Springsteen-esque

We no longer hear so much about the "New Dylans" coming along. It turned out the old Dylan was just fine, thank you very much.  If you happen to be one who has not yet listened to "Modern Times", Dylan’s brilliant recording from last year – well, as soon as you are done here – go buy it.

Dad’s Guarantee – Money Back if not delighted.

But, we aren’t here today to praise Bob, but to discuss the Springsteen-esque phenomenon.  Numerous recent releases have been widely regarded as being "Springsteen-esque", including Sam’s Town by The Killers. On the song "When You Were Young" they go as far as to mimic the step down to build up and explode from the middle of "Born to Run". They stop just short of yelling "One Two Thee Four!" but I am sure they were tempted… 

Then we have The Hold Steady. "Boys and Girls in America"  which sounds like the Boss if he went on a 3 month bender and showed up wild-eyed and unshaven with a notebook full of visions – threw it at the band and said "Here – find some derelict to sing this stuff – I need a nap."  But trust me here – this is a good thing. 

Which brings me to The Arcade Fire’s brilliant "Neon Bible".  This album is so freakin huge that it can’t be fully felt on an ipod, or in a car, or on tiny home speakers – You need HUGE Speakers and a Big Room – Klipsch Horns in a Church would be about right.  Then spread a futon on the floor and alternate between sitting pinned to your seat, jumping up and punching the air with your fist  and falling flat on your back rolling in the cathartic waves of sonic bliss.   If Klipsch horns, a church and a futon are not readily available – just make do with what you have and pretend.  But I think you’ll get the idea. 

The Perfect Stereo system for "Neon Bible" and Beethoven’s 9th…