BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN High Hopes

Following up his 2012 album Wrecking Ball was never going to be difficult for Bruce Springsteen, or The Boss, but this collection of covers, touched-up rejected album tracks and studio recordings of live exclusives really will please fans, both old and new. The high-charged title opener of the 64-year-old’s 18th album introduces the record’s novelty: Rage Against The Machine (RATM) guitarist Tom Morello adding his distinctive solos. Morello appears on eight of the 12 tracks, shining on gospel-tinged Heaven’s Wall and RATM favourite, The Ghost Of Tom Joad. Springsteen’s E Street Band is as delightful as ever, particularly the brass on Just Like Fire Would, while the inclusion of late Clarence Clemons on Harry’s Place brings a melancholy note soon counteracted by the cheesy-rock of Frankie Fell In Love. All great fun.

8.5/10

BETH NIELSEN CHAPMAN Uncovered Beth Nielsen Chapman’s latest release is a collection of well-known hits that the Texan-born singer-songwriter was responsible for writing, but had never recorded herself - until now. Out of the 12 tracks on Uncovered, seven topped the charts, albeit in her native America. The uninitiated UK listener will more than likely recognise This Kiss, released by Faith Hill in 1998 and reaching 13 in the charts, while fans of country legend Willie Nelson will enjoy Chapman’s take on Nothin’ I Can Do About It Now, a track which featured on his 1989 album A Horse Called Music. Pray, featuring Amy Grant, is the real highlight on an enjoyable album.

7/10

ANAXATON6 Juju Grid (Go Live)

A funky coupling of Swindon’s own Barry Andrews (XTC, Shriekback) and Mike Tournier, of Fluke, Anaxaton6’s first EP is a jangling and vibrant four-track delight, surging with energy. Let’s hope they do more.

8/10