Western Stars
by Bruce Springsteen

A great album, although very sad. It's theme and mood are so strong that it is like watching a film. Kudos to Bruce Springsteen for trying something so ambitious and doing so well with it.

On Western Stars, Springsteen's 19th studio album, The Boss finally achieves a proper follow-up to his acclaimed Nebraska album.

After the disappointment that was Wrecking Ball and the disaster that was High Hopes, this record creates a new path that Springsteen hasn't really tread before: cinematic folk music.

This record makes me think of aspects from three other artists: Mickey Newbury's knack for giving a simple folk song a powerful cinematic arrangement, Jimmy Webb's country crooning, and Harry Nilsson's melodies. Listening to these songs, you can often forget that these tracks are just folk songs draped in fancy arrangements. I often wish Americana music would take more daring steps into lush production. Mary Chapin Carpenter did this successfully on her acclaimed 2020 album The Dirt and Stars, produced by Ethan Johns.

This record compliments Nebraska by being the opposite: The songs, not the production, are stripped back. There is some lovely and romantic storytelling here, but it doesn't stray far from traditional melody and structure. Springsteen is a natural storyteller and a mature record like this is only fitting at this point in his career.

There were two other Springsteen records that attempted to recreate the magic of Nebraska: The Ghost of Tom Joad and Devils & Dust. Those records didn't have enough production to uplift the dark themes on those records, whereas Western Stars is focused and has the warm cinematic charm that engages the listener.

Highly recommended.

Condensed to a 7" Single:
A-Side: Tucson Train
B-Side: Moonlight Motel

Jun19. I usually love Bruce's slower, solo efforts, but this one did not do it for me first time through. Not as folky as other releases. More operatic with strings and overly produced and clean. More of a Californian, Eagles vibe. A couple of songs marked for further listening. 2/5

At nearly 70 years of age and a net worth of half a billion, you’d expect The Boss to be retracing steps. However, on Western Stars his attention is clearly set on establishing a late career high. With little filler and showcasing what he does best, the artfully constructed stories are relatable to the everyman. The music is also to note, containing some of his most beautiful arrangements and intricate musicianship. Western Stars only solidifies Springsteen’s mastery of songwriting and is a gift to his millions of fans including myself.

From llibnanoon 06/08/2020 14:23 | #253066

Enjoyed. Different direction for sure, however the Boss pulled it off well.

Good work by Bruce, favorite song Sleepy Joe's Café.

From UofTBlues 01/07/2020 15:52 | #246520

Western Stars has grown on me. Some beautiful lyrics. Tracks that stand out for me are Tuscon Train, There goes my Miracle & Hello Sunshine.

I applaud the production, as it makes decent lyrical content sound better. Not as good as Wrecking Ball but I'll gladly settle for records like this from an American treasure who is entering the sixth decade of his career.

Track Pick: Western Stars

this is best album since ghost of tom joad.beautiful on the ear.sold well her in uk but im surprised not as well liked in usa.it took only a couple of plays until I felt the love for it.not many albums i can say that instant love for it.

His best since the 80:s.

1. BORN TO RUN
2. DARKNESS
3. THE WILD, THE INNOCENT
4. GREETINGS
5. BORN IN THE USA
6.WESTERN STARS