NEIL Young’s six-show, three-night, one-man stint at the Cellar Door, the legendary Washington DC venue, was recorded in the winter of 1970 and is an illuminating snapshot of Young’s career in transition.
After The Goldrush, which had established Young as the finest singer-songwriter of the post-Dylan generation, had been released that August and the core of a mesmerising set showcases this seminal album, with memorable versions of Birds, Tell Me Why, Only Love Can Break Your Heart and the hauntingly beautiful title track.
But the restless Young was also looking forward and unveiled new tracks for the lucky Cellar Door audience, including Old Man, a highlight of Harvest, and See The Sky About To Rain, the gentlest song on the coruscating On The Beach. The introspective Bad Fog Of Loneliness, a rarity, makes a welcome appearance, too.
Playing solo, with just his guitar and piano as backing, these songs explore Young’s journey to superstardom – with a whole load of heartache on the way.
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