Why the Boss still matters

Springsteen set focuses on newer material

Andrew Kerbs

Bruce Springsteen’s recent Hartford concert was energetic and refreshing. His set was very up to date and set the tempo for his new generation of fans.

His songwriting has matured, and he now includes a fiddle-player alongside his harmonica. Many of the songs played were post-9/11, highlights of which included “The Rising,” cuts off “Lucky Town” and the thunderous “Radio Nowhere” off the hot new CD.Never once did the Boss pander to nostalgists. Only one ’80s song was included (the obscure but tight “Darlington County”), although he did play the obligatory “Badlands”, and the get-up and clap your hands “Born to Run” from his first few albums (what everyone waited for). A blast was had by all.

Once compared in the early ’70s to Dylan, Bruce got his start playing in numerous bands along the Jersey Coast. I had the privilege of seeing him set off fireworks ages ago at a family friend’s riverfront home.I was far too shy to meet him (as he hates attention during downtime... and my Dad’s friend didn’t help by blasting “Born in the USA” through his PA system that night for 100 people to hear), but the townlife and roadscapes his songs bespeak reflect images of my own youth. His lyrics hold for me that personal connection that give me hope during confusing times. Seeing him live fulfilled that promise.

The E Street band is by no means spent. Steve Van Zandt’s lower lip curled grotesquely through his axe-sharp solos – complimenting Clarence Clemens puffy-cheeked sax-blowing and Bruce’s hoarse, face-scrunching vocals.

Those who dispense with the E-Streets as 20th-century has beens are missing an exciting show. His songs hit home, and left us thirsty for more.