Bruce Springsteen's manager has revealed new details of the singer's forthcoming album, Wrecking Ball, promising an "experimental" and "big-picture piece of work". The LP – described by Jon Landau, who has managed Springsteen since 1976, as having "social overtones" – includes contributions by Rage Against the Machine's Tom Morello, as well as members of the E Street Band.
"It's a rock record that combines elements of both Bruce's classic sound and his Seeger Sessions experience, with new textures and styles," Landau told Rolling Stone magazine. "It extends and deepens the vision that has animated all of Bruce's work." But according to a recent article in the Hollywood Reporter, the songs are more strident than usual: "[Bruce] gets into economic justice quite a bit," explained an "earwitness". "He feels it's the angriest album he's ever made."
This is Springsteen's first record with rock producer Ron Aniello, who has previously worked with Candlebox, Jars of Clay and the Barenaked Ladies. "Bruce and Ron used a wide variety of players to create something that both rocks and is very fresh," Landau said. According to the Hollywood Reporter, the arrangements include electronic loops and percussion, as well as hip-hop and Irish folk influences.
The album is Springsteen's first since the death in June 2011 of his long-time colleague Clarence Clemons. The E Street saxophonist is believed to appear on one new song, Land of Hope and Dreams, which will be dedicated to him.
Wrecking Ball is due on 5 March. The single We Take Care of Our Own is out now.
