On this episode, we finally complete our look at the Holy Trinity of the Jersey Shore sound by diving headfirst into the 1982 debut by Little Steven and the Disciples of Soul - Men Without Women (We talked about the other two on Episode 34 - Springsteen and Episode 38 - Southside Johnny). It is not hyperbole to say that Steven Van Zandt has likely done more to promote rock-n-roll and rhythm and blues than any other musician alive today. A fine musician in his own right, Van Zandt cut his teeth working with Springsteen in several bands before joining the E Street Band as a rhythm guitarist and horn arranger. He’s also a top-notch songwriter, having written a great many of Southside Johnny's best songs.
On Men Without Women Van Zandt uses his horn arranging skills to full effect. Little Steven is deadly serious about his rock-n-roll. Backed by the Miami Horns and getting some assistance from fellow E-Street band members (including Springsteen himself), the songs on this album are powerful and earnest. Fortunately, they are also flat-out fun.
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