The Hold Steady - Sequestered In Memphis

Rough Trade

The hoary old rock that The Hold Steady pour out is their strength and their weakness. They are, of course, pan-generational, pleasing wrinklies with their musical nod to the classic rock combos of the 1970s, while critical acclaim keeps them front and centre for the kids. But this limited edition single does a terrific job of representing their Eagles influences and is less than convincing at making the youngsters happy. Even their name lets you know they’re a safe pair of hands, so nothing shocking here. It just seems that The Hold Steady would do better to distance themselves from rock’s long and illustrious history, perhaps – lest they end up sequestered in a home for the elderly. Kirstie McCrum

Issue #52 - Very Bro-some

Featuring Panama Kings, ASIWYFA, an investigation into DIY touring, details of what over 25 of the finest NI bands are up to in 2009 and much more.