Release date: 07-07-2008

2008 UK limited edition 12-track 2-LP vinyl set - The Hold Steady return with an album of life affirming, classic rock and roll; including the single 'Sequestered In Memphis' plus the Bonus Recording 'Ask HerFor Adderall', presented in a gatefold picture sleeve

Tracks:
01. Constructive Summer
02. Sequestered In Memphis
03. One For The Cutters
04. Navy Sheets
05. Yeah Sapphire
06. Lord, I'm Discouraged
07. Both Crosses
08. Stay Positive
09. Joke About Jamaica
10. Ask Her For Adderall - Bonus Recording
11. Magazines
12. Slapped Actress

Hookers, low lifes, townies, druggies, murderers, junkies, drop outs, boozers, brawlers and losers.

Such is the canvas that Craig Finn writes about in this jaw dropping record. A record that, for me, might just define Rock and Roll. I know, it’s an outrageous claim, but have you heard it? It’s on a level with the way that, for me at least, London Calling defines punk, Reproduction defines electronica, and G.P./Grevious Angel defines country.

I’ve been hanging onto this one for a while because I know I can go over the top about great stuff that melts like spring snow as soon as the initial rush of enthusiasm dies down. But that’s not the case here. For a start, on first listening I was mildly disappointed. It didn’t seem to have quite the same shock value of hearing a band like this for the first time that its predecessor, the sublime ‘Boys and Girls in America’ did.

But take it from me that this is on a different level. The aforementioned lyrics (they are poems unfolding as bleak, heartfelt stories of subcool America) are at times heartbreaking. The choruses are shriek out loud singalong. I cannot wait to see them live agian. It will be a very hoarse experience

But they are beautiful, haunting and I can’t actually sleep at night for singing them in my head.

And there’s a harpsichord on track three - the blood and guts, did she didn’t she murder him, morality tale that is One for the Cutters.

I will state here and now though that this in no way dilutes my total and utter admiration for Dig Lazarus Dig by Nick Cave.

What a year for rock and roll.

Thank you Hold Steady.
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