The Judgement Not To Pre-Judge "Americana"

The Comment of the Moment is from Friday Afternoon Insanity: Yes, This Is Still A Neil Young Blog and responds to some of the pre-judicial early reviews that have been floated in anticipation of the upcoming album "Americana" by Neil Young & Crazy Horse.

What seems to be most bizarrely troublesome about all the chatter is how much of it is totally baseless since the writers openly admit they haven't heard the songs they're criticizing.

But hey?! It's the Internets. Everyone has an opinion. Including the inestimable D. I. Kertis who said...

It's good to see Neil back with the Horse finally.

I'm not one of those fans who's in love with Crazy Horse to the exclusion of all else, but it's inspiring good vibes nonetheless. I was a bit surprised when I first found Neil's new album was going to be folk/protest songs, and I'm not surprised it's gotten some pre-release flak (haven't most of Neil's albums lately?), but as for me, I'm trying to keep an opened mind to it. A new NY album will certainly be a nice way to begin the summer, and while I never specifically wished for Neil to play "Oh! Susannah" or "Clementine", I'm rather intrigued to hear what the Neil Young/Crazy Horse take on these songs will be. (Remember, Neil's Crazy Horse albums don't always sound just like the Crazy Horse we all know and love--I'm thinking especially of "Sleeps with Angels" here.)

Although it makes me even more curious about this album's "sound", I certainly have no qualms with the children's choir. Indeed I find the concept somewhat endearing.

Chrome Dreams II's "The Way", which featured a kids' choir, keeps coming back to me in a good way (one of my favorite of the relatively recent albums, too), and it's really cool that Neil, as an older rock musician, seems to be interested in reaching out to children. I also look at it, perhaps even more importantly, from the perspective that this is, after all, *folk* music: songs (if you'll pardon the reference) by the people, of the people, for the people.

Most of them are probably in public domain at this stage, many are universally recognized at least within the US, and, being in essence commonly owned, are intended to be singable by anyone anywhere, including children. So perhaps the inclusion of the children's choir on this album serves to highlight the universal nature of the kind of music Neil is essaying here. That's just a thought before actually hearing how 'Americana' plays out, but we shall see what we shall hear in not too long.

What I absolutely do not understand, though, is the talk of imperialism (and even, in one post I saw somewhere, fascism) over the inclusion in the track list of 'God Save the Queen'. I don't want to get too deeply into things here, but suffice to say that, as well know, 'God Save the Queen' is the British national anthem (also the tune for the American patriotic song 'My Country 'Tis of Thee, by the way), and if anyone seriously believes that 21st century England is oppressively imperialistic or "fascist" simply for continuing to have a reigning monarch, that just strikes me as gross ignorance of the world beyond one's own borders.

I'm not saying any country is completely idyllic or perfect; I think England has its issues just like anywhere else. But just because a nation does not have all of its leaders elected like in the US, that doesn't mean the people are being oppressed or that the ideology is necessarily wrongheaded. So I do strongly take exception to remarks of that nature.

Other than that, I'd prefer for the most part to sit back and give 'Americana' a fair chance. There's no use in a knee-jerk reaction, and nothing positive to be gained by rushing to judgement here. I'm sure 'Americana' will be as controversial as anyone Neil Young release, but I think it should at least be allowed a chance to reveal itself before we get too far into the complaints and nitpicking.

P.S. I saw my "comment of the moment" spot; thanks . I probably don't come here that often because writing comments of the moment takes so much time and energy, but it's nice to feel wanted. I'm sure I'll have more to say on 'Americana', the Linc-Volt, and other matters in the coming weeks and months.

Thanks -- as always -- for your time and energy D.I.!!! Your opinions (as well as dissenters) are wanted and welcomed. It's all one comment, afterall.



Set for a June 5th release, you can now pre-Order "Americana" on Amazon.com (Thanks! You'll be helping to support us.)

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Friday Afternoon Insanity: Yes, This Is Still A Neil Young Blog

As we promised yesterday, here's some Friday afternoon craziness. And, yes, this is still a Neil Young blog.

Yesterday, we posted a cult classic YouTube video of "Venus" by Shocking Blue which is based off of the Americana tune "Oh! Susannah" and its riffs. "Venus" was written by Robbie van Leeuwen and originally recorded by Shocking Blue for their 1969 album, "At Home".

As we mentioned recently, with all of the anticipation for the upcoming album Americana by Neil Young & Crazy Horse, there's been a lot of focus on the song "Oh! Susannah".

And just as we were reminded about The Byrds version of "Oh Susanna" and James Taylor with Johnny Cash's version of "Oh Susanna" along comes another "Oh Susanna" version.

Here's the video of Bananarama's "Venus" from 1986 album, "True Confessions".

Ahhh, those '80's....

Check it out.



Set for a June 5th release, you can now pre-Order "Americana" on Amazon.com (Thanks! You'll be helping to support us.)

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The "Oh! Susannah" Riffs Keep Coming: Shocking Blue's "Venus"

The "Oh! Susannah" riffs just keep right on coming it seems.

As we mentioned recently, with all of the anticipation for the upcoming album Americana by Neil Young & Crazy Horse, there's been a lot of focus on the song "Oh! Susannah".

And just as we were reminded about The Byrds version of "Oh Susanna" and James Taylor with Johnny Cash's version of "Oh Susanna" along comes another "Oh Susanna" version.

Here's the cult classic video of Shocking Blue's "Venus" which has the "Oh Susanna" riff.

Ahhh, those '60's....

Check it out.

ps - and just wait until you see tomorrow's video...



Set for a June 5th release, you can now pre-Order "Americana" on Amazon.com (Thanks! You'll be helping to support us.)

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Borrowed Tunes: Toronto Neil Young Tribute - May 4 & 5

A Toronto Neil Young Tribute coming up at Hugh's Room on Friday & Saturday, May 4 & 5.

This will be a special 5th Year Anniversary Event.

Neil Young Tribute

TOM WILSON
LEE HARVEY OSMOND
OH SUSANNA
LIAM TITCOMB
THE UNDESIRABLES
HEMINGWAY CORNER
ANNABELLE CHVOSTEK
BRENT TITCOMB
RORY JORDAN-STEVENS
DANIEL ROTH
DOUG CAMERON
CORIN RAYMOND

Thanks Mike R.!

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James Taylor with Johnny Cash Cover "Oh Susanna" - 1971

As we mentioned yesterday, with all of the anticipation for the upcoming album Americana by Neil Young & Crazy Horse, there's been a lot of focus on the song "Oh! Susannah".

And just as we were reminded about The Byrds version of "Oh Susanna" along comes another "Oh Susanna" version.

This one is so classic, it boggles the mind -- James Taylor with Johnny Cash on the Johnny Cash TV Show on Feb. 17, 1971. (Thanks Harold!)

Simply amazing.



Set for a June 5th release, you can now pre-Order "Americana" on Amazon.com (Thanks! You'll be helping to support us.)

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"Oh! Susannah" by The Byrds

With all of the anticipation for the upcoming album Americana by Neil Young & Crazy Horse, there's been a lot of focus on the song "Oh! Susannah".

And we were reminded that the last song on The Byrds 1965 album Turn, Turn, Turn was "Oh Susanna". (thanks Mark!)

From the liner notes for Americana by Neil Young & Crazy Horse for the song "Oh, Susannah":

This song written by Stephen Foster was originally performed on September 11, 1847. The Americana version was arranged with a new melody by Tim Rose and was originally performed by The Big Three in 1963, and updated by Tim Rose and the Thorns in 1964. This band did a lot of arrangements of folk songs that were changed to be rock and roll songs and called folk-rock. Tim Rose was one of the pioneers of folk- rock. Much of the music of Americana is based on this idea.

Set for a June 5th release, you can now pre-Order "Americana" on Amazon.com (Thanks! You'll be helping to support us.)

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2012 CROSBY, STILLS, NASH & YOUNG CONVENTION: Reggio Emilia, Italy, May 5 & 6

2012 CSN&Y Convention | Facebook

Nine bands from all over Italy, two locations, record stalls, cd, dvd, photographs, rare and never-seen-before audio and video items, collectors and fans from Europe, the fine cuisine of the Italian food valley, good vibes and a lot of great music. Free admission!

Saturday, May 5th: the international convention dedicated to Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young is back. And it displays an incredible program!

AFTERNOON (ALMOST) UNPLUGGED
It starts early, at 3 p.m. Saturday, May 5, at Tabacchi Blues Fountain Rubiera in Reggio Emilia (via Madonna of Pompeii 2 side via Fontana - www.tabacchi-blues.com). On stage at the five local bands will rise. Open dances Stefano Fedele from Udine, followed by Renzo Cozzani and Daniel Schiaffino from La Spezia, and again an acoustic trio , Bittersweet (Brescia) and the distortion sound of Topanga Four (Padova) and Neil's Addiction (Bologna).
Admission is free at Tabacchi Blues, and do not require booking.

ELECTRIC PARTY - NIGHT
From 7.30 p.m. on the night CSNY International convention change area. We'll move down to the "Batard" (by Canaletto, 35 in San Prospero, Modena - www.batard.it) where Simonel Borghi and Luca Poli from Ancona to kick off the program. After that, the Reggio Emilia band "The Youngs" will premiere the full Neil Young's Harvest, which in 2012 celebrates its first forty years. Then the Romans will go up on stage CSNY Experience Stefano Frollano and Francesco Lucarelli. The honor of closing the evening will be up to Rusties from Bergamo, the name is so popular in Italian music circuit.
At Batard the entrance is free, but there will be a dinner set menu (20 euros per person excluding drinks) for which we strongly advise you booked (via email at giampaolocorradini@gmail.com).

THIRD TIME
If there is a sufficient number of reservations (at least 40), Sunday, May 6 there will be a "third time" always at Batard: lunch set menu for 18 euros per person, excluding drinks, and free access to the stage for a jam session will go on till you drop ... who intends to enjoy the fantastic cuisine of Batard and listen and / or participate in the jam session on Sunday afternoon, you must book by mail at giampaolocorradini@gmail.com

CSNY AND THE INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION 'MADE IN COLLABORATION WITH MUZIK AND STATION RECORDS Kayman

MENU Batard Saturday, May 5 (20 euros per person excluding drink, booking recommended for caldissimamente giampaolocorradini@gmail.com) begin dinner at 20.30

Lasagne
Platter of cured salami PALMIERI of San Prospero with Fable Mortadella, Coppa seasoned Culaccia Zibello, Greaves, salami
Baskets with tigelle dumplings and baked
Platters of cheese Grana, Toma, Pecorino, accompanied by honey and jams

Torta Barozzi like chocolate and coffee
Water (excluding wine)

It 'will be a vegetarian alternative to the standard vegetable lasagna, insalatoni, salmon carpaccio, mozzarella and tomato crostini)

THIRD TIME MENU Batard Sunday, May 6 (18 EURO PER PERSON, LUNCH WILL 'ONLY IF THERE WILL BE AT LEAST 40 BOOKING. RESERVATIONS giampaolocorradini@gmail.com)

Tortellini in broth
Sausage with beans
Jam tart
Water and coffee (without wine)

INFORMATION AND RESERVATIONS: giampaolocorradini@gmail.com and 2012 CSN&Y Convention | Facebook

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Lincvolt Update: The Final Assembly Begins

Earlier today -- as part of Thrasher's Wheat's Earth Day observance -- we referenced how Neil is making a difference with his LincVolt project.

But we neglected to provide the latest update on the star crossed 5 year LincVolt project. From Lincvolt - Repowering the American Dream - Blog, we learn that LV is in the final assembly and about to begin touring around the country extolling the benefits of clean electric transportation.

Read all the details at Lincvolt - Repowering the American Dream - Blog.

(Thanks k!)

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Happy (Mother) Earth Day!

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Happy (Mother) Earth Day!

Neil Young performs "Mother Earth" in Milwaukee on October 2, 2010, from broadcast of Farm Aid 25: Growing Hope for America.



Save Mother Earth for another day...

Here at Thrasher's Wheat, we're observing Earth Day by playing Neil Young's Greendale.

And -- in all seriousness -- we try and make everyday Earth Day on this blog. Some may note the badge on the lower right sidebar that states that "This Blog Fights Climate Change". And we like to talk about Sun Green and Earth Brown's mission to save Alaska from time to time.



As we've argued repeatedly over the years about the vastly underrated and under appreciated Greendale, the inconvenient truth of Greendale was that Sun Green -- and Neil Young -- were right.



And -- inconveniently -- the job is bigger than saving just Alaska.

From Venice Magazine interview (February 2004) on making a difference:

YOUNG: "Well, I think it is incumbent upon me, with Greendale out there, to do everything that I can to try to live up to Sun Green's vision of what the world should be like, and the kind of changes people should make. Which is more like, "Put your money where your mouth is.

And it's slow, a painfully slow process, but one of the things that we are doing is starting to power our vehicles for this next tour with bio-fuel that has no emissions that damage the ozone, 75 to 80% less pollution than normal diesel, and we'll just try to make a statement that, "Hey, this is something you can do right now, I could be driving around in my SUV or Hummer burning vegetable oil." The thing everybody hates about those is how wasteful they are. The fact that it's big, it's in the way, it's macho, and it's polluting the fucking planet and wasting fuel while it's doing it, it's pouring gallons and gallons of gasoline through one of these things, that's what bothers people."

And that's only one reason why we applaud the LincVolt project.



The inconvenient truth of Greendale is that regardless of whether you loved it or hated it, it was "the most important album of 2003, the musical equivalent of Silent Spring".

Now that is clear that the classic capitalist economic model is seriously flawed we need to understand how best to re-engineer our societies. Because we have now reached the fork in the road and must make a serious choice -- continue in the direction we're heading or choose the hidden path which is less traveled.

Mother Earth by Neil Young


Oh, Mother Earth,
With your fields of green
Once more laid down
by the hungry hand
How long can you
give and not receive
And feed this world
ruled by greed
And feed this world
ruled by greed.

Oh, ball of fire
In the summer sky
Your healing light,
your parade of days
Are they betrayed
by the men of power
Who hold this world
in their changing hands
They hold the world
in their changing hands.

Oh, freedom land
Can you let this go
Down to the streets
where the numbers grow
Respect Mother Earth
and her giving ways
Or trade away
our children's days
Or trade away
our children's days.

Respect Mother Earth
and her giving ways
Or trade away
our children's days.

Neil Young performed "Mother Earth" at each of his concerts during 2010.

Why?

So, if you never really figured out what 2003's Greendale was all about -- or if you missed the stageplay concert -- then take a few moments and watch this video of "Be The Rain".



Be the Rain. Be the Change. Be the Wheat.

“Treat the earth well: it was not given to you by your parents; it was loaned to you by your children. We do not inherit the earth from our ancestors; we borrow it from our children.”

-- Ancient Indian Proverb.

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