I basically agree. Not a popular opinion around here. I think his first 4 albums are a remarkabe story arc.
Asbury Park: Young kid in the city, getting in trouble but just having a good time.
E Street Shuffle: Young man trying to grow up in the city
Born to Run: Young man scared that he’s down to his last chance and the city just might swallow him.
Darkness on the Edge of Town: Man who blew it and lost any chance he ever had.
To me, with The River, Springsteen segued into a rather ugly, “Wheeeeeeeeeee! I’m a superbig rockstar!” vibe and I stopped paying any attention to him.
“Stolen Car” from The River album is one of his five best songs, in my humble opinion. It probably belongs on another album.