The Hold Steady are often cited as "America's greatest bar band." I don't listen to a lot of bar bands, or really even know what constitutes a bar band, but I sure dig these guys. They first came on the scene in 2004 with their debut "Almost Killed Me," but I didn't catch on until 2006 with "Boys and Girls in America."
Their songs have a raw, almost classic rock feel to them, with catchy riffs and extended solos. It's impossible not to get caught up in the shout-out choruses. But what really sets these guys apart is Craig Finn's lyrics. He tells stories of people whose lives have been made and broken, ruined by drugs or alcohol, or encountered a crisis of faith. Their 2005 album "Separation Sunday" was basically a concept album about a girl trying to find her faith through drugs and alcohol. Their newest record, "Stay Positive" was just released, and I'm already addicted. It's a collection of great summer songs, full of optimism and heartache. I saw them last year in SLC, and all this emotion is even more potent in a live setting. So, Mad Props to The Hold Steady. Thanks for your testament to rousing, thick, spirited rock and roll.
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