Neil Young With Crazy Horse - Way Down In The Rust Bucket (4LP)

Neil Young's "Way Down in the Rust Bucket" with Crazy Horse is a live album that captures the raw, unfiltered energy of a band at the height of its powers. Released on February 26, 2021, this album is a testament to the enduring partnership between Neil Young and Crazy Horse, showcasing a performance recorded on November 13, 1990, at The Catalyst, a small club in Santa Cruz, California. This concert was part of a warm-up tour for the "Ragged Glory" album, which had been released earlier that year.

The album is significant not only for its musical content but also for its historical context. It captures a moment when Neil Young was experiencing a creative resurgence, returning to his grunge and garage rock roots with Crazy Horse. The performance is a sprawling, electrifying set that spans over two hours, featuring both well-known hits and deeper cuts from Young's extensive catalog. The intimacy of the venue and the rawness of the performance make this album a unique listening experience, offering fans a glimpse into the dynamic interplay between Young and his longtime collaborators.

Critically, "Way Down in the Rust Bucket" has been well-received, with many reviewers praising the album for its authenticity and energy. The chemistry between Young and Crazy Horse is palpable, and the live setting allows for extended jams and improvisations that highlight the band's musical prowess. The album has been noted for its high-quality sound, capturing the nuances of the live performance while maintaining the gritty, unpolished feel that characterizes much of Young's work with Crazy Horse.

Standout tracks on the album include "Love to Burn," "Cortez the Killer," and "Like a Hurricane," each showcasing the band's ability to build tension and release through extended instrumental passages. "Love to Burn" opens the album with a driving rhythm and searing guitar work, setting the tone for the rest of the performance. "Cortez the Killer" is a highlight, with its haunting melody and evocative lyrics, while "Like a Hurricane" closes the set with a powerful, cathartic energy that leaves a lasting impression.

The album also features several tracks from the "Ragged Glory" album, including "Country Home," "Over and Over," and "Mansion on the Hill." These songs benefit from the live treatment, with the band stretching out and exploring the sonic possibilities of each track. The live versions often surpass their studio counterparts in intensity and emotional impact, a testament to the chemistry and spontaneity that define Young's collaborations with Crazy Horse.

"Way Down in the Rust Bucket" is not just a document of a single performance but a celebration of a particular era in Neil Young's career. It captures the spirit of a band that thrives on the edge of chaos, where the imperfections and unpredictability of live performance become a source of strength and inspiration. For fans of Neil Young and Crazy Horse, this album is a must-listen, offering a window into the creative process of one of rock's most enduring partnerships.

In terms of cultural significance, the album serves as a reminder of the power of live music and the unique connection between artists and audiences. At a time when live performances have been curtailed due to global events, "Way Down in the Rust Bucket" offers a nostalgic look back at a time when live music was a central part of the cultural landscape. It also underscores Neil Young's influence on the grunge movement of the early 1990s, with his raw, guitar-driven sound serving as a precursor to the music of bands like Nirvana and Pearl Jam.

Overall, "Way Down in the Rust Bucket" is a compelling addition to Neil Young's discography, capturing the essence of his collaboration with Crazy Horse and offering a powerful reminder of the enduring appeal of live rock music.