“Long Walk Home” lost its way in the studio, but in its original and acoustic arrangements, it’s one of Bruce’s finest and most relevant 21st century songs.
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Magic (20)
Craig Finn’s obscure cover of a more-relevant-than-ever Springsteen deep cut gives Bruce’s original a run for its money.
“Gypsy Biker” is one of Bruce’s angriest songs and best modern vocals. Filled with loss, regret, rage, and resignation, it’s an emotional powerhouse that anchors the Magic album.
Recycled melange or original organ donor? Either way, “American Beauty” ranks among the best songs of Bruce’s Magic period.
It won Bruce a Grammy he didn’t even know he was nominated for. It’s full of hidden callbacks to “Thunder Road” and echoes of “Born to Run.” It’s my favorite 21st-century Springsteen song, and it mystifies Bono with its relative obscurity. Listen to “Girls in Their Summer Clothes” like you’ve never heard it before inside.
“What Love Can Do” is a reminder that while love can’t solve society’s ills, it can give us the strength to face them. It’s more timely now than when Bruce wrote it.
Musical cousin but lyrical opposite to “Lucky Town,” “You’ll Be Comin’ Down” is an under-the-radar track (perhaps justifiably) from Bruce’s Magic album.
Written less than three days after the passing of its inspiration, “Terry’s Song” is at once intensely personal and universal. It reminds us of the importance of truly knowing the people in our lives.
“Life Itself” bridges the themes of Magic and Working on a Dream–a neat trick in itself.
