Bruce Springsteen Unearths ‘Repo Man’: A Country Gem From ‘The Lost Albums’
Bruce Springsteen fans, get ready for a treat! The Boss has just released "Repo Man," a previously unreleased track from his upcoming box set, Tracks II: The Lost Albums. This lively, rockabilly-infused tune provides a fascinating glimpse into a creative period where Springsteen simultaneously explored socially conscious themes and his passion for country music.
“Repo Man” hails from the “lost album” Somewhere North of Nashville, a project Springsteen recorded alongside 1995's critically acclaimed The Ghost of Tom Joad. According to Springsteen, the two projects were deeply intertwined. "What happened was I wrote all these country songs at the same time I wrote The Ghost of Tom Joad. Those sessions completely overlap each other. I’m singing ‘Repo Man’ in the afternoon and ‘The Line’ at night. So the country record got made right along with The Ghost of Tom Joad," Springsteen explained.
While The Ghost of Tom Joad took a more subdued, acoustic approach, "Repo Man" showcases Springsteen's rowdier side. The track features E Street Band members Danny Federici and Garry Tallent, along with Gary Mallaber, Marty Rifkin, and Soozie Tyrell, creating a vibrant and infectious sound.
Tracks II: The Lost Albums is set to release on June 27 and promises a treasure trove of unreleased material. This box set gathers seven "lost albums" recorded between 1983 and 2018, spanning a diverse range of styles. "Repo Man" follows the release of "Rain in the River," "Blind Spot," and "Faithless," whetting fans' appetites for more.
The full list of "lost albums" in the compilation are LA Garage Sessions ’83, Streets of Philadelphia Sessions, Faithless, Somewhere North of Nashville, Inyo, Twilight Hours and Perfect World, all recorded between 1983 and 2018.
The release of "Repo Man" underscores Springsteen's consistent exploration of different genres and his willingness to share previously unheard material with his fans. What other hidden gems await within Tracks II: The Lost Albums? Only time will tell.
What are your thoughts on "Repo Man"? Share your opinions and predictions for the rest of Tracks II: The Lost Albums in the comments below!