Record stores, radio stations and — most of all — rock music fans are gearing up for the imminent release of the next Bruce Springsteen album, an anxiously awaited, five-record, 40-song, live set. It features three hours and 35 minutes of music.

Larry Campbell still remembers the voicemail he received early this spring, and from a familiar voice: “This is Bruce Springsteen. You know, I’m Patti Scialfa’s husband.” Campbell knew Springsteen’s tongue was planted firmly in cheek. The veteran ...