The Hold Steady are a band that has grown on me quite a bit this year. When Boys And Girls In America came out in 2006 I avoided it generally because I didn't much care for their previous LP, and I also didn't like the ridiculous amount of unwavering hype and support Pitchfork was giving a band that didn't seem like they deserved it. Or rather, a band that produced an album solely for the comfort of Pitchfork writers. I know that's not the way it went down, but that's how it seemed.
So I've warmed up to BAGIA quite a bit, particularly the first three tracks (the rest of the album sinks from there, for lack of variety and bite). I wondered how the band might sound if they didn't have such a loud and heavy sound, one that masks imperfections while it simplifies and overextends the guitar-driven melodies and straightens the vocals a bit. Enter the "Stuck Between Stations" single and a recent acoustic performance.
The following two songs are acoustic versions of two of my favorite songs from BAGIA. I'd love to say something positive about them, but I'm completely unimpressed. Here, Craig Finn's vocals reveal their true colors, one of inexperience and a general lack of singing talent. That hasn't stopped me from liking a band before, and it won't stop me from appreciating what I can of The Hold Steady. But damn, he could at least try to sing on key...and on time...and like he cares.
[MP3] The Hold Steady - Stuck Between Stations (Acoustic)
[MP3] The Hold Steady - Chips Ahoy! (Acoustic)
For comparison:
[MP3] The Hold Steady - Chips Ahoy! (Album Version)
Official Site | MySpace Site | More MP3s | Buy Boys And Girls In America
9 comments:
I'm surprised by your disapproval of The Hold Steady.
While I despise the Pitchfork hype machine just as much as the next guy (see Simian Mobile Disco), The Hold Steady are arguably this generation's answer to Bruce Springsteen. Their music often doesn't sound polished, nor is especially innovative, but it captures the rugged nature of American youth like no other act today.
Do yourself a favor, and take another listen to "Separation Sunday". Really listen to the lyrics. I think you'll notice layers you haven't before, and find yourself pleasantly surprised.
Craig Finn's vocals reveal their true colors, one of inexperience and a general lack of singing talent.
Inexperience? How long does someone need to have a gig in indie rock? Finn sang for Lifter Puller from 1994 onward. Who knows before that, but I'm guessing you were still in high school then so what does it matter.
I actually prefer the second half of "Boys And Girls In America" (Citrus, Chillout Tent, You Can Make Him Like You, etc.).
And someone beat me to mentioning the "inexperienced" comment.
As for the singing style, this is the most melodic i've ever heard Finn. Im guessing your not a fan of The Silver Jews...
lamest band ever.
I think you're missing the asthetic here... it's all about the lyrics anyway.
if you saw them live you'd see that craig, and the whole band, DO care. very much.
and i agree with what invisible shield said.
hence my silver jews comment. basically poetry set to music, no need to complain about singing style.
thank you thank you thank you
i like this band okay, i agree that the album peters off after a few tracks. more so, however, i really appreciate your unabashed disapproval of one of "those bands" that if you don't like it it's because you don't get it. I get it, but i don't like it. ditto for the acoustic stuff.
Saw them live yesterday and agree w/previous poster: "lamest band ever." Insipid spawn of lame Dave Matthews and lamer Blues Traveler. Schlumpy noveau Brooklynite fans drinking Snapples and standing up in rapt attention blocking the view for the chill folks hanging on blankets and lawnchairs on the hill. Only halfway through did I realize they were doing us a favor!
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