The gig marked the first time since November that the keyboardist and original E Street member has publicly performed with the band, The Star-Ledger newspaper in Newaark, N.J., reported Friday.

"We've got a special treat tonight," Springsteen reportedly said about half-way through Thursday night's show.

Federici then appeared, hugged his temporary replacement Charles Giordano and took his usual place behind his organ, the report said.

He played on "The Promised Land," "Spirit In the Night" and "Fourth of July, Asbury Park (Sandy,)" after which Giordano took over for the next five songs.

Federici returned for the encores of "Backstreets," "Kitty's Back," "Born To Run," "Dancing in the Dark" and "American Land."