StageSide with Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band

The Boss is back in town.

Bruce Springsteen’s latest musical sojourn is now underway, and it’s evoking some decades-old memories. The tour celebrates the reissue of 1980’s The River—and, to mark the occasion, Springsteen and the E Street Band are performing the double album in its entirety. They’ll make a stop in Philadelphia this month, playing the Wells Fargo Center on Feb. 12.

While many have decried the lengthy 20-song set list, Springsteen and company are finding plenty of time in the three-and-a-half-hour show to slip in some old favorites and a few surprises. Thus far, the second half of the show has been entirely unpredictable—much to the delight of fans. Among the favorites are tributes to the recently departed David Bowie and Glen Frey: Covers of “Rebel Rebel” and “Take it Easy” have popped up. Let’s hope that list doesn’t get any longer as the tour progresses.

The E Street Band has been pared down for this tour; no backup singers, percussionists or horn sections. Jake Clemons—a poignant and skilled reminder of his uncle, the late Clarence Clemons—provides sax. It’s the common core, if you will, the essence of the E Street Band.

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On past occasions, Patti Scialfa, Springsteen’s wife, has had to forgo traveling to be with their children. She’s back in the fold this time, as is more recent E Street Band addition, violinist and vocalist Soozie Tyrell.

 

Wells Fargo Center
3601 S. Broad St., Philadelphia
Friday, Feb. 12
Tickets start at $68
Visit www.wellsfargocenterphilly.com

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