When you Google The Gaslight Anthem up comes those “most asked” questions or what other people are asking about The Gaslight Anthem. Among them on my recent search was “What Kind of Music is the Gaslight Anthem?” and “Who is opening for the Gaslight Anthem” and “What Happened to Gaslight Anthem singer?”
This was the “answer” to the last question: “Best known as the frontman of The Gaslight Anthem, Brian Fallon is a musician, singer, and songwriter who hails from New Brunswick, New Jersey. Since the band went on indefinite hiatus, he’s been busy releasing four incredible albums since the launch of his solo career in 2016.”
Well, they did get “incredible albums” correct because if I’m honest I listen to those solo records more than the Gaslight Anthem – and I listen to them a lot. Painkillers, Sleepwalkers and Local Honey are all brilliant records. Check out the song “When You’re Ready” HERE
But back to The Gaslight Anthem and the first question. What kind of music? I would say it’s hard and modern rock and roll with a nod to classic rock. It’s both Pearl Jam and Bruce Springsteen. It’s a lot of rock with a little roll and exceptional lyrics. It’s also a very unique sound that is difficult to put a label on – which is a good thing.
They sound like, well, Gaslight Anthem.
A better question that people should be asking is why is Gaslight Anthem not bigger? They are like Graham Parker or John Hiatt or Nick Lowe or Jenny Lewis or Nick Cave or Kasey Chambers or Gillian Welch … huge and important talents with medium-sized followings.
I’ve been all in on Gaslight Anthem for years. I have all the records on vinyl and even have The B Sides disc and The Horrible Crowes 10 year anniversary record (features Fallon and Ian Perkins). Which brings us to the present and History Books, the latest album from the band and their sixth studio album and first since 2014’s Get Hurt.
The record is one of the band’s best and has them heading in a slightly different direction but with one foot firmly planted in that unique sound. The title track features Bruce Springsteen on vocals – Fallon and the boss have struck up a Jersey style friendship over the years. Fallon says it’s like going to see Batman when the two meet up whether in a studio or a pizza joint.
History Books features some brilliant tracks – one of my favorites is Michigan, 1975 – which of course made the setlist when the band played The Fillmore in Detroit on Sunday. But the song is not exclusive to Michigan – it’s been a staple on the band’s current tour. As it should be – great song that people need to hear!
The setlist at the Fillmore was a blistering run through the band’s impressive catalog and included American Slang, The 59 Sound, Mulholland Drive and Great Expectations. Songs from the new record included History Books, Positive Charge and Michigan 1975.
This show was very different from their previous stop at The Fillmore last year. Fallon spent a lot of time talking to the audience and telling some funny stories the first time around. This time, the band ripped through the songs at a pace just like the music – hard and fast. The band is in excellent form and all 22 songs hit the mark for an enthusiastic and appreciative crowd.
Another band folks should check out is Joyce Manor, a punk rock band from California, who opened the show for Gaslight Anthem. They looked like they were still in high school but rocked like seasoned veterans with a unique sound all their own. I was so impressed I bought a vinyl record and CD on my way out the door. That’s the great thing about seeing live music – you are often introduced to new music that really grabs your attention – and cash.
Check out upcoming shows at The Fillmore (right next to the Fox). It’s an amazing place to see a show and the sound is incredible. Check out shows HERE
And make sure to check out John Hiatt, Gillian Welch, Nick Cave and The Gaslight Anthem – they are all brilliant artists.
