Album Info
| Artist: | Neil Young |
| Album: | Hawks & Doves |
| Released: | Australia, 1980 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Little Wing | 2:10 |
| A2 | Old Homestead | 7:38 |
| Bass - Tim Drummond | ||
| Drums - Levon Helm | ||
| Saw - Tom Scribner | ||
| A3 | Lost In Space | 4:13 |
| A4 | Captain Kennedy | 2:50 |
| B1 | Stayin' Power | 2:17 |
| B2 | Coastline | 2:24 |
| B3 | Union Man | 2:08 |
| B4 | Comin' Apart At Every Nail | 2:33 |
| B5 | Hawks & Doves | 3:27 |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
- We are a small independent record store located at 91 Plenty Rd, Preston in Melbourne's North (Australia)
- We buy and sell new and used vinyl records - if you have a collection you'd like to sell please click here.
- All pictures of the second hand/used vinyl records are actual pictures of the album in stock.
- We ship Australia wide for a flat rate of $10 for standard shipping or $15 for express post.
- Free Shipping for orders $125 and over.
- You can also pick up your order in store, just select Local Pickup at the checkout.
- We also ship internationally - prices vary depending on weight and location.
- We ship vinyls in thick, rigid carboard mailers with a crushable zone on either side, and for extra safety we bubble wrap the records.
- We almost always ship your vinyl next business day (excluding pre orders)
- We are strongly committed to customer satisfaction. If you experience any problems with your order contact us so we can rectify the situation. If the record arrives damaged or doesn't arrive we will cover the cost of replacing or returning the record.
- If you change your mind you have 30 days to return your record but you must cover the cost of returning it to the store.
- You can contact our Melbourne record shop at (03) 9939 3807 or at info@funkyduckvinyl.com
- Happy Listening!
Description
After a series of albums where Neil Young explored a multitude of styles and genres, 1980's "Hawks & Doves" presented a more homegrown and back-to-basics approach. A patchwork of new recordings and previously unreleased tracks from earlier sessions, the album showcases two distinct sides of Young's musical persona.
The album is notably divided into its two halves, both thematically and musically. The A-side, dubbed "Hawks," displays a deeply introspective Young. Here, he is contemplative, often echoing sentiments of nostalgia, longing, and a pining for simpler times. On the other hand, the B-side, "Doves," evokes a patriotic spirit, reflecting Young's own sentiments about America at the time.
"Little Wing," the opener, sets the tone immediately. A short, delicate ballad, it's reminiscent of Young's folkier endeavors, encapsulating the feel of pastoral landscapes and open skies. Its simplicity and brevity make it one of the most touching pieces on the album.
"Lost in Space," with its haunting harmonica and desolate lyrics, speaks to the loneliness and alienation that can come with fame and success. Young's voice, paired with the stripped-back instrumentation, makes this track a poignant reflection on the human condition.
However, as the album transitions into its second half, the atmosphere shifts. The songs become more upbeat and bear a sense of nationalistic pride. "Union Man" and "Comin' Apart At Every Nail" offer a lively country twang. They exude an American heartland vibe, embodying the spirit and resilience of its working-class people.
"Captain Kennedy," arguably one of the album's standout tracks, blends both these worlds. Its narrative style, combined with Young's emotive voice, paints a vivid picture of a Vietnam veteran's return and the ensuing challenges of assimilation into civilian life.
The instrumentation throughout "Hawks & Doves" remains relatively minimalist, ensuring that Young's voice and lyrics remain front and center. However, the occasional fiddle, harmonica, or steel guitar inserts itself just enough to emphasize the album's rustic and homespun essence.
One might argue that "Hawks & Doves" lacks the consistency of some of Young's more critically acclaimed albums. However, its beauty lies in its very dichotomy. The album oscillates between introspection and celebration, private reflection and public declaration.
It's also worth noting that this album arrived at a transitional period in Young's career. After the raw intensity of "Rust Never Sleeps," "Hawks & Doves" might seem subdued in comparison. But its understated nature allows the listener to appreciate the nuances and subtleties of Young's songwriting.
In conclusion, "Hawks & Doves" may not be the first album that comes to mind when considering Neil Young's extensive discography, but it offers a unique insight into his mindset during this period. It's an intimate portrayal of an artist grappling with personal demons while also expressing pride and hope for his nation's future. For fans of Young's folk and country leanings, this album is a treasure trove of heartfelt melodies and sincere lyricism.