Brian Fallon, frontman of the Gaslight Anthem, has channeled his passion for 1980s rock music into his latest solo album, “Not Bad for New Jersey.” The project emerged partly from an unexpected moment when his daughter played him Billie Eilish’s “Ocean Eyes,” which Fallon recognized as carrying echoes of classic ’80s rock sensibilities. Working alongside producer Butch Walker, whom he collaborated with on his 2016 debut “Painkillers,” Fallon crafted an album that draws inspiration from iconic artists like Bryan Adams, Tom Petty, and John Waite.
A significant departure from his previous approach, Fallon embraced collaborative songwriting for this album, working alongside fellow musicians including Brandon Flowers of the Killers, Donovan Woods, and Lori McKenna. Previously resistant to outside input, Fallon reflected on his evolved mindset, noting that he had long felt obligated to work in isolation. The shift proved creatively invigorating, with the artist discovering that welcoming others into the creative process strengthened rather than diminished his contributions.
Recorded over three weeks at Walker’s Nashville studio in December, the album features a robust, energetic sound distinctly different from his 2020 effort “Local Honey.” The project showcases Fallon’s appreciation for ’80s rock’s bold attitude, with standout tracks like the title number, “Nobody Likes You in NYC,” and “Better Before” exemplifying the era’s aesthetic. The recording sessions maintained an impressively live approach, with approximately 90 percent captured in real-time performances.
Originally reported by Rollingstone →
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