Songs for the End of the World
Most of Rick Springfield’s fans discovered him in the 1980’s, when the pop singer burst onto the American music scene with the teen mega-hit, "Jessie’s Girl," while at the same time gaining national exposure as Dr. Noah Drake on the daytime soap, "General Hospital."
Seventeen Top-40 recordings and 20 million record sales later, the Aussie’s international fans continue to desire new products from the object of their affection. He has released five new albums since 2004, including 2008’s "Venus in Overdrive," and a collection of lullabies for his children in 2009. The rocker may have passed the 60-year old plateau, but he still knows how to lay down the infectious guitar grooves like a 20-something, as he does on his latest release, "Songs For The End of The World." From the crunching guitars and snare drum procession of the opening cut, "Wide Awake," to the closer, "One Way Street," Springfield and his bandmates (including long time bassist Matt Bissonette), don’t let up on this mélange of rock and roll displays. Topics range from family and relationships to Springfield’s lifelong battle with depression, which show up on several of the tunes including "I Hate Myself," "Love Screws Me Up," and the jam of this 53-minute set, "Depravity."
The twelve song original release is complemented by four bonus tracks, including an inspirational live cover of the Paul McCartney classic, "Jet." Purchase of the digital album also entitles Springfield’s fans to exclusive extra content, and four variations of cover art, each depicting the artist’s tongue-in-cheek view of possible ways the world may reach its final downbeat (Mayan, Cold War, Armageddon and Tarot).
A tour in support of the release is currently making its way around North America, and Springfield’s 2010 autobiography, "Late, Late at Night," is still available online and in book stores. It’s refreshing to see an ageless rocker who still cares for his audience, and can deliver the goods with his music.
"Songs For The End of The World"
Rick Springfield
CD and Digital formats
Universal Music Enterprises
