Album Review: Bruce Springsteen - Magic
I said it was coming…
On October 2, Bruce Springsteen returns with the E Street Band for his 15th studo album Magic. After three+ years of solo work and collaborations with the Seeger Session Band, Springsteen has finally reunited with the best backing band in all of rock n’ roll. A slew of tour dates have already been announced though they are all pretty much sold out.
But anyway back to the album. I’d like to first start off quoting my recent review of the album written for my university’s paper, The Ram.
Magic features a variety of musical styles ranging from the guitar-heavy single “Radio Nowhere,” to “Livin’ in the Future,” which brings to mind Springsteen’s classic “Tenth Avenue Freeze-Out.” Of course, the album does not lack the powerful, emotionally-charged lyrics that are perhaps Springsteen’s greatest musical strength. A lyrical highlight of the album, “Terry’s Song,” recounts Springsteen’s anguish over the death of longtime friend and assistant Terry Magovern in summer 2007. Though the song is written as a tribute for Magovern, anyone who has suffered some kind of loss can easily identify with the song’s sorrowful, moving words. Among other album highlights are “Devil’s Arcade” and “Gypsy Biker.”
It’s pretty hard to accurately describe the sound of album. At times, it feels as if you are listening to Dylan. At other times, it feels like Eddie Money. It’s hard to explain. But then you remember, it’s The Boss, and it’s his own style. The album has rock, pop, and folk. I think the best way to describe it would be just to imagine if every sound and style Bruce has ever made were just mixed together - to create one outstanding album.
I mention above the highlights of the album. “Radio Nowhere” is probably the best single from an album I have heard in a very long time. It’s how rock is supposed to be - guitars wailing and plain awesome lyrics. Plus, you can’t ever top a Clarence Clemons solo. “Livin’ in the Future” not only sounds like “Tenth Avenue”, but it’s also damn catchy. It’s bouncy, lively and sounds like early Springsteen. The best song on the album is likely “Devil’s Arcade”. Lyrically it’s stunning - a song detailing love throughout one’s life. Musically, it’s just as good.
As I often say, it’s truly hard to describe an album, especially one of this caliber. Words can”t accurately represent the beauty of the sound or the profoundness of lyrics. So do yourself a favor and buy this album. It should be considered a classic the day it comes out. Personally, it’s already one of my favorite Springsteen albums of all-time.
Rating: 
Check Out:
Radio Nowhere
Your Own Worst Enemy
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