Western Stars (LP)

Bruce Springsteen's first new studio album in five years takes his music to a new place, drawing inspiration from the Southern California pop records of the late '60s and early '70s.

"This record is a return to my solo recordings featuring character driven songs and sweeping, cinematic orchestral arrangements," says Springsteen. "It's a jewel box of a record."

The 13 tracks of WESTERN STARS encompass a sweeping range of American themes, of highways and desert spaces, of isolation and community and the permanence of home and hope.

The musical arrangements include strings, horns, pedal steel and contributions from more than 20 other players including Jon Brion (who plays celeste, Moog, and farfisa), as well as guest appearances by David Sancious, Charlie Giordano, and Soozie Tyrell. The album was mixed by 13-time Grammy winner Tom Elmhirst.