2008 Woodie Awards
Springsteen brings "Magic"
Brendan Block
Issue date: 10/19/07 Section: Gallery
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Very few artists are able to have major hit albums in four different decades. In his new album "Magic," released Oct. 2, Bruce Springsteen returns to his classic rock roots with sounds reminiscing the Beach Boys and the Eagles. Of course, most of the songs still have his distinct sound but with some of the most intricate and thought provoking lyrics. Springsteen was hailed as the "Savior of Rock n' Roll" in 1974, and his newest album "Magic" still echoes his classic sound.
The first track is "Radio Nowhere," where Springsteen illustrates someone who is in the middle of nowhere, searching for some meaning in life and in music. The anecdote applies to today as he sees most music on the radio as lacking life and inspiration. He asks "is there anybody alive out there?" What he is really asking is where did all the sounds of pure rock 'n roll go? The song's chord progression sounds a lot like the 1980's hit by Tommy Tutone "867-5309/Jenny."
Though the album is largely devoid of politics, Springsteen also makes social commentary on his third track "Livin' in the Future." It talks of America's greatness and the fine line it must walk between the freedoms we enjoy and the invasion of civil liberties.
"My songs can be read both personally and politically," said Springsteen. "A good album should have some social commentary."
Overall this album is rare for its time. In a world where the only remnants of classic rock seem to be alternative and emo type music, Springsteen endeavors to find his sound that made him famous in the 1970's and 80's and succeeds. It has already received five stars from "Rolling Stone" and rave reviews from fans. "Magic" has already seemed to steamroll its way as an instant hit.
His music returns with roots of gospel, ripe melodies and good pop music songwriting. Hopefully the popularity from Springsteen's media blitz on "60 Minutes" and "The Today Show" will influence radio DJ's to play his new music. Springsteen topped Billboard's album charts last week in front of Rascal Flatts and Soulja Boy II. The 56 year old "Savior of Rock 'n Roll" still shows signs of starting a classic rock revival.
The first track is "Radio Nowhere," where Springsteen illustrates someone who is in the middle of nowhere, searching for some meaning in life and in music. The anecdote applies to today as he sees most music on the radio as lacking life and inspiration. He asks "is there anybody alive out there?" What he is really asking is where did all the sounds of pure rock 'n roll go? The song's chord progression sounds a lot like the 1980's hit by Tommy Tutone "867-5309/Jenny."
Though the album is largely devoid of politics, Springsteen also makes social commentary on his third track "Livin' in the Future." It talks of America's greatness and the fine line it must walk between the freedoms we enjoy and the invasion of civil liberties.
"My songs can be read both personally and politically," said Springsteen. "A good album should have some social commentary."
Overall this album is rare for its time. In a world where the only remnants of classic rock seem to be alternative and emo type music, Springsteen endeavors to find his sound that made him famous in the 1970's and 80's and succeeds. It has already received five stars from "Rolling Stone" and rave reviews from fans. "Magic" has already seemed to steamroll its way as an instant hit.
His music returns with roots of gospel, ripe melodies and good pop music songwriting. Hopefully the popularity from Springsteen's media blitz on "60 Minutes" and "The Today Show" will influence radio DJ's to play his new music. Springsteen topped Billboard's album charts last week in front of Rascal Flatts and Soulja Boy II. The 56 year old "Savior of Rock 'n Roll" still shows signs of starting a classic rock revival.
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