Been reading a lot of reviews today, both professional and fan, and I must say I'm really looking foward to hearing Rocky Ground tomorrow, for no other reason than curiosities sake. Some pieces called it the best thing Springsteen has done in years, others decried it as the worst thing he's ever put to record.

I guess I fall into the former group. To me, that the outstanding song on this incredible new album is a gospel/rap track signifies that Bruce really is the greatest songwriter to have ever lived.

The entire album is breathtakingly amazing. That a guy in his sixites who has had the level of success that Bruce has achieved, can write a collection of songs as energized, and angry, and defiant, and hopeful as these is stunning. Listening to this album reminds me of Darkness, and it has the same feeling of a young man trying desparetly to be as great as he can possibly be by tapping into the experiences of so many and giving voice to those emotions.

It's an absolutely stellar album.

It's an amazing album.

Bruce hasn't put a foot wrong. People complain about the drum loops and rap, but they do add to the songs. Bruce hasn't gone mental and decided he's Jay Z, instead he's made an album that incorporates old sounds with new sounds and that has made for a thoroughly fresh sounding album.

I think we're all surprised that he's pulled this out of the bag with such aplomb and for me is further evidence that he is a God amongst men.

Have heard this album twice now and for me. Its dreadful. Especially the two bonus tracks. One of them is so slow and boring and the 2nd in an Irish jig song.
I know he is older but The Boss has forgotten how to rock and roll.
Incredibly slow and tedious album for me.

(Ducks for cover!)

I know that JBJ loves the Boss but I hope that he dont go down this road.

I cant see any of the new Bruce album going down well live. Its too quiet and slow.

I can see Jack of All Trades become the new sort of Racing In The Street where the live-version is extended. I also can see him doing a speech during the intro of the song.
If you think this album is dreadful I doubt you understand what Bruce Springsteen is all about and where he is known for. He isn't known to rock and roll. He is known for his lyrics that cover his statements, opinions and in the end facts.

The reason this album works for me is that the message he wanted to say isn't being covered in hard rock songs but his lyrics are being carried by the peaceful music.

If you only see American Land as an Irish Jig I doubt you understand the message behind his songs. That is ok and I respect your opinion but the songs are more then meets the ear ;)

I salute you,
TS

i like a few albums of bruce but i prefer the earlier ones.

these songs just seem to go nowhere for me.

each to their own - im sure springsteen fans will love it but for me its a tad on the slow side.

Fair enough :) We cannot all agree on the same thing and that's a good thing. The last album of Springsteen I liked was Magic so after the dreadful WOAD I am very happy with this one as I can relate to some of the songs.

I salute you,
TS

Still not received my copy :(

What a spot on comment - all the way around. The songs are more than meets the ear is a wonderful way to put it.

Bruce is known for his lyrics but he is also known for his hopefulness (not a good word maybe optimism is a better one) while still explaining why he is as angry as he is. It's always been a winning combination for me. There is some light in the darkness - otherwise why bother.