High Hopes- Bruce Springsteen
by: Daly Tongren
Earlier this year, Bruce Springsteen released his 18th
studio album, High Hopes. It features
cover songs, outtakes from past albums, and remakes of previously released
tracks. The Boss is backed by his E Street Band on the album, with the
exception of one special guest: Rage Against the Machine’s Tom Morello.
Morello’s influence on the album is apparent throughout the
track list, especially in the case of “The Ghost of Tom Joad.” Originally a
Springsteen single from 1995, Rage had recorded their own cover after its
release. Hearing the two versions fuse together between the Morello and
Springsteen collab creates a very cool, modern take on an original ballad.
The title of the album also serves as the title for the
opening track. “High Hopes” is vintage Springsteen, and exactly what you’d
expect to hear from the veteran Americana rocker in 2014. Morello’s guitar
could almost be credited as another vocalist on the track. “High Hopes” was
destined to be the single for the album, and has definitely been securing the
most radio time.
Because of its collective nature, High Hopes doesn’t necessarily flow as an entire album. It lacks a
clear concept, which wasn’t the purpose it was released for, but worth noting
to prospective listeners. It would be hard to see a lot of these tracks being
on the same album in any other form, and it is important to know that going in.
High Hopes is an
album for the bigger Springsteen fans. His updated versions of familiar tunes
are fun and interesting if you are hip to their origins. Morello fans can
appreciate tracks such as “Harry’s Place” and “Heaven’s Wall,” where his
influence is the most apparent. For those who aren’t as familiar with
Springsteen’s work, check out my album spotlight on Greetings from Asbury Park,N.J. for more direction.
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