Neil Young

I love this show.
The sound is a bit hissy but the performance is classic Neil Young.
The DVD has no extra video content but does contain a preview of the Archives set.

All we need now is to see it in the shops.

I'm stunned by all the negative reviews that Neil is "ripping people off" by including a DVD that doesn't have video. The clue train has left the station without you all. The "V" in "DVD" is for "versatile" (or so it was originally designated), not for "video." It was a "versatile" disc because the developers intended it to be used in many ways, and in many devices. You can use it to read and write data on your computer. Use it to play movies or video games. Or, as Neil has opted to do, give his fans a copy of this intimate evening in PCM format on the DVD.

PCM is to CD audio as mp3 is to wav, i.e. it's the uncompressed, lossless music. Neil's always been about the quality of the music. Even after the "demise" of vinyl, eclipsed by compact discs, Neil was still releasing high-quality vinyl versions of his albums for the audiophiles. The DVD is for the audiophiles who have the equipment to support it. "Chrome Dreams II" suffered similar complaints.

With that being said, the content is great. Just Neil and his guitar, talking and singing. If you enjoyed the "MTV Unplugged" album, or the "Silver and Gold" DVD, this is the same thing, acoustic versions of his songs. While the later releases feature Neil on piano, organ, and harmonica, in addition to his guitar, the bare guitar versions here allow Neil's lyrics and vocals to shine. His singing is in perfect form, clear and delicate, almost tentative, as if he's not sure about the whole solo-artist-singer-songwriter thing after breaking with Buffalo Springfield. People complain about his "rambling" song introductions. Maybe they do ramble a bit and break the continuity of the music, but they're fun to listen to. He plays a line of music that would later turn out to be "Winterlong," remarking that he "just made that up." I'll take that with a grain of salt, as well as his contention that it only took him "five minutes" to write "Mr. Soul." His songs have a quality and craftsmanship that doesn't come in five minutes.

His "Archives Vol. I" is coming out in both Blu Ray and DVD. I don't have a Blu Ray player, yet. This just might be the tipping point. I'm looking forward to a lot more vintage Neil.

Neil Young continually amazes and this recent release of archived material is spectacular. Of course long time fans have wondered about this concert for many years but the quality and the intimate nature give a rare insight into this talented man. Having had the privalege to see his most recent tour i can tell you he is better at age 63. The release of sugar mountain at canterbury house gives that rare glimpse at then and now and who he is. The only weird thing about this package is the DVD which is the cover still photo with snow moving across the screen... that's it. Unneccessary IMO. However, that is minor, this is a must have for any music fan because it spans the years and provides fresh perspective not just for neil young but also the historical/cultural aspects as well. Buy it!

Years ago, when Young released the classic CD "Harvest Moon," his lyrics in the song "Natural Beauty" lamented about hearing "a perfect echo die into an anonymous wall of digital sound." Listeners will not find that "anonymous wall" in the recent release of "Sugar Mountain-Live At Canterbury House 1968." What they'll find are the stripped down raw versions of Young's songs, where the bare essence of each offering gives a pristine look into the raw genius of his songwriting. Hence, I would categorize "Sugar Mountain-Live At Canterbury House 1968 as delightfully primitive.

In an age where music is over-produced and increasingly controlled by Big Brother, this release gives us pause to distinguish between pure art and commercial art. Art is done for oneself. Commercial art is created for a mass audience. This CD is strictly art, with Young abandoning himself to the muse of emotion. Here is a rough-hewn recording that give us a rare look at how these songs might have sounded shortly after birth and leaving the safe haven of Young's own consciousness.

Some have argued in the past that Young's lyrics are self-indulgent and lyrically cryptic. Thankfully, for many of us, Young's explorations into his own emotions connect within others on a deeper level. Lest we forget, the modern age of poetry comes from the raw and primitive "first thought is best thought" intensity of Ginsberg and company, where we are asked to trust what arises in the creative muse before revision and production.

Yes, I do wish the DVD companion was the actual performance, but I'm giving it "four stars" for art. Those lamenting about sound quality are missing the point here.

i.m a fan from the late sixties when i bought the second soloalbum from Neil Young,and since then i,m bying all his albums but i,m also a great fan from Crosby Stills & Nash since i'v seen Woodstock.
and i think that Neil young is a great performer with diverend styles of music.So i think that the dvd collection is a great gift and a lot of joy that the most Neil Young fans can be satisfied.
e de lang,Netherlands,Europe

I'm really glad that I made this purchase, this CD brings me back to the 70's, and alot of good memories. I had forgotten how much I liked Neil Youngs songs, until I got this CD. On a warm spring or summer day, with the top down on the car.........this music makes the whole day seem complete.

he sang with csny and wrote songs for himself. a wild man. music for the mind

I love this CD, I put this on as I drive to work and smile all the way and I do the same thing on my way home. It makes me forget about all the crazy people on the roads. If you are a Neil Young fan you must add this one to your collection.

Great CD in perfect condition. Excellent seller w/ super fast shipping. Thanks for a great transaction.

Why waste 2-3 spots in the track listing with the terrible " COWGIRL IN THE SAND". Important songs such as " SO TELL ME WHY and SUGAR MOUNTAIN", would have filled this space perfect. Who wants BACK TO BACK "long", strung out songs on a CD. They are both terrible and the first 2 on the album. Also, "HEYHEY -MY MY" song.... just plain sounds old,bad and really stupid. THAT AINT NO HIT. I don't care what anybody say's.......as well as COWGIRL IN THE SAND. Plain terrible. What a waste of space for some good shorter, better played , wrote songs.

3 1/2

There is no doubt at least some of this album achieves its classic rock status easily, but only the handful of songs, most of those already hits, stand out as truly masterful against lesser composed fare.

This is one of Neil Young's best -- if NOT the best. If the
listener can 'get past' his whiny voice, it's a winner!!!

A while back, Warner Brothers Japan re-released 12 Neil Young titles. The surprise was that remastered content appeared for the first time on most of them.

The titles & WB-Japan catalog numbers are:

Neil Young WPCR-75086
Everybody Knows This Is Nowhere WPCR-75087
After The Gold Rush WPCR-75088
Harvest WPCR-75089
On The Beach WPCR-75090
Tonight's The Night WPCR-75091
Zuma WPCR-75092
Long May You Run WPCR-75093
American Stars n' Bars WPCR-75094
Comes A Time WPCR-75095
Rust Never Sleeps WPCR-75096
Live Rust WPCR-75097

I picked up most of these, A/B'd them, and found them to be superior to the domestics. However, having purchased the domestic 2002 remasters of "Beach" and "Stars n Bars", I declined the Japan versions of those two titles.

Unfortunately, while the Japan version is remastered, Live Rust is not restored to the original LP's running form, and remains still the bastardized version.

If you own the U.S. versions, and you're a NY fan, I would seriously consider replacing them with these.

...I'm a lot like you. I need someone to love me the whole day through."

Folk/Rock at it's best. Simple acoustic chords, haunting lyrics, and poignant stories. Arguably, this is Neil's masterpiece album. The Needle and the Damage Done, is a wonderful lament for friends lost to drugs. Old Man is an ode to the caretaker on a ranch that Neil bought some time ago. Heart of Gold is just that...Solid! As a lad I spun this LP every night when I hit the sack. I had a Hohner harmonica and played along. This disc belongs in the time capsule of my life. Enjoy it for years to come.

"Dream up, dream up,
let me fill your cup
With the promise of a man."

This was one on the first albums I ever bought, and it remains a favorite. Harvest is Neil Young's signature album with his distinctive folk-esque acoustic guitar and harmonica, and his deeply personal lyrics. Backed by "The Stray Gators," a group of country session musicians including Ben Keith on pedal steel guitar, Kenny Buttrey on drums, Tim Drummond on bass, and Jack Nitzsche on piano and slide guitar, along with backing vocals by James Taylor, David Crosby, Graham Nash, Linda Ronstadt, and Stephen Stills, Neil made history with Harvest. The album resulted in three hit singles, "Heart of Gold," "Old Man," and "The Needle and the Damage Done." The complete album setlist includes:

1. Out On The Weekend (Album Version) (4:35)
2. Harvest (Album Version) (3:11)
3. A Man Needs A Maid (Album Version) (4:05)
4. Heart Of Gold (Album Version) (3:07)
5. Are You Ready For The Country (Album Version) (3:23)
6. Old Man (Album Version) (3:22)
7. There's A World (Album Version) (2:59)
8. Alabama (Album Version) (4:02)
9. The Needle And The Damage Done (Album Version) (2:10)
10. Words (Between The Lines Of Age) (Album Version) (6:40)

G. Merritt

Well, I may be wrong, but to me the DVD part of the release looks like a re-act of the show.
The main sign is of course the numerous views of the tape recorder, as if to say "this is where the real action is". Then if you look closely to the shots of Neil Young, you'll notice here and there some out-of-sync words, guitar chords or piano playing, and throughout the show, this strange way of standing away from the mike while hardly opening the mouth. To me, Neil Young is reluctant to mimic the concert after the fact in an empty Massey Hall, in front of a camera, with a pace dictated by a tape recorder.

The disc is outstanding, marvelous live album, the sound is wonderful, the concert is an intimate setting. The whole disc puts a smile on my face while I listen. A must have in any collection.

The music is great. Video is classic but lacks the quality of more recent performances. I really enjoyed it.

It is hard to find a truly clear and crisp live album from the early 1970s, but Live at Massey Hall is the best older live album I have ever heard period. Neil Young sounds so young, full of soul, and all of the tracks are phenominal. Many of these tracks have not been released at the time this was recorded (pre-Harvest), with a few tracks differing from what was released later on album (i.e. A Man Needs a Maid), and a unreleased track (i.e. Bad Fog of Loneliness). I am a huge Neil Young fan and this quickly became a favorite. If you love his solo acoustic side, you will love this live cd. Buy it, you will not be sorry!

Hauntingly Brilliant. Solo, alone, with just his instruments and during a rough period for all.

Neil's genious truly shines. This is the bench mark that classics are compared to.

The DVD is in and out, looks like someone with a 16mm. The banter between songs is priceless. And the film show's it's age. I'm just glad someone was around to capture such a gem.

A must for any collection.

I've been a Neil Young fan since the day I first heard one of his songs, and this is one of the best records he's ever done. But I'm a fan of just about everything he's put out so...

Anyway in my opinion this is one of his very best

This album always puts me in a state of hypnosis in which I become absorbed by it, unaware of anything else around me. I can't listen to it while I'm driving, It's just that good. Same goes for "On the Beach".

This is still one of my favorite albums of all time, and I just discovered how good it sounds in headphones (great stereo spread), however I am listening to Oh lonesome me, and it is in mono-I think I remember that from when I had it on LP. Anyway, I don't think old Neil did any better than here. The songs are all great, and his voice is in perfect shape!

So, what happened here I think, was that Neil broke his leg or something, and had a release deadline to keep, and he couldn't pick up the electric guitar that he had weilded so flawlessly on his previous release. SO, instead he decided to hit the piano, and focus more on his softer side, initiating a creative flood for softer material, and hence, coming up with a songwriters treasure trove of an album. AFTER THE GOLD RUSH seems to be the favorite for anyone in the singer/songwriter circuit, and well it should be. The range of style on this thing is wide, but subtle. His most covered material can be found here, ONLY LOVE CAN BREAK YOUR HEART, BIRDS, DONT LET IT BRING YOU DOWN. Sure he hits the threshold of dismal here (even for Neil) with songs like the title track and OH LONESOME ME; but he also lets loose once or twice with songs like WHEN YOU DANCE and the silly but cool CRIPPLE CREEK FERRY. Personally I always dug TILL THE MORNING COMES. Its like a minute and a half long, but it says all it needs to say. "I'm gonna give you till the morning comes, till the morning comes. I'm only waiting till the morning comes." And that about says it. Neil somehow manages to shred one through the amplifier with the intense SOUTHERN MAN, and a pair of others stand well also. To make this story short; every song here is an example of quality, and I doubt there is a singer/songwriter around that would disagree. SO, it doesn't rock out like, say, one of the Crazy Horse albums; but it definately deserves repeated listens, and has even caused me to flip the volume up more than once. Classic.

A while back, Warner Brothers Japan re-released 12 Neil Young titles. The surprise was that remastered content appeared for the first time on most of them.

The titles & WB-Japan catalog numbers are:

Neil Young WPCR-75086
Everybody Knows This Is Nowhere WPCR-75087
After The Gold Rush WPCR-75088
Harvest WPCR-75089
On The Beach WPCR-75090
Tonight's The Night WPCR-75091
Zuma WPCR-75092
Long May You Run WPCR-75093
American Stars n' Bars WPCR-75094
Comes A Time WPCR-75095
Rust Never Sleeps WPCR-75096
Live Rust WPCR-75097

I picked up most of these, A/B'd them, and found them to be superior to the domestics. However, having purchased the domestic 2002 remasters of "Beach" and "Stars n Bars", I declined the Japan versions of those two titles.

Unfortunately, while the Japan version is remastered, Live Rust is not restored to the original LP's running form, and remains still the bastardized version.

If you own the U.S. versions, and you're a NY fan, I would seriously consider replacing them with these.

This is a wonderful album. I find myself singing the songs in my head long after listening. His writing has matured along with us and the song topics just fit our generation. MUsic is beautiful and haunting.

The breezy, mellow feel to the opening song on this CD, "The Painter," perfectly sets the pace and tone of "Prairie Wind." "The Painter" quietly offers up laid-back but nostalgic lyrics sung in a wary, classic Neil Young voice; a beautiful slide guitar intersperses the gentle guitar plucking; light drums and a dependable bass lend weight to the composition. Undoubtedly, "Prairie Wind" was an ideal title for this album. The following tune, "No Wonder," contains a darker sound, but the song's lyrics uphold the naturistic feel of the CD, and convey a sense of one's own mortality.

The down-home instrumentation and vocals make it seem as if these tunes could be played on the rustic porch of a windswept prairie in the middle of nowhere. "Falling Off the Face of the Earth" is an example of Young's amazing ability to mesmerize simplistically, without bells and whistles. Whether he's rocking out electrically with his Crazy Horse band or playing lighter fare, as on "Falling," many of Young's songs have a way of sneakily sucking you in in a catchy, repetitive manner that's lulling, both vocally and musically. On some of Young's tunes, seven minutes have passed by before you realize it; but somehow, the composition doesn't drag.

Not all of "Prairie Wind" is soothing Western ballads played on the Badlands. "Far From Home" has a good-time, old-fashioned vibe that's endearing like an enjoyable family reunion; the title track dares to flex its acoustic muscle with hardened but longing lyrics and great backing vocals by a slew of talented female musicians; "He Was the King," a tune about Elvis in all his incarnations, is pure rock and roll fun, while "When God Made Me" is a piano-soaked gospel relic that questions just as much as it faithfully believes.

As poignant as all these songs are, perhaps none are more so than the sublime "This Old Guitar," sung and played plaintively by Young, but somehow stirring up emotion by the truckload. The song is indicative of this entire heartwarming album, which thrives on simplicity, feeling and easy hooks.

First off, I'm no Neil Young expert. I'm simply someone who was introduced to Neil Young's music by a friend, some 15 years ago. I don't own every Neil album- not even close. But Young fascinates me, and when he releases the kind of album that I think I'll like, I buy it.
This doesn't strike me as the 3rd piece to a Harvest trilogy. Neither did "Silver and Gold". But this album comes closer to ranking with the 2 'Harvest' classics. There's a lot more depth and added instrumentation to this album.
Some of the best: "No Wonder" is a powerful 911 song that even quotes Chris Rock, of all people. "Falling Off the Face of the Earth" is classic Neil, with brooding verses, and high intricate melodies that only Neil could reach in the chorus. "This Old Guitar" is the best track on the album, and would've fit right in on "Harvest Moon". It's in the "Hank to Hendrix" vein, and also features Emmylou Harris on harmony (oh, sweet Emmy). The somber "When God Made Me" closes the album and includes a gospel chorus.
Two tracks, the title cut and "Far From Home", kind of threw me for a loop because they included horns. At first, it seemed blasphemous. Neil Young? With horns? But after a few listens, you realize it works, particularly on the bluesy, bouncy, title track.
The only thing I really don't like about the album is "He Was the King". Do we really need to hear another song about Elvis? It's carefree, fun, and actually not that bad. It's just a personal pet peeve. He wanted to throw something on here that wasn't so serious, but it just doesn't feel like it belongs.
All in all, a solid album that I won't hesitate to play. Especially in October and November, when I get in my 'Neil' moods.:)

I too recently saw Neil Young and his friends perform on Shotime at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville. I am a seasoned Neil Young fan and I am excited to order his Prairie Wind concert DVD for my 30-year-old son, who has music ambitions of his own. Neil Young has so much to teach this generation and I am comfortable with the way he models for our young music aspirants.

Strong , pretty melodies. Even after classic after classic , Neil still can write a beautiful melody. Lyrically intelligent and musically brilliant.Another keeper from Mr. Eclectic.

You know it's been almost 40 years since this LP came out.
Hasn't lost anything in all this time!
I remember being 18 years old that Summer of 1969.
Crosby Stills & Nash too.
Neils guitar is fast, frenetic, & raw.
His lyrics even then were moving.
This is I believe, 1 of the best First recordings
of any artist of that time.
Dig your head!

A while back, Warner Brothers Japan re-released 12 Neil Young titles. The surprise was that remastered content appeared for the first time on most of them.

The titles & WB-Japan catalog numbers are:

Neil Young WPCR-75086
Everybody Knows This Is Nowhere WPCR-75087
After The Gold Rush WPCR-75088
Harvest WPCR-75089
On The Beach WPCR-75090
Tonight's The Night WPCR-75091
Zuma WPCR-75092
Long May You Run WPCR-75093
American Stars n' Bars WPCR-75094
Comes A Time WPCR-75095
Rust Never Sleeps WPCR-75096
Live Rust WPCR-75097

I picked up most of these, A/B'd them, and found them to be superior to the domestics. However, having purchased the domestic 2002 remasters of "Beach" and "Stars n Bars", I declined the Japan versions of those two titles.

Unfortunately, while the Japan version is remastered, Live Rust is not restored to the original LP's running form, and remains still the bastardized version.

If you own the U.S. versions, and you're a NY fan, I would seriously consider replacing them with these.

I have mentioned elsewhere in this space that, on any given night in the 1960's, Jim Morrison and the Doors were pound for pound the best rock and roll band in the world. I would stand by that remark as a general proposition but only add that for quality over the long haul the Rolling Stones would edge the Doors out. However, somewhere, somehow into this mix one must place Neil Young's work with Crazy Horse in the early 1970's. Young himself has gone through many transformations including grunge bandleader and lately sort of a soulful folk-rock elder statesman. But back in the day he could rock with the best of them-first with Buffalo Springfield and then the various combinations with Crosby, Stills and Nash.

So what makes Everybody Knows This is Nowhere special? Easy. Young on lead vocals and guitar and the band play the kind of acid-inspired rock that has withstood the test of time. That is not true for most of the work of that era. Some Jefferson Airplane, some The Who yes but most of it is rather grating on the ear these days. And the aging of this reviewer is only one small factor for that believe. Neil and the guys knew how to work the riffs as they related to any particular song. Take, for example, Down By The River, it is simply powerful without being overdone. Or the title song mentioned above, for that matter.

I think that Young, as experienced musician by that point in his career, had something in the back of his mind about doing music for the long haul. Look, electricity will take virtually anything that an instrument has to offer. The history of rock and roll proves that. If you want to get a slice of what the best use of that electricity was like when men and women played rock and roll for keeps listen here.

At the time this came out it was so unique and in a class by itself. With Whitten on rythmn, the jams are devastating. No, not to rival Clapton for virtousity or Jeff Beck for sound effects, but there is something in the purity of this music that can't be duplicated. Just simply music for the working man at a very high level. You can feel the earth in this music, a closeness to what is real about communication through music is in every song on this one. I can't say enough about the texture of this work of art. I learned to play every song on this album when it came out. My buddies and I jammed to Down by the River for hours. I am so prejudiced about this CD, that it isn't even fair for me to say more. If you don't have it, buy it. If you don't get it when you buy it then you just don't understand.

Everybody Knows This Is Nowhere (1969) literally defined what would ultimately become the distinctive Neil Young And Crazy Horse sound that has characterized the electric guitar rock portion of Neil Young's great career in rock n' roll.

The three epic rock classics here are Down By The River, Cowgirl In The Sand, and Cinnamon Girl. Each one contains some of Neil Young's career best electric guitar work by way of extended guitar solos and creative riffs, and some of his most memorable and sharp lyrical genius. Of the darkly passionate Down By The River, Neil told Robert Greenfield in 1970, "No, there's no real murder in it. It's about blowing your thing with a chick. It's a plea, a desperate cry".

You take my hand, I'll take your hand
Together we may get away
This much madness is too much sorrow
It's impossible to make it today

Cowgirl In The Sand is even longer and more abstract, with guitar fireworks that clearly set the tone for the classic Neil Young & Crazy Horse style. Pure emotion amplified through electric guitars is what this one's all about. The lyrics describe a relationship with an idealized woman of Young's dreams.

Hello cowgirl in the sand
Is this place at your command
Can I stay here for a while
Can I see your sweet, sweet smile

Cinnamon Girl is a total rock classic, and one of Neil Young's most popular songs ever. With rocking guitar riffs, poetic lyrics of longing, and a great melody, it's rock n' roll in a league of it's own. Those three stand out, but the other songs on the album are great, too. The country-rock wistfulness of (When You're On) The Losing End is another winner here, and I like the haunting Round And Round (It Won't Be Long), too. The twangy escapism of the title track is classic Neil Young material, and works well within the uncertain and tormented mood of the album.

Everybody Knows This Is Nowhere was a breakthrough album for Neil Young, an album where he found his true voice and sound. It's one of his best albums, one that has withstood the test of time, and it still remains a classic today. Cool album cover, too, characteristically reticent and rebellious Neil Young.

If you like acoustic young, this is the disc to get. Sound quality is impressive especially considering it was recorded in 71. To have been there as he introduced some of these songs would have been an amazing experience.

For those of us who never saw Buffalo Springfield or early Neil Young, this cd is welcome.
I have been a long time fan and love to hear Neil Young in what I call his acoustic mode.
This is also the period of Neil Youngs' career I enjoy the most.
This is a record of Neil that has long been lost in a vault or on some shelf somewhere. Among my favorites on this album are Dont let it bring you down, Helpless, Ohio and an excellent acoustic version of Down by the River. I am glad Neil is releasing old concerts from the 70's for us.
I hope this is just the start of a whole series...............

Decades before the intemperate bitterness, coarse cynicism, vitriolic politics and smug elitism that would infect his stage and interviews and music in his later years, Neil Young was an impressive, open, and vulnerable singer-songwriter who simply sought to connect with and entertain his audience.

This 1971 live solo performance at Massey Hall -- famous in jazz history for its legendary live jazz sets by the likes of Charlie Parker and John Coltrane -- serves him well. It is an extraordinarily well-produced event that stands up through the years.

His between-song patter here seems to compliment the lightweight, personal poetry of his songs. The slight exception would, of course, be "The Needle and The Damage Done", which is more famous for having gravitas than it actually has.

I think the recording could have used more acoustic weight, perhaps in the form of an acoustic bass or a second guitar or an accompanying vocal.

All in all, a fine performance. But certainly not much, if any, improvement over the later studio recordings with the exquisite production values they contained. I'm sure plenty of Neil Young devotees will still convince themselves anyway that this is a long-forgotten buried treasure of great historical significance.

Pleasant, but definitely non-essential.

This is a very good live, early Neil Young. I really like his live music and this is a good collection.

Neil Young-Live At Messey Hall 1971 *****

Live at Messey Hall, 1971, is one of the most intimate and enchanting performances from Neil Young on tape. Recorded when many concidered him to be at the height of his power, the time period of Everybody Knows This Is Nowhere, After the Gold Rush , and Harvest. Well this is the album that was supposed to be released between the last two, according to Young anyway. "David Brigg, my producer wanted to release it but I wanted Harvest out, and listening to it all these years later I can see why."

Bridging the gap between the two albums. Showing many of the songs from Harvest in their infant stages, and some in the final forms they would appear on the album. But it is this stripped down version that really brings the magic to some other wise dull tracks. 'There's A World' is breathtaking here. 'A Man Needs A Maid' is also given new life, and it is actually much, much better than the album version.

From After the Gold Rush we also hear the classic 'Don't Let It Bring You Down.' Also included here is a killer version of 'Helpless' and the CSNY classic 'Ohio' which is performed chillingly. 'See The Sky About To Rain' wouldn't see the light of day for a few more albums but this infant variation of the number is maybe more impressive than the cut from On the Beach.

Neil Young's solo acoustic sets have always been impressive, but there is something truly special about this performance, and this collection. Being number three in the series of live albums Young is releasing this 1971 performance in Toronto, Canada at the Messey Hall is nothing short of stunning.

More than anyone in music, Neil Young can weave melodies and lyrical images into unforgettable works of art, and no single creation exemplifies this better than 1992's "Harvest Moon." Personally, I know little of this man's life (beyond the decades of incredible musical gifts he has given us, of course!), but Harvest Moon has, for me, the unmistakable sound of a record that "had" to be made, in the same way someone might be inspired to build a boat, or compelled to scale a mountain. Time and time again this gorgeous and profoundly personal-sounding record will speak directly to the hearts of Lovers, and convert skeptics into believers of Love's unshakable power to heal. From track 1, in which the singer returns time and again to the diner, and orders just to watch the beautiful waitress from the small town float across the floor, to "Such a Woman," in which he sings, "No one else can kill me like you do; no one else can fill me like you do; and no one else can feel our pain." "Natural Beauty" closes the record. It's a live track that stands as a powerful ambassador to the preservation of Beauty and Love, as if warning us that they are species which are becoming seriously endangered. This is one of Neil Young's most contemplative and quiet releases. But it is a quiet that only makes you listen more closely, and feel more deeply. The greatest harmony singer in the history of popular music was the late Nicolette Larson, and she's present on every track, ready and able to take these soaring melodies to the even greater heights they deserve. If you have been, are, or dream of being in love, here's your soundtrack.

After experiencing a huge commercial comeback at the start of the decade with the "Ragged Glory" album, Young did another 360 and released what is essentially a sequel to his most popular album of the 70's "Harvest". Like the original, "Harvest Moon" is the folk, country Neil Young with him and his band using mostly acoustic instruments and arrangements. In fact the backing musicians and singers on "Harvest Moon" are many of the same that he used on the original "Harvest" album including Ken Buttery, Linda Ronstadt, James Taylor, Nicolette Larson, and others. The album is very subdued and mellow. There are no "godfather of grunge" tunes to be found on this one. Highlights include "Unknown Legend", "From Hank To Hendrix", "Harvest Moon", "War Of Man", and the 10 minute "Natural Beauty". The amount that you like this album will probably depend on which of Neil's many incarnations you prefer. I tend to like the more rocking Young, but I can also enjoy his acoustic side which this album serves up like an old comfortable shoe. A few of these tunes have been around for a while and have appeared on other albums ("Decade" and "Unplugged"). The album is not a classic, but good solid acoustic Neil Young.

Simply put, I never tire of listening to this album. Neil Young has many great albums in many different styles but this one has such a fine mixture of simple sounds, engaging rhythms and moving words that it stands out as one of his best. Classic Neil Young sound and writing. If you're like me you'll find yourself singing along on at least one song every time you listen.

Hi people! I'm back for another review! .......Well, don't all jump up with joy at the same time! :( Anyway, I forgot to tell you a story about this last Christmas. Sometimes your Metamorpho, in his dreamstate, has his molecular energy substance transported to all sorts of places. Anyway, Christmas day I found myself in a Lionel train caboose. I foolishly thought I was under the tree. But, no. I was in one of Neil Young's massive, trailer-long train set ups. As you all know, he is a great hobbyist for this sort of thing. The scenery and ice-capped mountains were very life-like. Why, he even had a harvest moon hanging in the sky! I almost totally enjoyed all this except for that stupid mechanical coyote that wouldn't leave me alone. Yes, yes.... I enjoy hobbies too. But I can do without the fang bites, thank-you. ;)
Well, what about "Harvest Moon", you might ask? Well, with Neil you never really know what new direction he will go in. But, with this album I think it's safe to say that it is mainly an acoustic adventure. Everything here is understated and deceptively elementary. But, I just don't know. With Neil you think the lyrics are very simple and then, after a few listenings, you begin to realize the depth in his songs. Very considerable artist.
Now, none of these songs will grate your nerves. They rely on acoustic guitar, slide guitar, banjo, harmonica, piano, moderate bass and drums. You will not be hit over the head with any of these tunes. You can actually see yourself sitting on the front porch somewhere in the American frontier as Neil drops by, with friends, for a musical evening. I think it's that intimate.
And what is contained herein you may ask? How bold. To me, it conveys how we envision ourselves and how we envision our lives to be. He writes of daydreams, aspirations, longings and regrets - and alot about love. That is what is so rich about his music, especially here. He gives you backdrops but it's up to you to provide your own answers.
In "Unknown Legend" he relates the tale of a woman who was really something in her youth but, reality and life set in. Still, in that perfect memory, she still rides that Harley Davidson and is an unknown legend in Neil's mind. Who are we really? What other's tell us? What we believe to be so? Or what dreams tell us? I warned you that Neil would test your brain cells, and mine are screaming now! ;)
"From Hank to Hendrix" is a sad song relating a divorce to come and asking if there isn't a way to avoid it. I especially like the way he bookmarks change in relating the growth the couple has gone through. From Hank to Hendrix, from Marilyn to Madonna - they survived so much together through those times. Neil just has that succinct way of putting it. I, also like the line "the same thing that makes you live, can kill you in the end". He knows just how to sneak those gem lyrics in people.
Some other standouts would be "Harvest Moon" that exudes easy going celebration that people do stay in love. "One of These Days" finds Neil writing a letter to friends who have become disconnected over time. I especially like the double meaning of "it won't be long". Does he mean the day, the letter, or both? With Neil, alot of the time it's left up to your own interpretation.
I almost forgot that in "You and Me" Neil includes a melody almost identical to "Old Man" on his "Harvest" album. A subtle, or not so subtle way in which these two are connected.
My only objection to this album is that although most of the tunes are excellent and laid back, there are times when it is too laid back. It could have used a bounce every now and again, but that is just me. Nothing at this point could detract from his artistry. This is a fine collection of songs and shows Neil maturing in all the right areas.
In closing, you are probably wondering how I made it out of that caboose and trailer? Well people, never underestimate the power of a crafty Seer. No. When Neil came in to feed the coyote, I made my attempt at a getaway. Unfortunately, he caught me. Fortunately, I was able to use my superb Seer social skills and abject hand-wringing to my advantage. He let me go. But, I'll always wonder if it was my great method acting or my promise of a good review that did the trick. With Neil Young, you never know. ;) 4 1/2 stars. A solid, superb effort.

railing as usual - your precocious. Metamorpho

There's something about this album that really made me fall in love with Neil Young again. Who would have guessed that such a masterpiece of his would come in 1992? This is an absolute timeless piece of music that takes you back in time because of it's nostalgic sound that Young mastered. Vocally, this album is spot on with the smooth and echoed harmonies and musically the somber key signatures, reverb, and steel guitar come together in perfect symphony.

This album is special and you can clearly hear that from the very beginning. If you're even considering this album I have this one piece of advice: Get your hands on Harvest Moon right away.

"Decade" is a great compilation album, put together by Neil Young of his early career in 1977. It was originally a three album compilation, but this release is on two CDs. The retrospective is mostly chronological; though there are some exceptions, and it does cover all aspects of his career, whether it is with Buffalo Springfield, Solo, with Crazy Horse, or as part of Crosby Stills Nash & Young.

Six of the first seven tracks are from his days in Buffalo Springfield, including songs like "Down to the Wire" also with Dr. John, a live version in the studio of "Mr. Soul", and "Broken Arrow". The other track is "Sugar Mountain" a live track from a solo performance in Ann Arbor days before he released his first solo album. It also includes "The Loner" and "The Old Laughing Lady" from that album. It then moves into my personal favorite period, which is his first album with Crazy Horse and his second solo album "After the Gold Rush". This includes wonderful tracks such as "Cinnamon Girl", "Down by the River", "Cowgirl in the Sand", "I Believe in You", "After the Gold Rush", and "Southern Man", and the first CD closes with the first of two tracks from the "Déjà" Vu album from Crosby Stills, Nash & Young, "Helpless".

The second CD picks up where the first CD leaves off (and where the 4th side of the three album set began) with "Ohio" from Crosby Stills, Nash & Young's "Déjà Vu" album. This is followed by "Soldier" from the soundtrack "Journey through the Past", which is followed by five tracks from Neil's "Harvest" album, including classics like "Old Man", the somewhat unusual selection "A Man Needs A Maid", "Harvest", and "Heart of Gold", and a live recording of "The Needle and the Damage Done", though Neil also mixes in "The Star of Bethlehem" from the "American Stars `N Bars" album before the last one. Next up is two tracks from "Tonight's the Night" starting with the title track, and then including "Tired Eyes". Next are a couple of tracks from the "On the Beach" album, including "Walk On" and "For the Turnstiles".

Neil then makes an unusual choice to include some previously unreleased tracks. These days it has become a common practice, but back then it was unusual. These tracks include "Winterlong" and "Deep Forbidden Lake", and later in the disk "Love is a Rose". He also includes a version of "Like a Hurricane" from a rehearsal sessions for his Northern California Coastal Bar Tour in 1975. The other tracks which finish up this album include "Cortez the Killer" from the "Zuma" album, and two more previously unreleased tracks, the first being "Campaigner" from The Stills-Young Band, and finishing with a version of "Long May You Run" performed by Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young.

Not every track on this album is great, at least not to me, but the collection as a whole is outstanding, because it is more than a collection of hits, and instead is made up of interesting and thoughtful choices by Neil Young. Some of the unreleased tracks are among the best tracks on the album, though I am not particularly fond of "Campaigner", and that makes this collection a treat for fans which already have his other albums. If you like Neil Young, this is a great collection to pick up.

I bought this 2 CD-set for Neil's Greatest Hits and some that maybe should have been. Not at all disappointed with "Helpless, "Heart Of Gold", "Ohio", and the rest of the more familiar ones. As an interested but not deep fan, the Buffalo Springfield stuff and several other selections might take some time.
My initial take on my first NY collection is that he didn't go into the studio to "write a hit". He had the words and music which wee going to connect with a very large number of fans, anyway.
Young is a classic folk-rock stylist, instantly recognizable.
Some of the more melancholy. drug-life reflections have little resonance today - drugs took away lives? It was terrible judgment (and perhaps powers-that-be who looked away because they didn't want to stifle...creativity) that claimed so many young lives.
I don't care for the handwritten notes on all the tracks. That's for a preface or exit statement. I'd like to know Month and Year of recording and have the session personnel in bold print.
Much has been written on the poor sound quality. My aging sound sytem might not lend to objective criticism. The acoustics come through without a hitch.

I really enjoy this CD. It has great cuts from Neil with CSNY, Neil as a solo and duet artist, and Neil with Crazy Horse, so it's excellent in that respect. I've been a casual Neil young fan and I have a whole new respect for him after buying this album. I think it's a great purchase and I would highly recommend it.

How can an album as important as this one be allowed to remain in it's current state of "not yet remastered" disrepair? Forcrisake, every other chunk of trite music out there from the 70's and 80's has been remastered. Either Neil is going to launch the mother of all box sets, or someone has just gotten very lazy.

The music would be a fine introduction to early Neil Young, but the fidelity sounds like an old car radio playing through your friend Larry's coat. Every track that is available elsewhere sounds better elsewhere. (Compare "Like a Hurricane" on this album to the one on "American Stars n Bars," which is HDCD in standard release.) If you simply must have some of the oddball cuts it doesn't look like you have much choice. Actually, the smart thing to do would be to wait until Young's back catalogue gets the audiophile treatment.