ALBUM REVIEWS
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ALBUM REVIEWS |
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The Gaslight Anthem
The Gaslight Anthem SIDEONEDUMMY RECORDS 14.6.10 @www.vanguard-online.co.uk
Following last year's acclaimed album 'The '59' Sound', this New Jersey quartet had a lot to live up to. The album had been named one of the best albums of the year and The Gaslight Anthem won 'Best International Newcomer' at the Kerrang! Awards. 'New Slang' isn't as raw or edgy as its predecessor. It's a more polished affair. This isn't a bad thing though, it's (in the most simplest of terms) classic rock. I first listened to this album whilst driving down some quiet country roads in Ireland (I kid you not!) and it was the perfect soundtrack to a road trip! Windows down, volume cranked up and friends singing along. Whether this is what they intended or not I don't know, but it sure worked for me! The opening title track is energetic; 'Stay Lucky' has a repetitive and catchy hook that I couldn't get out of my head for days. Whilst the album is obviously influenced by the likes of Springsteen, 'Bring it On' and 'The Queen of Lower Chelsea' encapsulate that sound the most. 'The Diamond Church Street Choir' almost seems like it could have been penned by The Counting Crows, melodic with a funk based rhythm and catchy chorus. The whole album is driven by Horowitz's drums. Add to these Levine's driving bass and Catchy hooks provided by Fallon and Rosamilia as well as Fallon's scratchy vocals then the band are onto a winner. Whilst some have said that this album is a regression from their previous release as it seems to have lost the edgy, punky sound that they are capable of, I don't agree. Their punk influences are still there – The Gaslight Anthem have just grown up. This is not an album to listen to as back ground music or when you are travelling to work. It's an album that you need to move to, sing along to. Go on, have a listen. I defy you to keep still!! gaslightanthem.com |
