The Gaslight Anthem – American Slang

Admittedly, I was a bit late coming to the Gaslight Anthem party. I didn’t fall in love with The ’59 Sound until a year after it had planted roots in the consciousness of the American music culture. I’m still not sure why it took so long to soak in for me, but I’m grateful it did. 

During the down time between The ’59 Sound and American Slang I dug into the band’s back catalog and greatly enjoyed what I found. American Slang, however, is by far the band’s most mature work to date. Chock full of their trademark nostalgic lyrics and heartfelt riffs -American Slang is quite possibly one of the most important albums of 2010.

The startling difference between The ’59 Sound and American Slang is the aural weight between the two. The former hangs on you like your favorite t-shirt, providing a sense of comfort and reliability, but without being obvious. The latter is more like being behind the wheel of your first car, years after you’ve owned it; a visible sense of accomplishment and appreciation for your efforts but from the perspective of added maturity.

American Slang has a darker atmosphere to it, but not in a depressive, bummed out way. Rather the tales coming from a view of looking back, but not holding on; a realistic, cut and dry viewpoint that acknowledges past times but does not lament for their passing. “So don't sing me your songs about the good times / Those days are gone and you should just let them go,” sings frontman Brian Fallon on “Old Haunts” (who has NEVER sounded better vocally) “Old haunts are for forgotten ghosts.”

It’s abundantly clear to me that The Gaslight Anthem will be a part of the American musical landscape for years and years to come, much like Springsteen (whom they are oft compared to) and Social Distortion. The difference is their importance is a slow burner. One day the nation will wake up and realize just how essential musicians like these guys are. Until then, I’m happy to champion them to those who haven’t heard them and keep them as an underground sensation.


 

Captain Morgan
Big Wheel Music Reporter
 

 

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