The Hold Steady

On April 3, 2010, The Hold Steady delivered a high-energy performance at Toad's Place in New Haven, showcasing their album "Heaven is Whenever," which was released just a month earlier. This live recording features an excerpt from "Hornets, Hornets," encapsulating the band's signature blend of rock lyrics rich in storytelling and personal reflection. At this point in their career, The Hold Steady had established a strong fanbase and critical acclaim for their narrative-driven songs that often evoke a sense of nostalgia and youthful rebellion. Interestingly, this show occurred during a key transitional period for the band—marking their first album after the departure of keyboardist Franz Nicolay, which begged the question: could they capture the same magic? The answer, as this live recording suggests, was a resounding yes.

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