The second video from Bruce Springsteen‘s new album, Wrecking Ball, has been released. ‘Rocky Ground’ is a mournful and reflective piece built around a drum loop and a 1942 field recording by famed archivist Alan Lomax. Gospel singer Michelle Moore, who has been on tour with Springsteen performing ‘Rocky Ground,’ sings the title line and contributes a 16-bar rap in the middle. Horns and a percussive wah-wah pedal guitar are added for effect.

A sense of optimism pervades the song, with its Biblical imagery complementing with the mostly black-and-white video. Americana at its most thoughtful!

The video was directed by Thom Zimny, who has worked with Springsteen on a number of projects and also edited ‘The Wire’ television series.