Rick Springfield to play at Planting Fields

BY GLENN GAMBOA | glenn.gamboa@newsday.com

July 24, 2008

Singer Rick Springfield to perform at the Planting Fields in Oyster Bay on Saturday at 8 p.m. (Handout)

Rick Springfield says his new album, "Venus in Overdrive" (New Door/ Universal), due in stores Tuesday, should have been called "Son of 'Working Class Dog.'" It has the same kind of songs as his American breakthrough album from 1981, though they're from a slightly older perspective, with the concerns of slightly older folks, including death and loss.

Springfield has had many successes and failures since then, both in his acting and music career. But these days, he's back to the places when his success was greatest.

He's playing a dual role on "General Hospital" - as Dr. Noah Drake and rocker Eli Love, who is set to play the new single, "What's Victoria's Secret?" on the show.

So which songs are which?

'What's Victoria's Secret?'

The new album's first single is closest to "Jessie's Girl," from the chugging guitar opening to the catchy chorus. It's an upbeat song that's still about a frustrated relationship.

'Venus in Overdrive'

The title track is closest to "Red, Hot and Blue Love," a straightforward song that adds flecks of an unexpected genre, in this case, a bit of Police-influenced reggae.

'Time Stands Still'

Its revved-up guitar sounds a bit like "I've Done Everything for You," but instead of an angry list of complaints, the older and wiser Springfield counsels listeners to slow down and try to enjoy every moment.

WHO Rick Springfield

WHEN|WHERE 8 p.m. Saturday, Planting Fields Arboretum, Oyster Bay

INFO Tickets ($35-$120) available at Ticketmater, 631-888-9000 or ticketmaster.com

RICK'S BIGGEST HITS

1. "Jessie's Girl" from "Working Class Dog" (No. 1, 1981)

2. "Don't Talk to Strangers" from "Success Hasn't Spoiled Me Yet" (No. 2, 1982)

3. "Love Somebody" from "Hard to Hold" (No. 5, 1984)

4. "I've Done Everything for You" from "Working Class Dog" (No. 8, 1981)

5. "Affair of the Heart" from "Living in Oz" (No. 9, 1983)