BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN

Songs From Western Stars

COLUMBIA 8/10

Good but not entirely necessary live version of Western Stars

Bruce Springsteen has demonstrated Neil Young-levels of productivity these past 12 months, having released two films and three albums. The latest of these is a live accompaniment to Western Stars, recorded in Springsteen’s barn with a full orchestra and released in lieu of a tour. These live takes are faithful reproductions of the studio recordings, perhaps a little more sumptuous (“Hitch Hikin’” is particularly divine) but with Bruce’s voice more leathered and in your face. There’s also a swinging cover of “Rhinestone Cowboy”. Sounds great, but a little superfluous.