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Only the Strong Survive
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Only the Strong Survive Image
Metascore
74

Generally favorable reviews - based on 17 Critic Reviews What's this?

User Score
7.0

Generally favorable reviews- based on 8 Ratings

  • Summary: The second full-length release of cover of soul songs from Bruce Springsteen features a guest appearance from Sam Moore.
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Critic Reviews

Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 12 out of 17
  2. Mixed: 5 out of 17
  3. Negative: 0 out of 17
  1. Mojo
    Nov 15, 2022
    80
    Springsteen's choice of songs, especially in the deep tracks and left turns, also i=underscores a deeper retrospect and aspiration. [Jan 2023, p.82]
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  2. PopMatters
    Nov 7, 2022
    80
    On Only the Strong Survive, Springsteen places his voice front and center, and his love for this timeless and joyous music is jubilant and infectious.
  3. Clash Music
    Nov 8, 2022
    80
    Without a doubt, ‘Only The Strong Survive’ exemplifies Springsteen’s unfaltering commitment to top-notch musicianship and production.
  4. Pitchfork
    Nov 11, 2022
    70
    It’s got character, and more than that, it’s got energy: Springsteen has never sounded quite so lighthearted, so unburdened, on record.
  5. Uncut
    Nov 15, 2022
    70
    There are times when, while applauding Springsteen's attempts to stay faithful to the originals, you wish he'd taken more chance. ... But that was not his intention, and it becomes hard to carp when he brings off something as triumphantly as his note-perfect version of Frank Wilson's "Do I Love You (Indeed I Do)". [Jan 2023, p.10]
  6. Classic Rock Magazine
    Nov 14, 2022
    60
    There are many less rewarding experiences than hearing Springsteen thirstily sing his favourite songs, but there’s a sense here that all concerned hope it would catch fire and amount to something more. [Dec 2022, p.76]
  7. Slant Magazine
    Nov 12, 2022
    50
    Only the Strong Survive is an expertly crafted collection, but a rougher hewn approach, with a sound closer in style to Stax Records than Dionne Warwick and Phil Spector, would have better honored the spirit of its source material.

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Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 3 out of 5
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 5
  3. Negative: 2 out of 5
  1. alvar000
    Nov 13, 2022
    10
    superb album, as always, bruce is a true legend, i’ve love every part of it
  2. jimlefferts
    Nov 12, 2022
    9
    This album is a success on many levels. For those who haven't been exposed to this great music it serves as a well curated introduction. ForThis album is a success on many levels. For those who haven't been exposed to this great music it serves as a well curated introduction. For fans of Springsteen or soul music it's a worthy, well produced alternate take on the songs you love. Springsteen's voice is up to the task, if occasionally not as strong as the original takes, and the arrangements often bring new life into the originals. The centerpiece is "Soul Days" a Dobie Gray cover that sets the tone "But my first love was always the songs...talking about those sweet soul days". This album is meant to be the soundtrack to those perfect sweet summer days taking "my baby for a ride." A highlight is "Don't Play That Song" a Ben E. King cover, but it's Aretha's version that rules. It captures the essence of sweet soul music. The singer has been done wrong, lied to and left alone. But rather than the vindictive bitterness in much of today's
    popular music (Taylor?) the singer's response is "I don't care if you lied. let's dance". Such is the beauty of soul music full of strength, hope and resilience epitomized in the title cut, a cover of Jerry Butler's signature track "Only the Strong Survive".    … Expand
  4. ROBYWON
    Nov 16, 2022
    7
    Springsteen is Springsteen. Anchored in his music, perhaps he should have listened to Beyoncé's 'Renaissance' to realize that his steadfastSpringsteen is Springsteen. Anchored in his music, perhaps he should have listened to Beyoncé's 'Renaissance' to realize that his steadfast country and rock spirit should probably intertwine with other sounds. That said, it is a full album, for sure fans a safe harbor, but without a storm that brings new air.… Expand
  5. someonewhocares
    Nov 11, 2022
    3
    Although With plenty of character, Springsteen still fails to deliver a consistent and fun body of work.
  6. jimmypowder
    Nov 11, 2022
    0
    Springsteen is all washed up. Utter garbage....................................................