"We Take Care of Our Own," Bruce Springsteen's new single off of his upcoming 17th studio album, Wrecking Ball, came out earlier this week. The buzz leading up to this album (and tour) is incredible, in part, because Springsteen hasn't toured in more than two years. And questions remain about how the Boss will handle the loss of E Street band anchor and saxophonist Clarence Clemons, who died back in June.

For now, we work with what we've got: a new Bruce song!

So, let's discuss what we know, shall we? "We Take Care of Our Own" is a myriad of different things. It's a rousing rock song, a melodic anthem (very very classic Springsteen in that sense) and a political analysis, of sorts. In short: It is an intense record and, in my opinion, one of Springsteen's best in recent years. I'll spare you my insane nit-picking analysis, except to say that I am in the camp that thinks that this song is NOT about how wonderful times are at the moment, despite lyrics like:
"Wherever this flag is flown,
We take care of our own."
No, I believe firmly that this song reflects where we are as a society right now: economically and morally. We're in the toilet. Sure, we're supposed to take care of our own - but have we been doing that?

A recent Hollywood Reporter article cited a "source" as saying that Bruce Springsteen believes that Wrecking Ball is the "angriest album he's ever made." I believe it. Even at 62, Springsteen continues to write highly relevant material. If "We Take Care of Our Own" is any indication, fans are in for a banner 2012.

Hopefully new tour dates are coming, soon!