls in America then head over to iTunes and download their set from this year’s Lollapalooza. I picked up the latter before heading to work this morning, and I must say not only is the sound quality pristine, but it’s perfect for reliving one of my favorite sets from the Lollapalooza weekend.
I’ll admit I like this band because some of the things Craig Finn sings about remind me of myself some 7 or 8 years ago. While I can barely relate to anything he’s singing about these days, it is sure fun to listen to and live vicariously through. Much like the recent Lucero release, I find myself hearing a sprinkling of The Boss throughout this record. I’m not sure I agree that this is the album that defines the band; I really like their previous two albums, but the album does deserve your attention and all the positive press it’s gotten.
Maybe you’re a partier and these songs are somewhat autobiographical for your late night/early morning escapades. Perhaps you were a partier and these songs are the sweet memories that remind you of your wild and exuberant youth. It’s very possible you fall into neither previous category, but you still love rock and roll, and therefore love this band. Whatever your background this new album is guaranteed to please your ears, spend your money on it.
Things to check out:
The Hold Steady Guide To The Twin Cities - More Cowbell
A Guide to the Hold Steady States of America - NY Times
Pitchfork Media Review [9.4]
October 3rd, 2006 at 4:42 pm
Just a SPRINKLING of the Boss?! I categorize this band for people who have never heard them as what Bruce and the E Street Band would have sounded like had they grown up listening to the Clash and the Ramones rather than the Rolling Stones.
I love this new album…
October 3rd, 2006 at 4:56 pm
Great write-up. I can definitely relate to the lyrics to my former high school and college escapades. I also hear a lot of the “Boss” sprinkles throughout along with some Allman Brothers-esque guitar riffs.
Have you been listening to the new Decemberists? I’m half way through and absolutely kicks ass.
There’s almost too much good music coming out at once!
October 3rd, 2006 at 8:39 pm
Really? I’m a human being. I have a background. And I think this album and this band sucks.
The new Decemberists, on the other hand - brilliant.
October 3rd, 2006 at 8:47 pm
Just downloaded it from eMusic and am listening now. Also dled the new Pernice Brothers and bought hardcopies of the Beck and Decemberists. Lotsa listening to do…
October 4th, 2006 at 5:21 am
Harry, I guess it’s not for everyone. I will admit that I think the Decemberists are the worst band in a live setting. So I guess we don’t see eye to eye on new releases this week. It’s all good…thanks for stopping by.