It can’t be easy trying to establish a distinct identity for yourself as an artist when you happen to be married to one of the world’s biggest rock stars. Which might explain why Patti Scialfa (Mrs Bruce Springsteen) has released only two albums in 11 years. But to be fair to her, Scialfa is no Linda McCartney, and prior to joining the E-Street line-up in 1984, she’d enjoyed a long career as a singer. As far back as 1976 she was performing studio sessions for Narada Michael Walden and Don Cherry (Neneh’s trumpet-playing dad) and along the way she’s sung back-up for David Johansen, Southside Johnny & The Asbury Dukes and The Rolling Stones among others. (Besides, she scored her record deal long before she and Bruce became an item.)
Her follow up the 1993’s highly credible Rumble Doll, this is a clear and open homage to the New York City of her younger days – hence the title track and songs like ‘Young In The City’, ‘Chelsea Avenue’ and ‘City Boys’.
With a voice somewhere between Rickie Lee Jones, Emmylou Harris and Ronnie Spector, Scialfa sings passionately and nostalgically for her lost years in the big city but appears to accept the passage of time on ‘You Cant’ Go Back’
The songs range from the truly excellent (‘23rd Street Lullaby’, ‘Stumbling to Bethlehem’, ‘Chelsea Avenue’ and a gorgeous pair of ballads ‘Romeo’ and ‘Rose’) to the not-half-bad (‘Love Stands Up’ and ‘Each Other’s Medicine’).
Wisely, she hasn’t sought out too much help from hubby or her E-Street bandmates though Bruce makes a couple of low-key appearances, as does colleague Nils Lofgren. The production is a tad restrained at times and could do with being a bit rougher around the edges but this is a fine album and as good as anything by Shelby Lynn, Sheryl Crow or even Bonnie Raiit.
For now at least – she’s The Boss!