The Gaslight Anthem: Moving into the Fast Lane

Hailing from New Brunswick, New Jersey, the journey taken by the four avid songwriters of The Gaslight Anthem has been one of rapid success as well as an incredible learning experience. Frontman Brian Fallon, bassist Alex Levine, guitarist Alex Rosamilia and drummer Benny Horowitz have only technically been a band for about two-and-a-half years; however, the short amount of time is becoming seemingly irrelevant considering how far they've come, touring the world with highly celebrated acts in sold-out venues.

Propelled by the positive experience and optimistic feedback from their recording of the three-song demo, Sink or Swim, in 2007, the foursome quickly realized their talents were worth pursuing. "I think by that point we all knew it was something worth dedicating our time to – something to take very seriously," reflects Benny. "We had to all essentially change our lives to make this our full-time thing. We had jobs and apartments we paid rent for and now we don't because this is our job now."

The current hype surrounding The Gaslight Anthem comes from its most recent August release, The '59 Sound, driving them further into the fast lane with other successful up-and-coming bands. For six weeks, the band recorded with former Flogging Molly guitarist, Ted Hutt, to create The '59 Sound. It was the first time the group had recorded with a producer, but it proved to be a positive experience for the band. "We had a little more time to fiddle around and have some fun," admits Benny.

With The '59 Sound, the band's sound reflects that of the classic rock stylings of Tom Petty, Otis Redding, and, in particular, Bruce Springsteen, also from New Jersey. Although Benny feels it would be hard to pinpoint a New Jersey sound, he agrees that there is a certain dynamic distinct to New Jerseyans. "I think there's an attitude and personality that comes with people from New Jersey. I think you'll find a lot of stories of hope and desperation because in a lot of ways the people who live there are sort of in love with it, but they all feel trapped at the same time," he muses.

When being compared to Tom Petty or Bruce Springsteen, the band has no problem admitting to wearing their influences on their sleeves: "It doesn't bother me at all; I think it's important to be honest about your influences. If anything, I take it as a testament to doing something right," replies Benny.

The Gaslight Anthem recently wrapped up its North American tour alongside Rise Against, Alkaline Trio and Thrice, which was an unbelievable experience. "It's been incredible. We've never been on a tour so massive," enthuses Benny. "Just seeing all three of those bands every night we can learn a lot from how they tour, how they sound and how they interact."

And the New Jersey foursome are thrilled to continue their travels into Europe and the UK this month, touring with Frank Turner and Polar Bear Club.

Enjoying the ride and the company along the way, Benny is truly happy with where the band has come. "I wouldn't want it to stop, but if it did, I'd have no regrets," he declares with a smile.

There's no doubt that these promising musicians have greater things in store for them in the near future.