Inspite of ‘Devils and Dust’(2005) proving a slight downswing in his career, The Boss still makes good music, even though ‘We Shall Overcome’is an album of songs written by other people. The Seeger Sessions is based on songs written by Pete Seeger, a legendary folk singer and political activist. Springsteen is backed by a small group featuring his wife, Patti Scialfa, the E Street band violinist Soozie Tyrell and other New Jersey musicians.

The live recording was conducted as the musicians played their instruments in a purely informal session, so expect some chatter, shouting in between tracks. All this crystal clear, and as you single out Springsteen’s rendition, look out for a range of musical instruments like fiddles, banjos, accordions, pump organs and horns. Tune into pieces like the moving O Mary don’t you weep, Jesse James, Erie Canal, We Shall Overcome and the finale Froggie went a Courtin’.

The album is sure to make a mark with fans of Bruce Springsteen, Pete Seeger and classic rock fanatics. You can label this street corner music, parlor music, church music or tavern music. One thing remains that these songs touch a chord that reaches into the American past of the 1940s, that make the album a worth listen not once but many times over.

Rating: *****

Reviewed by Verus Ferreira