Sink or Swim is the debut studio album by the Gaslight Anthem, released May 29, 2007, through XOXO Records.
Reception Despite little attention from major critics, the album met with strong reception from independent critics. Absolutepunk.net received the album very positively, citing frontman Brian Fallon for having a "talent for creating lyrics and melodies that are simple and catchy, yet never forced or unintelligent." The review also called "I'da Called You Woody, Joe" (a tribute to Joe Strummer) the highlight of the records, and noted the similarities between the opening track "Boomboxes and Dictionaries" and Against Me!'s “Sink. Florida. Sink.” Punknews.org also praised the album and made many similar observations. They called the record "the type of record that most young bands wish they could create to launch their musical career." Unplugged reviews noted that "The Gaslight Anthem blend anthemic punk-rock spirit with Springsteen-influenced storytelling (together with a folk influence that recalls early Against Me!) to create a compelling, addictive whole." They also expressed appreciation for Fallon's "gruff vocals" and the contrast between up-tempo rockers like "We Came to Dance" and "Red in the Morning" and acoustic folk numbers like "The Navesink Banks" and "Red at Night."
Release In December 2010, the album was re-released in Europe exclusively on vinyl. This special release was limited to only 500 copies and featured a fold-out lyrics sheet.
Track listing
Personnel Band Brian Fallon – lead vocals, guitar, harmonica, piano, producer Alex Rosamilia – guitar, backing vocals, producer Alex Levine – bass guitar, backing vocals, producer Benny Horowitz – drums, backing vocals, producer
Production Josh Jakubowski – recording engineer, producer Jason Livermore – audio mastering John Clemmons – photographs C. Spliedt – cover painting Ed Hanks – layout
References