Year in Rock 2012 Nominee: The Gaslight Anthem

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THE GASLIGHT ANTHEM
Biloxi Parish
From: Handwritten
Released: July 24

In 2012, The Gaslight Anthem took a long-overdue leap to the big time; Handwritten is their first album on a major label, produced by rock powerhouse producer Brendan O'Brien. And its first single, the raucous and heartfelt “45”, was a fitting introduction to the masses. It packs in the workmanlike chops the band has become known for alongside what is arguably the biggest, earworm-worthy chorus they've ever penned. It's also a great way to start off Handwritten, an album that encapsulates their overall sound and then transcends it thanks to O'Brien's masterful production. The album's prime example is Biloxi Parish, a song that starts off unassuming enough, then piles on hook after hook after hook until you have no choice but to tap out to its force.

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