Bruce Springsteen's Magic Touch: Unearthing His Most Underrated Songs

Bruce Springsteen is an iconic American singer-songwriter known for his captivating music and powerful lyrics. His ability to create magical songs is unparalleled, as he effortlessly tells compelling stories and touches the hearts of his listeners. One of Springsteen's most famous and magical songs is "Born to Run." Released in 1975, this song instantly became an anthem for freedom and youth. Its energetic melody and heartfelt lyrics transport the listener to a world of dreams, longing, and the desire to break free from the constraints of life. It's a song that resonates with people of all generations and continues to be celebrated as a timeless classic.

This is not an album that is going to knock you back, there will never be another “Greetings From Asbury Park,” or a “The Wild, The Innocent & The East Street Shuffle” . Bruce began this introspective journey somewhere during the release of “Tunnel Of Love,” and while every now and then there is a blazing spark to remind us of what brought him to the attention of the world . for the most part, Bruce seems to be playing with an electric folk sort of sound, much as The Byrds did in the mid 60’s. So if you reset you mind, there is nothing disappointing here . it is all just different. One of the major differences is that the music feels thick, as if there are actually no spaces what so ever . the sound is all inclusive and all encompassing, leaving you barely any room to talk a breath.

it s as if he has actually learned to play, or perhaps he s taken some cues after all of these years form those around him, like Nils; who is nothing short of top shelf when it comes to guitar playing. Other than these pressing quality defects, the album is good very good, and I can hear already some of the musical trends Bruce s music did take in the future, trends that, as a long time Bruce fan, I do not particularly like.

It's a song that resonates with people of all generations and continues to be celebrated as a timeless classic. Another magical song by Bruce Springsteen is "Thunder Road." The opening harmonica and piano chords set a nostalgic tone as Springsteen's raspy voice croons about love, dreams, and the open road.

Bruce Springsteen – Magic

5/5 as a Bruce album. 4/5 due to the mediocre pressing. I’m assuming this is repressed from the 2007 version so they’re essentially the same pressings. This is a very underrated Bruce & E Street Band record. Highly recommended!!

Such an ordinary pressing of a great Springsteen LP. Not the normal hard rock you get from him, more commercially inclined. But the sound is so ordinary, sounds like they recorded, mixed and pressed it in the toilet.

I don't get the hate or non-enthusiasm for this album. Its one of Bruce's best song writing wise. The vinyl version sounds great, though its not a super awesome A+ cut, but its definitely not terrible for the ears and quite.

I dunno everyone says this sounds good but its kinda flat sounding to me. No pounding drums or bass like on my cd copy. This is kinda average when i wanna hear this album im just gonna listen to the cd

Firs U.S. pressing, brand new album that came warped and dirty, with noticeable marks on both sides that did not go away after cleaning the record twice. In addition to that, lots of surface noise that are specially bothering in the song 'Magic.' Finally, I have not put this to a scale, but I highly doubt this is 180 gram vinyl as the hype sticker claims.

Other than these pressing quality defects, the album is good/very good, and I can hear already some of the musical trends Bruce's music did take in the future, trends that, as a long time Bruce fan, I do not particularly like. This is very notable in a song like 'I'll Work for Your Love' (it reminds so much to the upcoming 'Working on a Dream'). This is the last E Street Album with Danny Federici on keyboards.

My copy also has 'Terry's Song' at the end. I believe it should be added to the release.

P.S.: BTW, I bought this album when it came out, and I was checking my order details from AZ, and I paid $13.28. This is how 'cheap' new albums were at the time (2007), when barely anybody was buying vinyl records.

NB: My copy does have 'Terry's Song' at the end, unlisted. Have not amended release as don't know if this is standard or whether two versions of the LP may exist.

Wish the entire CD sounded like track "Magic" with distinct instruments and not a wall of sound like most of CD is. A real pity as the songs IMHO are the best since "Born in the USA". Until a better mix is availbale guess we are stuck with this clearly inferior mix of the CD.

Man O Man, don’t you love it when an artist does a 180 . not only their voice but their songs almost unrecognizable . well that’s just what Bruce Springsteen has done here on “Magic,” delivering a splendidly personal album . one on which the songs reminded me of the late Warren Zevon, yet wrapped around the delivery and sophistication of Bryan Ferry. Bruce has turned a major corner here, driving us home like a “Gypsy Biker” to a whole new set of sounds.

Rather then the music being the center of attention, Bruce has continued his introspective journey, determining who he is, as both a wealthy man, a man who needs for nothing, yet still yearns because there is a burning in his heart for not only the music, but for a passion . yet I don’t believe he has discovered just who he is, nor what he's passionate about . other then the music itself. But that's not an odd thing in the least, I've been searching for myself my whole life . in my head I'm still twenty one, in my head I can still rock all night, in my head my feet still have wings . and yes, I struggle when I try to determine just who I am at this stage. I do know that I spend a lot of time observing, seeing things for what they actually are, feeling truth . and perhaps that's where Bruce is at also, and his passion is trying to find that voice, that voice, like a warm hand caressing a lovers skin, finally moving right in time with her.

I for one am willing to wait, because here on “Magic” Bruce still manages to conjure the magic out of his signature guitar sound, but more, there is the feel that his guitar is now his friend, rather then an extension of himself . it’s as if he has actually learned to play, or perhaps he’s taken some cues after all of these years form those around him, like Nils; who is nothing short of top shelf when it comes to guitar playing . and come to think of it, several of his songs have that early Nils vib going on. Make no mistake, below the vocals rest all of the instrumental work one would expect from Bruce, in all of their glory, it’s just that he no longer feels the need to smack you up side the head with it. All of the musicians sound centered and at peace . the sax played by Clarence floats like smoke, while the rest of the band rolls on . with complete enchantment.

This is not an album that is going to knock you back, there will never be another “Greetings From Asbury Park,” or a “The Wild, The Innocent & The East Street Shuffle” . Bruce began this introspective journey somewhere during the release of “Tunnel Of Love,” and while every now and then there is a blazing spark to remind us of what brought him to the attention of the world . for the most part, Bruce seems to be playing with an electric folk sort of sound, much as The Byrds did in the mid 60’s. So if you reset you mind, there is nothing disappointing here . it is all just different. One of the major differences is that the music feels thick, as if there are actually no spaces what so ever . the sound is all inclusive and all encompassing, leaving you barely any room to talk a breath.

Me? I don’t want to keep buying the same albums over and over again . his last few releases have been a breath of fresh air for me, and I’m enjoying them . yeah, it may be my age, it may be Bruce’s age . but his music speaks to me on a face to face level, and therein lies the magic.

Review by Jenell Kesler

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This song is a beautiful ode to youthful aspirations and the pursuit of a better life. The words and melodies weave together to create an enchanting experience that stirs the soul and remains etched in one's memory. "Dancing in the Dark" is yet another magical song by Springsteen. Released in 1984, it captures the essence of yearning, frustration, and the search for meaning. The catchy rhythm and infectious chorus make it impossible to resist tapping your feet along, while Springsteen's lyrics delve into the complexities of life and relationships. The song's message is universal, and it continues to inspire listeners to keep fighting for their dreams, even in the darkest of times. Lastly, "The River" is an incredibly moving and magical song by Bruce Springsteen. Released in 1980, this song explores the themes of loss, resilience, and the struggle to find stability. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a working-class couple facing the challenges of life together, with Springsteen's raw vocals tugging at the heartstrings. It's a song that captures the human experience and reminds us of the power of love and perseverance. In summary, Bruce Springsteen has created a collection of magical songs throughout his illustrious career. Whether it's the anthemic "Born to Run," the nostalgic "Thunder Road," the infectious "Dancing in the Dark," or the profound "The River," each song has a unique ability to transport listeners to another world. Springsteen's music is a testament to his skill as a storytelling songwriter and his ability to touch the souls of his audience with his enchanting melodies and lyrics..

Reviews for "Exploring Bruce Springsteen's Acoustic Magic: His Most Stripped-Down and Intimate Songs"

1. John - 2/5 stars - I was really disappointed with "Bruce Springsteen Magic Songs". The album lacked the energy and passion that I expect from Springsteen. The songs felt uninspired and generic, without any memorable hooks or lyrics. It's a shame because I'm usually a fan of his work, but this album fell flat for me.

2. Sarah - 1/5 stars - I couldn't even finish listening to "Bruce Springsteen Magic Songs". The songs were all one-dimensional and repetitive, and Springsteen's voice sounded strained and tired. It felt like he was just going through the motions without any real heart or emotion. I'm a huge fan of his earlier music, but this album was a major letdown.

3. Michael - 2/5 stars - "Bruce Springsteen Magic Songs" left me underwhelmed. The album lacked the storytelling and depth that Springsteen is known for. The songs felt rushed and poorly produced, with muddy instrumentation and unclear vocals. It's sad to say, but this album just didn't capture the magic that I was hoping for.

4. Emily - 2/5 stars - As a longtime fan of Bruce Springsteen, I was expecting so much more from "Bruce Springsteen Magic Songs". Unfortunately, it fell short of my expectations. The songs lacked the catchy hooks and memorable melodies that I love about his music. It felt like a collection of forgettable tracks that didn't have the same impact as his previous work. I hope his next album will be better.

5. David - 1/5 stars - "Bruce Springsteen Magic Songs" was a complete disappointment for me. The songs all blended together, with no distinct sound or memorable moments. It felt like Springsteen was trying to replicate his past success without bringing anything new to the table. I found myself bored and uninterested throughout the entire album. Definitely not one of his best.

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