A friend of mine and I arrived at the same conclusion completely independently -- we both became ear fatigued from the new Springsteen "Magic" album after about three listens.

Our view is that the record is compressed to death so that every instrument is coming up at the same level. Most likely as a result of this compression, the high end frequencies of the record are extremely emphasized so that the drums, cymbals and percussion all come in not only indistinguishable but like white noise.

I'm curious if any of you who own the album have come to the same or similar conclusion.


Drew

Drew,

I haven't had a chance to listen to the album yet(my bad.. being a good Jersey boy), but a week or two ago I did catch his live performance with the E-Streeters on CBS(?) morning show. What struck me is the lack of dynamics and hooks in the newer lyric/music itself, something that I always liked about his approach in the past. Consistant go, and not enough pause. As you mentioned, it also seemed like everyone was playing at once. Not bad, if they're playing memorable hooks that stick in your head, but...

He also used to record with very hip producers in an excellent studio. Mabee that's changed. Now I have to go spend money on the CD. Thanks a lot, Drew .

Here are a couple links to reviews of his earlies stuff, which touch on what I'm suggesting as to old stuff VS. new:

http://blogcritics.org/archives/2007/08/30/002903.php

http://www.superseventies.com/springsteen.html

Best, Paul

Don't know if you're still reading here or even still care, but here's a link to a thread on the new Bruce 'recording'. Pretty much confirms your diagnosis.

http://recforums.prosoundweb.com/index.php/t/19730/16864/

Paul

Sad to hear about the weakening quality of Springsteen's music. I am personally a Springsteen fan, loving all his past records and hits. I have to check out this new one. Been quite busy, dont have so much time to spare listening to new albums, etc. I am just a newbie guitarist, should I say. Coming across this thread is helpful. Gotta check out for myself if what everybody's saying is true. But hey, any redeeming factor for Spingsteen? Hate to see a good artist going to the dumps.
:lol: