The Gaslight Anthem Essentials

New Jersey's The Gaslight Anthem first got fists pumping by writing narrative punk songs about escape. Power-pop road-worshipping single “Drive” exemplifies those early suburban days. Soon the band's fast songwriting skills found fuel in their love of old-school Americana; on 2008's The ‘59 Sound, a merry rock hook and bouncy rhythms belie the cynicism of “Great Expectations”. The band continues to celebrate the intersection of punk and rock ‘n' roll: “Break Your Heart” does what the title suggests with delicate folk plucking and soulful vocal melody.