American Slang

Artist: The Gaslight Anthem
Label: SideOneDummy/Shock
Website: gaslightanthem.com

The critics praise who showered The '59 Sound [2008] had to really put the pressure on The Gaslight Anthem to equal or surpass its greatness with their third long player American Slang. The band might not quite have achieved that lofty goal but American Slang comes pretty damn close.

The record has 10 tightly packaged tracks that all have the pieces for success and instead of hiding from the Springsteen comparisons, lead singer Brian Fallon and the band embrace it. This style once again starts at the front, as Fallon has a confidence in his voice that transcends emotion, swagger and leadership just like the Boss.

American Slang is full of anthems that cover the lost vitality of youth and will easily connect with their wide spread aged audience and basically tells you to get over your glory days of the past and worry about today.

Most of the album's tracks are toe tappers with the exception of the excellent four minute ballad-esque type closer "We Did It When We Were Young". American Slang has everything that fans will want from The Gaslight Anthem with its layered background harmonies and band call outs behind Fallon's commanding vocals.

The album is just thirty-four minutes and is perfect for repeat plays, as it just gets more engaging with every listen. American Slang may not be their masterpiece yet but it affirms that The '59 Sound was no fluke and honestly we can't wait to hear what they do next.

Christopher Anthony

For more of Christopher Anthony's music reviews, check out The Fire Note