Out of the Garden State of New Jersey, The Gaslight Anthem has seen many changes through the years. Unique to many other bands coming out in the mid 2000s, their sound is best described as Punk Rock mixed with more Roots Rock influences. Styling heard on 07’s Sink or Swim and 08’s The ’59 Sound, it only expanded even further with follow up releases such as 2012’s Handwritten. A perfect mix of thoughtful songwriting and catchy more Pop Punk melodies, they are a great band for modern listeners to look into for something more than skin deep.
However, the journey has not been a steady line, because in 2015 they went on an indefinite hiatus. Returning for some reunions in the years to follow, it still has been nearly a decade since The Gaslight Anthem has released an album. A long time, a spark of excitement came in April of 2023 when they released the single “Positive Charge.” Creating interest among longtime fans, perhaps the biggest moment came back in July when they not only announced there would in fact be a new record, but they released another single with none other than Bruce Springsteen joining on vocals! Titled “History Books,” the single also bears the name of the record, and finally on October 27th the entire new collection arrived.
Released through Rich Mahogany Records, the core of Brian Fallon (lead vocals, rhythm guitar), Alex Rosamilia (lead guitar, backing vocals), Alex Levine (bass guitar, backing vocals), and Benny Horowitz (drums, percussion) clearly returned inspired to create History Books. What this means is there are no lackluster attempts here. In fact, over the course of 10 new songs The Gaslight Anthem will not only please faithful followers, but may even earn some new ones as well; after all, you have to remember it has been nearly a decade… and there are a lot of new listeners out there. Anyway, the album is full of lively, yet smooth arrangements that match well with catchy melodies.
Quite laid back and mature, you can dig into this album and the individual stories of each song with ease. These stories are each well-written, but some standout moments include the title-track, but also “Positive Charge,” Little Fires,” and the rougher “I Live In The Room Above Her.” The latter a sure attention grabber, the guitars are driven, but only momentarily before the also very compelling, yet down to earth “A Lifetime of Preludes” closes out the album.
In the end, History Books is a delightful return from The Gaslight Anthem. It is true to form for the band, but also proof that their songwriting skills have grown through the years. Soothing and relaxing, it is the perfect medicine for a troubled mind in even more troubled times. That is why Cryptic Rock commend their efforts, and give History Books 4.5 out of 5 stars.
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