It took The Boss almost nine years from his British chart debut to finally achieve a No.1 album. Now at the age of 71, Bruce Springsteen notches up his 12th as Letter To You becomes far and away the biggest new release of the week.

The veteran rocker's 20th studio album is his first in six years with the E Street Band in tow, something you suspect is part of its appeal. His 20th Top 5 album, it debuts at ...