Search - Gary U.S. Bonds :: On the Line

Springsteen's true voice

08/29/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Twenty years after his first chart success with party hits like "Quarter to Three" and "Back to New Orleans" Gary US Bonds recorded two albums under the patronage of Bruce Springsteen. Dedication (1981) confirmed that Bonds' truly great voice was as good as ever. Well worth looking out for, with a stunning cover of Lennon/McCartney's "It's only Love" and Springsteen's "This Little Girl"
On The Line (1982), a near perfect set, is a classic rock album.
Largely written and produced by Springsteen and Steve van Zandt, with most of the E-streeters playing along with trademark licks from Clemons, Bittan and Federici.
Standout tracks "Club Soul City", "All I Need " both slower tracks that showcase the impeccable vocals from Bonds and , "Love's On The Line" (classic Springsteen with the boss wailing b.v.'s in the chorus), and my personal favourite Miami Steve's slow rocker "Last Time" which closes the set. Each of the four other Springsteen compositions is top shelf. But then this the perfect voice to deliver Springsteen songs.
Bonds own songs, "Bring Her Back" and "Turn The Music Down" are reminiscent of the party hits he started his career with and are overshadowed by the rest of the set. An absolute must for any Springsteen fan."

Gary has still got it

01/29/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is a great album for driving in the car and just for fun. Hold On (To What You Got) and Out of Work are #1 for singing along and even dancing around while doing chores. Turn the Music Down is just plain fun. Angelyne is a definite Bruce/Little Steven tune. If you like them, you'll like this album. If you are a Gary U.S. Bonds fan from way back, you won't be disappointed. Too bad it seems to be out of print."