Tuesday, July 1, 2008

Classic Download of the Day: Bruce Springsteen's "Secret Garden"



He's not the called "The Boss" for nothing.

Bruce Springsteen has always been one of rock's definitive voices, thanks to a musical versatility that many of his contemporaries lack. For every "Born to Run" or "Dancing in the Dark", there was a "Streets of Philadelphia" or "Secret Garden".

"Secret Garden" is my one of my favorites from him. The beauty of this song lies within its simplicity. Considering how huge Jerry Maguire was, Bruce could've wrote something epic and bombastic. Instead, he chose a nice melody, adorned with the light strumming of a guitar and the fading in and out of a saxophone. All together, it made for a gorgeous composition that is timeless. The song is about the intimacy two people share in a relationship, wrapped in lyrical metaphors. The phrase "secret garden" probably has the most contentious meaning, depending on how one views love. Regardless of the lyrical interpretation, it is undeniable that the song is one of the most romantic songs ever written. It is romantic without being condescending or perverted, both of which are extremely prevailent in today's era.

My favorite part of the song is the end, with the beautiful saxophone coming in the forefront to lull the listener into a blissful state of relaxation.

The variety in Bruce Springsteen's catalog is what makes him one of music's elder statesmen. Whether he is rocking out and playing a soft guitar, you can never go wrong with "The Boss".

Rating: 10/10

3 comments:

Mitchell said...

Secret Garden is a great song, but of all Bruce's songs you could choose as a classic download, that's the one you pick? Why not Glory Days, or Jungleland? Brilliant Disguise, Growin' Up, Blinded By The Light, Spirit In The Night, The River, Hungry Heart, Human Touch...

I am not trying to knock Secret Garden, it's a great song, but the man has 38 years worth of songs to choose from. In my opinion, you made a poor choice.

Unknown said...

I'm not an expert on Bruce Springsteen, but it appears you are.

Feel free to write your own Download of the Day post, and I'll put it up.

Mitchell said...

Okay, expect an e-mail from me soon.

nrelate