State of the Hold Steady
Posted on November 2nd, 2007 – 9:23 AMBy Chris Riemenschneider
So, was it just me, or did anybody else think that Tad Kubler only brought out that double-neck Gibson guitar (see: Jimmy Page) because of the theater environment, and/or to impress his parents in the crowd? Anyway, that was about the only thing the band did different last night at the State than if they had been playing First Ave instead.Craig Finn seemed totalk a little less between songs, too, but maybe that was so they could fit in the new songs,or so Art Brut could play a little longer in the opening slot.Smart move in either case (nothing against Craig’s gift of gab).
Look for the full review online here or in tomorrow’s paper, and leave your own review below. Here’s the setlist, with new songs marked by *:
1. Party Pit 2. Hot Soft Light 3. Chips Ahoy! 4. Cattle & the Creeping Things 5. Ask Her for Adderall* 6. Stuck Between Stations 7. Massive Nights 8. Magazines* 9. Some Kooks 10. Banging Camp 11. Barfruit Blues 12. Lord, I’m Discouraged* 13. You Can Make Him Like You 14. Your Little Hoodrat Friend 15. How a Resurrection Really Feels
ENCORE: 16. Positive Jam 17. Multitude of Casualties 18. Southtown Girls 19.Killer Parties
16 Responses to "State of the Hold Steady"
That was my first Hold Steady show, and it did not disappoint. I was a little nervous about the venue and can’t wait to see them in their more natural habitat (i.e. First Ave), but there’s something to be said about actually having space to stand, sing and dance in, too.
It was probably just me being selfish, but I was hoping for something a little extra special for us with it be a homecoming show and all.
Craig’s not lying when he says there is so much joy for them in playing their music. Their joy is infectious to all of us in the crowd. I don’t know how anyone can’t have fun at a Hold Steady show.
I’m guessing Craig and the rest of the band will be at the Springsteen show tonight. Keep your fingers crossed that they’ll be doing more than just watching.
I was thinking/hoping the same thing.
The Finn/Springsteen thing occurred to me also, especially after seeing the clip of members of Arcade Fire doing a cameo with the E-Street Band. Fingers crossed.
I loved the show. It was refreshing (and very entertaining) to see such a sincere display of “so much joy.”
The show exceeded my high expectations. They have so many great ‘arena’ songs and played them all. My disappointment is that they are only playing one show here in MPLS. Will have to catch them on the road.
Art Brut also won me over with their show…will definitely listen to their albums.
They flat-out ruled. I’d go see them if they played the cities every month. Incredible.
I didn’t even want to see them play outside of a bar setting, but it’s good to hear they played well.
Hey Nightclub Dwight, I’m still waiting for that money. . .
Was I the only one who thought the sound was atrocious? I saw they had drums, but I didn’t really hear them. Maybe it was the venue, but they seemed subdued, and actually a little boring.
My first Hold Steady show also, very enjoyable. The band was tight and enthusiastic, always a good combination for a rock ‘n’ roll band. It was good to hear they had some first-rate new material, too, especially “Lord, I’m Discouraged”.
I agree with Ascot 100% - the sound was atrocious. I do not think it was band-related whatsoever, but more poor soundchecking/venue-related.
Despite the sound, though, you could really appreciate the band’s energy and musical muscle…
THS kicked a**! Is anyone else sick and tired of poor sound at these theater shows? Last night didn’t sound as bad as Ryan Adams. I know they can do it right - Lucinda Williams sounded stellar earlier this year. They charge out the wazoo for tix then don’t bother with the technical stuff. How can we be heard (pun intented) on this matter?!
I too thought the sound was HORRIBLE. I seriously considered leaving after the first couple of songs - If the sound was worse for Ryan Adams, I would have demanded my money back.
Despite it all, the band blew the joint away. I would rather see them at First Ave, but I think they have outgrown the place (at least in this town)!
I’ve seen THS 4 times now, and this was hands down the most disappointing show of the lot. They still played their tails off, but something about the venue just left me wanting more. That said, I’m glad I went. I’d have kicked myself for missing them. Here’s hoping my bar band ends up back in the bar the next time they come through.
The sound was terrible, at least from where I was at in the balcony. There’s no excuse for that, and it detracted from the overall energy and enthusiasm the band clearly had onstage.
And yeah, Riemenschneider, it was just you. Tad actually used both the 6 string and 12 string during that song.
The sound was bad and they played through it. I am glad Art Brut got a little longer. I can’t wait for them to come back as well.
I thought the show was good - very good. Pacing of the set seemed a bit awkward. “Positive Jam” as encore starter was awkward…Maybe as a show starter, but not there. Liked 2nd First Ave show better last fall - maybe it was the venue???
Tad played the double necked Gibson at both First Ave shows last year too, so… yeah, moot point
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