Buffalo Springfield Again cover

Released 59 years ago this October

Buffalo Springfield Again

Buffalo Springfield · 1967

33 min · 10 tracks · folk rock

A kaleidoscopic blend of folk rock and psychedelic influences, filled with intricate harmonies and introspective lyrics.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Mr. Soul — Opening with a distinctive guitar riff, this track captures the essence of the band's transition from folk to more electric sounds, representing both lyrical introspection and musical experimentation.
  • →
    Expecting to Fly — This song features lush orchestration that highlights Neil Young's emotive vocals, showcasing an ambitious blend of rock and classical elements that deepens the album's sonic palette.
  • →
    Broken Arrow — An epic closer with shifting tempos and rich harmonies, it embodies the creative aspirations of the band while hinting at the underlying tensions that would soon lead to their dissolution.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

72 /100
Alpine
Higher than 95% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong songwriting and varied arrangements, contributing to its lasting appeal.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with 'Mr. Soul', which features a prominent electric guitar riff and layered harmonies, setting a dynamic tone.
  • Tracks like 'Expecting to Fly' incorporate orchestral arrangements, contrasting with the more straightforward rock sound of other songs.
  • The sequencing of the album creates a flow that alternates between energetic tracks and more reflective pieces, maintaining listener engagement.
Composition 25% of the score
8/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
8/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady pacing with emotional depth
  • evocative melodies for introspective moments
  • rich harmonies that invite reflection
  • short tracks for focused listening

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking high-energy party vibes
  • prefer long, sprawling compositions

Where this album fits

Career context
Released on October 30, 1967, Buffalo Springfield Again came during a pivotal time for the band, following their self-titled debut and amid their growing reputation in the folk rock scene. This album marked a significant shift as tensions within the group began to surface, foreshadowing their eventual breakup, while also showcasing their evolving sound.

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Expecting to Fly

    The song’s bridge introduces an unexpected change in key and tempo, creating a sense of longing that contrasts sharply with its earlier sections.

    This structural shift not only enhances the emotional weight of the lyrics but also reflects the complexities of anticipation and desire woven throughout the song.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Mr. Soul 2:51
  • 2 A Child’s Claim to Fame 2:12
  • 3 Everydays 2:41
  • 4 Expecting to Fly 3:45
  • 5 Bluebird 4:34
  • 6 Hung Upside Down 3:29
  • 7 Sad Memory 3:03
  • 8 Good Time Boy 2:16
  • 9 Rock & Roll Woman 2:48
  • 10 Broken Arrow 6:13

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata