You see, I knew it was a bad idea even to think about a Top 50 list (see yesterday's entry). Now I'm wondering whether this album should be included. But I think maybe Neil Young would only get a couple of his into the Top 50 — don't ask me which couple just now — though he might get ten in the Top 150.
I first heard this at an exclusive playback at the Neil Young Appreciation Society convention at Birmingham's Que Club on 23 July 1994, before it was officially released. I say I heard it there, but after the first track the level of chatter made it pretty much inaudible. I think someone nicked the tape at the end as well, which is a double indictment on the fans.
The other distinct memory I have of listening to it was while driving down to Sidlesham with M for Hilary and Tim's wedding on 16 September 2004.
What else can I say? Sometimes Neil pulls one out of the bag after years of curate's egg albums, and this is just such a one. Lots was written about it making particular reference to the title track and its connection with Kurt Cobain's death, but that connection seems almost incidental to me and the title track is far being one of the best. Prime of Life, Driveby and A Dream That Can Last are my favourites. Only Change Your Mind features the trademark Crazy Horse sound. Elsewhere Crazy Horse show more versatility than on any other album.
MusicBrainz entry for this album |
Comments