The release of anxiously awaited new music from Bruce Springsteen appears to be drawing closer, although there's still no official date to mark on the calendar. Multiple sources are reporting that Bruce is closing in on completing the previously announced new album that will accompany his upcoming return to the road with the E Street Band.

Fellow Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Bob Seger sheds even more light on the subject by telling Rolling Stone that “he's mastering it right now.” Seger had the chance to converse with Springsteen backstage after they shared the stage earlier this month at Madison Square Garden for a jam on Seger's 'Old Time Rock and Roll.' According to Bob, Bruce spoke very highly of the forthcoming album and said “it's really unusual and that it's the best thing he's done in years.”

Rumors suggest that Springsteen will play two months of U.S. dates beginning in March with a slight pause for his scheduled keynote address at South by Southwest. The U.S. shows will be followed by European dates set to kick off on May 13 in Spain.

Springsteen confirmed the long-rumored new album nearly a month ago when he announced both the album and accompanying tour. He said “we want you to know that the music is almost done [but still untitled and] we have almost settled on the release date [but not quite yet].”

It remains to be seen how Springsteen will handle the vacancy left on-stage by the death of beloved E Street saxophonist Clarence Clemons. The idea of a full horn section joining Bruce and band on the road as opposed to a singular replacement is one of a few possible scenarios that have been rumored within the Springsteen fan community.

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