by Phil Scarisbrick

The Boss is back! After conquering the worlds of literature and theatre over the last couple of years, Bruce Springsteen is returning to the ‘day job’ with his first album in five years. In fact, it is his first album of completely new, original songs since 2012’s Wrecking Ball. Western Stars will be released once again through Columbia Records on 14th June on CD/LP and a limited edition coloured LP.

Comprising of thirteen tracks, the record was primarily recorded at his home studio in New Jersey, with additional tracking done in California and New York. Speaking of his nineteenth studio album, Bruce said, “This record is a return to my solo recordings featuring character driven songs and sweeping, cinematic orchestral arrangements. It’s a jewel box of a record.”

The album has been co-produced by Ron Aniello and features E-Streeters new and old with Charlie Giordino, Soozie Tyrell and David Sancious all appearing. Every song has been written by Springsteen.

If first single Hello Sunshine is anything to go by, we’re certainly in for a treat. A rolling snare drum, two step bass and acoustic guitar soundtrack paints an evocative image before being joined by thudding piano, lap steel guitar and lush strings. The real highlight though is Bruce’s vocals which are imperious in tone, breaking down your defences and piercing your heart.

There are few artists who can create this much excitement about new material while in their seventieth year, but Bruce Springsteen is no ordinary artist.

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