Shore Fire Media announced Thursday that the first Bruce Springsteen and E Street studio CD in five years will appear on Oct. 2.
It's called "Magic." According to Jon Landau, Springsteen's manager, this one's very much a rock and roll CD, unlike his past two efforts -- "The Seeger Sessions" and subdued, folky "Devils & Dust." Clarence Clemons is reportedly featured pretty prominently.
"'Magic' is a high energy rock CD," Landua said, in the release. " It's light on its feet, incredibly well played by Bruce and the members of the E Street Band, and, as always, has plenty to say. It's also immensely entertaining."
Brendan O'Brien produced; he' also work on "The Rising." Of course, he's also worked extensively with Train.

A full-blown Springsteen & E Street Band tour is all but guaranteed; that'll likely start after the CD is released.

Looks like Erie will welcome back Trans-Siberian Orchestra for another year. TSO has become the most popular holiday tour in the world; last year's show sold out. This time, for the first time, we'll get TSO after Christmas. TSO lists a Jan. 3 date on its web site.

I don't think the late date will hurt; we're lucky TSO still includes Erie because it sells out larger venues in larger cities and can pretty much play wherever it wants. It's cool that TSO chooses to stay loyal to the audience it has cultivated here. That's not only how you win over fans but keep them.

No word yet on when tickets will go on sale.

If you haven't heard by now -- where've ya, been -- Cheektowaga? -- CelebrateErie starts tomorrow. Even if tribute bands or Bacon Brothers don't thrill you, get out and support your favorite local bands and restaurants.