Fox Reviews Rock

Today, we aim to answer the question: What is the best song by The Gaslight Anthem? The band is one of our personal favourites. With their heartfelt lyrics, nostalgic storytelling, and powerful blend of punk and rock ’n’ roll, The Gaslight Anthem have created some unforgettable songs. In this post, we explore the band’s most iconic tracks and fan favourites like “45,” “The ’59 Sound,” and “American Slang” to uncover which one truly stands out as their best.

Fox’s Recommendations

“45”

I really love how the vulnerability of the song is shown from the very start with lines like “Have you seen my heart, have you seen how it bleeds?”. It also has that really amazing hook which is also a cracking metaphor in “Hey, turn the record over, I’ll see you on the flip side”.

So yeah it is fair to say the song writing on this one was amazing. The song might be about losing someone, but it is all about not wallowing in it but turning over a new lead and moving on. There is no room to stop and think in this song, from the start it comes sprinting out the gate! If you love emotional charged lyrics, upbeat tempo and amazing vocals this is for you.

The ’59 Sound

I really enjoy how this song is built on guilt, memory all wrapped up in real old school rock n’ roll. It perfectly captures that heat breaking moment where someone has gone when least expected.

While there is a punk like urgency that comes through it is the warming feel of traditional rock that evokes real memories in the listeners mind. The chorus is intense, emotional and most importantly melodic. Pain dressed up in celebration clothing.

Fox’s Wildcard

American Slang

There is a real bittersweet notion in this song about pride, resilience and how it can bring regret. The vocalists voice cracks in all the right places for me on this song. While I feel like this is a great contrast to the other songs chosen due to the tempo.

We’ve explored some of the best songs by The Gaslight Anthem, from emotional anthems like “45” to nostalgic classics like “The ’59 Sound” and the bittersweet “American Slang.” But now it’s over to you — what do you think is the best song by The Gaslight Anthem?

Let us know in the comments whether you agree with our picks or have your own favourites to add. Don’t forget to check out the rest of the series for more incredible songs and artist deep dives!

All rights for the songs used in this post are retained by the recording artist. This site claims no rights over them.