The Hold Steady - Chips Ahoy!

Fast-paced from the beginning, The Hold Steady's debut UK single is a burst of energy combining classic 80s rock riffs with the spoken word of vocalist/narrator Craig Finn. Their music – like that of his previous band Lifter Puller – describes an underworld of crime, desperation and hard luck stories. Chips Ahoy! is the tale of a girlfriend who's gifted at gambling, a drug binge, and a relationship that's hard to figure out. Despite the struggles of the characters in their songs, The Hold Steady's sound is invigorating, leaving you wanting more. You'd do well to keep an eye on this lot. [Nine]