Backup Vocalists

Joe and I went to see The Hold Steady again last night. The venue was First Avenue, which is a great place to see a band like this -- much better than the Orpheum where the constraints of balconies and seating plans kills the fun of seeing a live show.

I was honestly a luke-warm at best on the most recent Hold Steady album, "Stay Positive". Unlike previous albums I felt like the band was more heavily re-using their riffs and that there was little additional development of the character mythos included in the songs. I liked the first single, "Sequestered In Memphis", with it's catchy hook but overall the album just didn't excite me. In particular the slow song "Lord, I'm Discouraged" just didn't work for me and I really enjoy downer albums -- just check how many times I've listened to Nebraska by Bruce Springsteen.

If you want the story of the album from Craig Finn, read it on the label web site.

Seeing the songs performed in person was totally different. They sound was brighter and more frenetic. They just sparkled in a way they didn't on the album. "Lord I'm Discouraged" was no exception. I like the album more now than before I saw the show.

I don't know how Craig Finn does his magic but between his presentation and the bands riffs, it just works.

Then there is the crowd factor. I have never really seen a show, outside of the oldies circuit where you get the audience acting as the backup vocalists. It makes the whole show connect in a big way.

If I wasn't so busy I would drive up to Fargo and see them again tonight.

Thanks for organizing the trip Joe!