Right, because lyrics like “shaking, awful / shaking, asshole” are so full of meaning, and this song just pales in comparison. Please. Just because a song mentions god, it doesn’t mean it’s somehow obliged to address the issue in a definitive way. This is fucking rock and roll, you guys, not a philosophical thesis on theism. The goal isn’t to take a bold position on god, the point is to address the complexity and ambiguity of the issue.

And to say that, musically, it sounds like the average band from “anywhere, usa” is a disservice to Bridwell’s songwriting skills. There’s a subtlety and understanding evident in the structure of the song, and, really, it’s not that different from other BoH songs in the way that it presents itself.

Alllright, so I might be drunk, and I’ll even admit that last sentence only makes sense to me, but I know a good song when I hear it. Ted Leo let me down this year, Hold Steady has let me down this year– and I was but hearing this song was a huge relief to me– Band of Horses has done me no wrong, and they only continue to write good music. I can only hope that the rest of this album is as good as this song.

As a long time Hold Steady fan, I gotta say…. this kinda sucks. I’m really hoping this album isn’t a complete disappointment.