Curves + Nerves

I was going to go for a run, really, but this is more important: The Hold Steady has made available "Curves & Nerves" for download (free). Now, this is the band responsible for one of my most beloved albums, and I imagine I'm not the only one thrilled to hear this b-side. It's a great track on its own and it's a welcome addition to Separation Sunday's spellbinding storyline - all told, much more than a throwaway.

I've got a tendency to discuss the band's lyrics more than their music, which is more than a little unfair. It's clear that Craig Finn's a fine wordsmith - how else would he get away with speak-singing like he does? - but these songs wouldn't sound nearly as assured without such perfect backing. The bar-band comparisons don't do them justice, because what I hear is more compelling than the straight rock it's said to resemble. It's confidence tempered by sensitivity and handled to honest, driving perfection; it's impossibly gorgeous. And this, "Curves & Nerves," is no exception, the ringing and blooming of guitar complementing impeccably Finn's compassionate rememberances of our dear friend Holly. "When the crowd went wild/ We were under the stands/ Mouths and hands, baby/ Hands and mouths," and that's not even the kicker. Last line: "These hoodrat chicks are like razor blades/ They're pretty cheap but they'll cut you deep."

The Hold Steady - Curves & Nerves [mp3]

Visit the Hold Steady online, and buy Separation Sunday here.

Bonus tracks!

The Hold Steady - The Swish (remix) [mp3]

The Hold Steady - Killer Parties (remix) [mp3]