Bruce Springsteen – Nebraska '82

      An exceptional insight into a significant period of the songwriter's career...

      ‘Nebraska’ stands as one of the most crucial albums in Bruce Springsteen’s extensive 50-plus year career in music. It was initially recorded on a four-track recorder in the bedroom of his New Jersey home, markedly different from the sounds present in ‘The River’ and the anthemic qualities that would characterize ‘Born In The USA’. Together with the Jeremy Allen White-led film Deliver Me From Nowhere, Springsteen delves deeply into the creation of his most intimate album with 'Nebraska 82', which includes outtakes, demos, live performances, and the long-speculated electric versions of the original album featuring the E Street Band. This offers yet another behind-the-scenes look at Springsteen's creative process, arriving just months after the release of his extensive Tracks II.

      The collection opens with an early demo of ‘Born in the USA’, originally intended for a Paul Schrader film. This rendition is quite different from the iconic anthem it would become in just two years and provides a captivating look at its development, sounding more haunting than the well-known version worldwide. Other ‘Born in the USA’ outtakes are included, such as ‘Downbound Train’ and ‘Workin’ on the Highway’. Considering the stark contrast between the two albums, it’s remarkable to recognize that so much of this material originated from the Nebraska sessions.

      The version of ‘Workin’ on the Highway’ presented here features a harmonica introduction and is recognizable as the song it would eventually become. Among the outtakes are previously unreleased tracks like ‘On The Prowl’ and ‘Gun In Every Home’. Much like ‘Tracks II’, even the discarded pieces here feel worthy of listening and analysis alongside the content that ultimately appeared on the ‘Nebraska’ album.

      The electric recordings blend the intimacy and darkness of Springsteen's lyrics with a richer sound. While they may not possess the same intensity as the original recordings, they offer an intriguing contrast between the two sessions. Fans have eagerly anticipated this for years. Although the title track closely resembles its released variant, ‘Atlantic City’ takes on a different form with electric riffs and driving drums. The electric rendition of ‘Downbound Train’ boasts a powerful rhythm, showcasing Springsteen and his band in their most punk-inspired and raw state, aligning more closely with some tracks from ‘Darkness on the Edge of Town’.

      The set also features Springsteen's sole live performance of the entire album from the Count Basie Theater. This reflects how meaningful the album remains to him, and his more weathered vocals align well with the songs' structure and themes. His gravelly voice on ‘Atlantic City’ is especially enjoyable.

      The insights into the album's creation and its various versions will captivate fans, finally revealing the long-awaited electric sessions. Ultimately, it affirms that the album’s original form in 1982 was a brilliant achievement that continues to attract new fans today while revolutionizing home recording. The expanded edition significantly enhances its legacy within Springsteen’s catalog, with these additions highlighting the album's creative vitality and innovation. The film and reissue are likely to introduce this less commercial album to a fresh audience and potentially shift perceptions of his artistry.

      8/10

      Words: Christopher Connor

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