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August 21, 2008Craig Finn and Tad Kubler have come a long way since their days in the Twin Cities indie band Lifter Puller. After that group disbanded in 2000, Finn and Kubler took time off and moved to New York City. In 2003, they decided to give it another shot, forming The Hold Steady after being inspired by The Band's legendary documentary The Last Waltz. Four studio albums and many successful tours later, The Hold Steady has found widespread critical acclaim and a dedicated following.

On the eve of the release of a new album, Stay Positive, The Hold Steady stopped by the WFUV studios for a performance and interview. There, they blasted through four new songs with the confidence and urgency of a band in its prime, and they discussed the inspiration behind the new record, Finn's story-based lyrics and the group's evolution since Almost Killed Me was released in 2004.

Originally recorded May 28, 2008.

Listen to the previous Favorite Session, or see our full archive.