Clarence Clemons - Hero

Driving energy from Bruce’s big man

It wasn’t surprising that Clemons’ second solo album broadly followed the established E Street Band template of which he was so much a part. His sax playing sits solidly within the exciting US rocking traditions of the instrument, both as a soloist and part of the band’s driving force. As a vocalist he’s arguably less distinctive, though perfectly competent, so it’s interesting to hear the vocal colour added to several tracks by a variety of back-up singers – as with the splitting of lines on the strong opener You’re A Friend Of Mine, and the shared lead with Darlene Love on The Sun Ain’t Gonna Shine (Anymore). Additional Saxophonist Craig Thomas also takes gutsy lead vocals on a couple of later tracks.

Conversely, the almost completely instrumental Liberation is a fine driving workout for Clemons, and there’s an obvious rapport between the players, including Booker T Jones on four tracks. If you had a taste for Springsteen’s big sound and enjoyed the twinkling keyboard embellishments of the 80 then this will certainly be one for you.

3 stars 3 stars 3 stars

SPV Yellow | 305752 CD

Reviewed by Kingsley Abbott
<< Back to Issue 357

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