How Gaslight Anthem’s Brian Fallon Found His Inner Eighties Rock Star
The singer goes full Bryan Adams on his new solo album, Not Bad for New Jersey: "Songs with a lot of attitude were really big for me"
Brian Fallon's latest solo venture, Not Bad for New Jersey, marks a significant departure from his work with The Gaslight Anthem, as he trades in his heartland rock sound for a more unapologetically eighties-inspired approach. By embracing his inner Bryan Adams, Fallon is not only paying homage to a bygone era but also tapping into a part of himself that he hadn't explored in years. This new direction is a bold move, especially considering The Gaslight Anthem's established reputation as a rootsy, Americana-infused rock band.
The decision to go full eighties rock star on Not Bad for New Jersey is likely a deliberate attempt to shake off the expectations that come with being part of a well-known band. By stripping away the familiar sonic landscapes of The Gaslight Anthem, Fallon is able to showcase his versatility as a songwriter and performer. The emphasis on attitude-driven songwriting, as he notes, speaks to a desire to create music that's raw, unbridled, and unafraid to take risks. In an era where nostalgia for eighties rock is experiencing a resurgence, Fallon's timing couldn't be better.
As the music industry continues to grapple with the challenges of a rapidly changing landscape, artists like Fallon are finding innovative ways to push boundaries and defy categorization. What's next for Fallon is anyone's guess, but if Not Bad for New Jersey is any indication, he's eager to keep exploring new sounds and styles. Keep an eye on how this solo venture influences his work with The Gaslight Anthem, and whether he'll continue to mine the eighties rock vein for future projects. One thing's for sure – Brian Fallon is having a blast, and that enthusiasm is infectious.
Originally reported by rollingstone.com. VeniceNews adds analysis for culture, style & media readers.