Album Info
| Artist: | Neil Young |
| Album: | Trans |
| Released: | Australia, 1982 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Little Thing Called Love | 3:06 |
| A2 | Computer Age | 5:20 |
| A3 | We R In Control | 3:28 |
| A4 | Transformer Man | 3:17 |
| A5 | Computer Cowboy (AKA Syscrusher) | 4:08 |
| B1 | Hold On To Your Love | 3:25 |
| B2 | Sample And Hold | 5:09 |
| B3 | Mr. Soul | 3:16 |
| B4 | Like An Inca | 9:43 |
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 $150 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 cardboard mailers with a crushable zone on either side, and for extra safety we bubble wrap the records.
- We almost always ship in stock 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
Neil Young's "Trans," released on December 29, 1982, is one of the most intriguing and polarizing albums in his extensive discography. Known for his folk-rock roots and distinctive voice, Young took a bold and unexpected turn with "Trans," embracing synthesizers, vocoders, and electronic music influences. This album marked a significant departure from his previous work, showcasing Young's willingness to experiment and push the boundaries of his sound.
"Trans" was born out of a period of personal and professional transition for Young. During this time, he was dealing with the challenges of raising his son, Ben, who was born with cerebral palsy. The use of vocoders and electronic effects on the album was partly inspired by Young's desire to communicate with his son, who had difficulty speaking. This context adds a layer of emotional depth to the album, as Young explores themes of communication and connection through a futuristic sonic landscape.
The album opens with "Little Thing Called Love," one of the more traditional tracks on the record, featuring a catchy melody and straightforward rock arrangement. However, the album quickly shifts gears with "Computer Age," where Young's voice is heavily processed through a vocoder, set against a backdrop of synthesizers and electronic beats. This track, along with others like "We R in Control" and "Transformer Man," exemplifies the album's embrace of technology and its thematic exploration of the digital age.
"Transformer Man" stands out as a particularly poignant track, with its heartfelt lyrics and innovative use of electronic effects. The song's emotional core is evident, even through the layers of technology, and it remains one of the most memorable pieces on the album. Another highlight is "Sample and Hold," a track that combines robotic vocals with a driving electronic rhythm, creating a sound that was ahead of its time.
Critically, "Trans" received mixed reviews upon its release. Some critics praised Young's willingness to experiment and innovate, while others were baffled by the drastic shift in style. The album's electronic sound was a significant departure from the acoustic and rock-oriented music that had defined Young's career up to that point, leading to divided opinions among fans and critics alike. Despite the initial mixed reception, "Trans" has since gained a cult following and is appreciated for its bold experimentation and the context behind its creation.
In terms of commercial performance, "Trans" did not achieve the same level of success as some of Young's earlier albums. It peaked at number 19 on the Billboard 200 chart, a respectable position but not as high as some of his previous works. The album did not produce any major hit singles, although tracks like "Little Thing Called Love" received some airplay.
"Trans" did not win any major awards, but its influence can be seen in the way it foreshadowed the integration of electronic elements into rock music, a trend that would become more prevalent in the years following its release. The album's exploration of technology and communication also resonates with contemporary themes, making it a forward-thinking work that continues to be relevant.
In retrospect, "Trans" is an album that showcases Neil Young's artistic courage and willingness to take risks. It stands as a testament to his ability to reinvent himself and explore new musical territories, even at the risk of alienating some of his audience. For those willing to embrace its experimental nature, "Trans" offers a unique and rewarding listening experience that highlights Young's innovative spirit and emotional depth.