The Boss is back with a new album. Bruce Springsteen has steadily put out new material since the ’70s, but this is his first since the passing of saxophone player Clarence Clemons. The Big Man died suddenly this past summer and was one of the pillars of The E Street Band. Even with the Big Man gone, Bruce and the band have persevered with their signature brand of Americana-inspired rock.

Springsteen generally doesn’t stray too far from what he does best. However, he does with “Wrecking Ball,” as there is an apparent, random Celtic music influence. This can be heard most prominently in “Death to My Hometown,” “American Land” and is sprinkled on a few other tracks. Aside from that, it’s typical Bruce subject matter. “We Take Care of Our Own,” “Land of Hope and Dreams” and a few others talk about both the hardships and the greatness of America. No surprise there, considering this is the theme of every Bruce album since his debut in 1973, and that’s why we love him.

Bruce is a classic, but what the album lacks most is that stand-out song where Bruce really gives it his all and rocks out like the New Jersey stud he is. Bottom line: less Irish and more of the good ol’ red, white and blue emotion please.

Grade: B-

Recommended Songs: “You’ve Got It” and “Rocky Ground”