Bruce Springsteen’s ‘Tracks II: The Lost Albums’ is not just a collection—it’s a revelation. Spanning seven previously unreleased LPs recorded between 1983 and 2018, this colossal 83-song anthology paints a vivid portrait of Springsteen’s extraordinary versatility as a songwriter. Whether channeling a late-’60s adult contemporary balladeer or a mariachi bandleader, each track on this sequel to 1998’s ‘Tracks’ tells its own story while contributing to the grand narrative of Springsteen’s career.
‘LA Garage Sessions ’83,’ recorded during the same period as the iconic ‘Born in the U.S.A.,’ sets the tone with its raw rockabilly vibe. Tracks like ‘My Hometown’ in its nascent form reveal a glimpse of the structure that would eventually captivate stadiums worldwide. Fast forward to ‘Streets of Philadelphia Sessions’ (1994), where the dark, hip-hop-influenced ‘Blind Spot’ marks a stark contrast, showcasing Springsteen’s willingness to experiment with new sounds and styles.
The journey continues with ‘Faithless’ (2005-06), an album that captures the introspective depth Springsteen intended for a ‘spiritual western’ film that never materialized. Meanwhile, ‘Somewhere North of Nashville’ (1995) intertwines country elements, recorded alongside ‘The Ghost of Tom Joad,’ offering a meditative reflection on American life.
As the collection progresses, ‘Twilight Hours’ (2010-18) introduces an orchestral grandeur reminiscent of Burt Bacharach, while ‘Inyo’ (1997) takes listeners on a cinematic road trip through California, complete with mariachi flourishes. The final installment, ‘Perfect World,’ is a patchwork of sessions spanning decades, featuring the thrusting ‘I’m Not Sleeping’ and the lush ‘Follow the Sun.’
‘Bruce Springsteen’s Tracks II: The Lost Albums’ is not merely a supplemental addition to his discography; it’s an alternate history, a testament to the breadth of his creativity. While these albums were shelved for various reasons, the collection stands as a cohesive showcase of Springsteen’s songwriting genius, highlighting his ability to evoke cinematic landscapes and emotional depth. For fans and newcomers alike, ‘Tracks II’ offers an unparalleled look into the mind of a musical legend.
