Stuff

So, I had a chance to spin Springsteen’s “Magic” loosely a couple of times. There are definitely a few gems on this new disc which is a nice change of pace after having lived through the bland “Devils And Dust” and uninteresting “Seeger Sessions” albums the past couple of years.

There is nothing reminiscent of past glories or past projects as a lot of the reviews out there would suggest. The only thing that is familiar is Brendan O’Brien’s production. I can’t stress enough how I think O’Brien’s influence on Bruce’s music has left it sterile and sleek. One of the attractive things about the bulk of the Springsteen catalogue up until this century was how organic and natural it all sounded. Even his ventures into a more synthesized Pop sound in the late 1980’s-early 1990’s didn’t feel mechanical like his current sound does. I’m sure there are some fans that totally dig what O’Brien brings to the table, but Springsteen’s music doesn’t need a modern sound. Bruce is the artist, and if this is what he feels his music needs, more power to him.

Nevertheless, “Gypsy Biker” and the title track “Magic” are worth exploring. Those two hit me right away. I’m sure a couple more will follow.
_______________________________________

I have been spinning a few Motorhead discs off and on the past week. It is another reminder to me that they were the best Metal band of all time. What an energizing ride to sit through. The album “Overkill” is an absolute masterpiece from the Metal genre. It has it all: strong hooks, power, energy, speed and fantastic volume. Bottom line; it is great Rock N’ Roll.

The Sanctuary 2CD reissues of the band’s albums are brilliantly done. The bonus material which ranges from outtakes, alternates to live material is excellent. This is how reissues should be done.
_______________________________________

On November 20, Rhino is issuing a 2 disc DVD set comprising of various performances from Eric Clapton’s 2007 Crossroads Guitar Festival. Normally, this sort of release doesn’t grab my attention, but Clapton’s annual Crossroads gig delivers the goods. He always has an incredible cast of characters performing on the bill.

This one will be worth it to see for these performances alone:

*“Highway 61 Revisited” featuring Johnny Winter with the Derek Trucks Band
*“Sitting on Top of the World" with Hubert Sumlin, Robert Cray Band, Jimmie Vaughan
*”Paying The Cost To Be The Boss” and “Rock Me Baby” with BB King, Hubert Sumlin, Jimmie Vaughan, Robert Cray Band
*”Cause We’ve Ended As Lovers” and “Big Block” from Jeff Beck
*”Who Do You Love” with Robbie Robertson and Eric Clapton
*”Presence Of The Lord,” “Can’t Find My Way Home,” “Had To Cry Today” and “Crossroads” with Steve Winwood and Eric Clapton

Seeing Clapton and Winwood collaborating again will be worth the price of admission alone.