It's hardly tearing up new ground to say it, but Springsteen's 1975 masterpiece, Born To Run, is what I would have no hesitation in naming as his greatest ever album. Born To Run saw a near abandonment of adolescent themes, and was the first time Springsteen nailed the art of story telling in his songs. But much more than that, the album just sounds bigger, thanks to a "wall of sound" style of production. Key to this success of course, was the saxophone of Clarence Clemons, which fits seamlessly into most songs, and is the focal power point of others. Like most of his best albums, it certainly helps that one of his most loved songs has a place on the records, but the title track has evolved into so much more than that. It is the Springsteen anthem; the working man screaming in frustration against the disappointments of life and striving to make something better for himself. It's a theme which unites the listeners and has a profound effect on all those who witness is performed live. But the album as a whole feels like you're watching an epic movie, such is the atmosphere and story telling. It is without doubt a masterpiece in the history of rock music. Do you agree with the selection, or are there any you think should/shouldn't have made the cut. Give your opinions in the comments section below.
