The Hold Steady’s frontman Craig Finn has been talking about his debut solo album for a little while, ever since he recorded it in Austin back in July. He announced the first single from it, “Honolulu Blues,” which comes out on 7″ on Record Store Day’s Black Friday (November 25th), but he has now told us to expect the full album on January 24th.
The album is entitled Clear Heart, Full Eyes. The album name is “a juxtaposed reference to Friday Night Lights, a TV show that excited and moved me and also happened in Texas. Further, “Clear Heart” signifies honesty and transparency, and “Full Eyes” suggests experience. Thus, it’s about being optimistic and open without succumbing to the weariness or doubt that comes with age and experience.”
Prior to his arrival in Austin in July, Finn had written 23 songs on acoustic guitar. 14 of the songs were recorded by a full band over the course of 5 days, and 11 of them make the final cut of the album. Finn describes the songs as “a little quieter and perhaps more narrative [than The Hold Steady].” Finn also tells us to hopefully expect a new album from The Hold Steady in 2012 as well.
Vagrant Records will release Clear Heart, Full Eyes. You can see the cover art above and the track list is after the jump.
01. Apollo Bay
02. When No One’s Watching
03. No Future
04. New Friend Jesus
05. Jackson
06. Terrified Eyes
07. Western Pier
08. Honolulu Blues
09. Rented Room
10. Balcony
11. Not Much Left Of Us
