Narc. Magazine Online
Reliably informed
James Hattersley discovers an album of melancholic wistfulness from Gaslight Anthem
Rich Mahogany Records
Released: 27.10.23
I’ve waited ten long frustrating years to get new material from New Jersey’s The Gaslight Anthem. Listening to History Books for the first time is like an ex reaching out in the dead of night – there’s a melancholic wistfulness, the excitement that you used to know, and the trepidation of what this means and where it’s all leading.
A natural evolution of their established sound, the album boasts what we’ve come to expect – occasional blasts of heavy rock riffs sandwiched between thoughtful and heartbreaking tenderness. Extremely personal lyrics explore themes of mental health and recovery, yet don’t forgo the sing-along quality TGA have become synonymous with. Despite a more sombre approach, History Books is a celebration. Man, it’s good to be alive.
