On January 28th, The Hold Steady played the Music Hall of Williamsburg, in celebration of their 20 years of being a ‘bar’ band. Originally forming in Brooklyn after the dissolution of their former band ‘Lifter Puller’, The Hold Steady stepped on to the then Northsix venue in January 30th of 2003, playing songs from their debut album, Almost Killed Me. While the band itself was originally founded by singer/songwriter Craig Finn, and guitarist Tad Kablur (both previously in Lifter Puller), they brought bassist Galen Polenka, keyboardist Franz Nicoley, and drummer Bobby Drake – the former, who Craig refers to during this show, as the ‘glue’ of the band.
20 Years!
Out of the 9 shows I’ve frequented over the 16 year lifespan of being a fan, this was without a doubt, the most unparalleled Hold Steady show I’ve ever had the pleasure of experiencing.
The aftermath
Over two months later, we’re still finding confetti everywhere.
Literally. While the majority of the confetti laid quietly in the recesses of our hair the following morning, disguised similarly to ladybugs, we’ve found them in the crevices of the carpets, the corners of the apartment, the beds of both pets, and even in the hallway outside. When they show face, they represent a past, present, and future - a signal to the highs & lows of my life so far. The Hold Steady has been with me through literally everything, a sounding beacon of hope and solace.
Outside in the hallway. I have so many more photos like this.
Today, March 31st, marks the release of their 9th album, The Price of Progress. The past week I’ve been waxing nostalgic, drifting back through time, acknowledging where I was in life, both physically and mentally, during each of the subsequent releases. I’m sure I’ll do the same with this release in time, as well.
At some point, I’d love to do a synopsis of my fandom for the band, and how they’ve significantly impacted my life for the better. For now, I’d like to say a thank you to The Hold Steady, and a congratulations on the 9th album.
Here’s to 20 more years.
Thanks for reading, thanks for understanding.
Stay positive, Cornelius