He used a lot of words. He tried to be very specific and descriptive, which is something I try to be as well. But also his literary take on what I call the American teenage experience ... rock 'n' roll always sounds best when covering that topic.... Springsteen had teenage dramas that were so vivid. |
Lately, I barely drink anything until about 10 minutes before we play. Then I literally drink as much as I can. |
People started showing up. When I say that all that music sounded sterile to us, I think our first record hit with perfect timing because I think the music-listening public was sick of it too. And people with loud guitars, solos, loose playing? I think it was fun for people to hear that, it reminded them of something. |
Springsteen is a huge influence. |
There are things that we do that differentiate us from them. But look, if you're going to be compared to someone, then those are two of the greatest rock-and-roll bands ever, so I'm feeling pretty good. |
We feel that Vagrant will allow us to bring our music to even more people, while also understanding the things that make the band special to The Hold Steady fans, and to the band members themselves. |
You're still half a child, but you're getting in these adult situations with a sense of wonder and a sense of stupidity as well. I see it as a real universal suburban record. |