Review → The Gaslight Anthem – Sink or Swim (2007)
The Gaslight Anthem released one of 2008’s best albums, The ‘59 Sound. That was their sophomore effort, and is one three releases of new material they’ve put out in their short time together (the others being this, Sink or Swim, and the Señor & the Queen EP). So let’s take a trip in the Wayback Machine to the long-forgotten year of twenty-ought-seven, when a young quartet of New Jersey punks released their debut LP.
Coming out of the Jersey punk scene, these guys have a sound that’s reminiscent of bands like the Bouncing Souls; muscular guitar work, somewhat gruff vocals, and a heavy sense of melody. The Souls are a clear influence on the band, but so are more diverse artists. Bruce Springsteen, New Jersey’s favorite son, stands out most. The Clash are also revered by these guys; the song “Ida Called You Woody, Joe” is a tribute to the late, great Joe Strummer.



