December downloads

iTunes

The Promise. After 1975’s Born to Run blasted New Jersey rascal Bruce Springsteen into the rock-n-roll stratosphere, he and his E Street Band hunkered down in New York City to record 1978’s hard-edged, paired down follow-up, Darkness on the Edge of Town. Springsteen wrote and recorded more than 30 songs for that record. Only 10 made the final cut. Twenty unreleased tunes, plus an alternate version of “Racing in the Streets” are available now for the first time on a deluxe reissue of the album. Perhaps the best of the bunch is the sweetly orchestrated and lilting “The Promise.” Meet the new Boss, same as the old Boss.

YouTube

Christmas lights gone wild. The next time you think your elaborate Christmas lights are the town talk, watch this video for some synchronized glory and healthy serving of humble pie. Driving by should require admission, but it makes you wonder if the neighbors get any sleep.