Chicagoist: Rockin' Our Turntable: The Hold Steady

mich

Thu, 17 Jul 2008 15:45:37 -0600

I actually somewhat liked the band UNTIL I saw them live.

lamgray

Wed, 16 Jul 2008 12:12:10 -0600

This band def. grew on me as well. I have had nothing but fun at their shows and experience pure enjoyment with their high energy performances. Also, choosing to dislike things b/c they are too popular is the same as choosing to like things b/c they are popular. . .how about making decisions on what you actually like and dislike and give up caring what other people think. Being an individual is not specifically liking obscure bands, its choosing a selection and wide variety of things you like without taking other people perceptions into account.

RoyE

Wed, 16 Jul 2008 08:40:04 -0600

The Hold Steady may not be immediately accessible to the average listener due to Finn's vocals, but if you give them time and a few listens (as Lizz's review states) they will grow on you. Finn's lyrics/singing tend to get all the press, but the band is really tight and Tad Kubler can really wail on the guitar. These guys are putting out straight ahead, classic rock inspired music that very few are doing nowadays. Check ‘em out, it is worth the effort.

tc3

Tue, 15 Jul 2008 19:55:50 -0600

I usually like talk-singy rock, but I just don't get this band's popularity. I'm exactly the opposite - I usually hate the pseudo-singers, but Finn's lyrics rise far above any initial annoyance I had. Plus he's actually sung on most of the last couple albums rather than just rambled.

quint

Tue, 15 Jul 2008 19:41:29 -0600

What is the matter with the people here, especially those that have seen the Hold Steady live? Instead of just saying they suck why not offer up someone else you think does a better job?

Percy

Tue, 15 Jul 2008 18:37:25 -0600

What is wrong with you all? The Hold Steady is the only reason I'm even going to Pitchfork. They are the best live rock band around right now, and all of their records, including Stay Positive, are excellent. And regardless of your opinion on them, what is with everyone saying they're "too popular" ? I barely know anyone who's into them. No one can get past the vocals because they're not willing to take the time to listen.

CL

Tue, 15 Jul 2008 16:49:16 -0600

bleh. I really don't like this band.

mich

Tue, 15 Jul 2008 16:34:28 -0600

I cant STAND this band. Worst live show ever. I walked out of their show, too. I dont know where Im going to hide when theyre playing at Pitchfork.

Rubber Shark

Tue, 15 Jul 2008 13:09:39 -0600

i don't get them either. i can't remember a single HS song...

vjay

Tue, 15 Jul 2008 12:37:56 -0600

meh Hold Steady should save it. I usually like talk-singy rock, but I just don't get this band's popularity.

grandma

Tue, 15 Jul 2008 12:36:23 -0600

Anybody else think they're super overrated? A friend and I walked out of their show.

tc3

Tue, 15 Jul 2008 12:17:06 -0600

Most entertaining live rock band around right now. They should be headlining over Animal Collective on Saturday night.

junebug006

Tue, 15 Jul 2008 11:59:28 -0600

it may not be their best ever but the new tracks still tear up the stage when you hear 'em live