Review
The Gaslight Anthem's 'Handwritten' stormed onto the scene in 2012 with all the fervor of a band ready to graduate from clubs to arenas. While many diehards still pledge allegiance to 'The '59 Sound,' this record marked their definitive breakthrough into the mainstream rock consciousness. The album kicks off with the high-octane '45,' where Brian Fallon's vocals pack a newfound punch, setting the tone for a collection that's built for bigger stages without abandoning their blue-collar ethos. Alex Rosamilia's guitar work shines throughout, particularly on tracks like 'Biloxi Parish,' where his riffs and solos crank the emotional intensity to eleven.
What makes 'Handwritten' special is how it expands The Gaslight Anthem's sonic palette while keeping their heart intact. The band dips their toes into bluesy waters on 'Keepsake' and 'Too Much Blood,' creating a more textured experience than their earlier work. Songs like 'Here Comes My Man' and 'Mae' strike that perfect balance between fist-pumping anthems and soul-searching narratives, before the acoustic closer 'National Anthem' brings everything down to a whisper. Their influences have evolved too – there's as much U2 in the mix as there is Springsteen, resulting in a record that feels both classic and contemporary. It's The Gaslight Anthem growing up without growing old, crafting songs that demand to be played at full volume on highway drives and late-night soul-searching sessions alike. - Hank
