Bruce Springsteen: MTV Unplugged (1992)
**** (out of 4)
When you look back on the MTV show Unplugged you can't help but get somewhat excited because it gave us a chance to see some very big names doing acoustic music. Well, unless you were Bob Dylan or Bruce Springsteen and you brought the band with you.
While this might not be a "true" unplugged performance, there's no question that fans of Springsteen will love this concert as it features some great tracks. Yes, it's true that the E Street Band aren't backing him but members do appear throughout. The concert gets off to a terrific start with an acoustic version of Red Headed Woman, which gets everything off with a nice punch. The at the time current tracks of Better Days and Local Hero are both extremely good and then we get into classics like Atlantic City, Darkness on the Edge of Town and Growin' Up.
There's a great and rare performance of Man's Job and I Wish I Were Blind as well as a duet with his wife on Human Touch. Throw in a rocking version of Glory Days, a touching Thunder Road and a loud and insane LIght of Day and you've really got a terrific concert. Those who buy the DVD will also be treated to three songs that weren't originally shown on the television show including a terrific version of If I Should Fall Behind.
At just under two hours there's no question that Springsteen fans will enjoy this. If you're new to Springsteen it's not going to give you that legendary E Street show but there's still a lot of great energy and power from the legend and it's a great place to start.