Some interesting new interpretations
06/03/2001
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Made in the U.S.A. is the most recent of the Springsteen tributes, following Cover Me, The Bruce Springsteen Songbook (UK), One Step Up/Two Steps Back, Pickin' On Springsteen and Badlands. I wasn't sure what to expect. Unlike Badlands, which had been widely publicized by Sub Pop, I more or less stumbled upon this Purple Pyramid release. Unlike some of the earlier cover/tribute albums that had some previously released songs (i.e. Because the Night by Patti Smith or Fire by the Pointer Sisters) or a focus (Badlands, which was a tribute to his Nebraska album), Made In the USA is an interesting blend of songs spanning Springsteen's career. There are also many notable guests, such as Mike Love on Hungry Heart and Ronnie Spector on Brilliant Disguise. The opening and closing of the CD, along with two interludes, offers brief instrumental adaptations of Born In the USA. Overall, the songs are pretty good and several of the interpreations are unique, although this album is not as good as Badlands or One Step Up/Two Steps Back. I would say that it is a must for any huge Springsteen fan or collector, and even the casual fan might find it interesting. Although, if you are not a big fan of cover/tribute albums, you might want to skip this one."