Released 49 years ago this October
Decade
Neil Young · 1977
144 min · 35 tracks · alternative rock
A reflective journey through poignant lyrics and diverse soundscapes, blending folk, rock, and country with Young's signature emotive delivery.
Top tracks — play these first
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Down to the Wire Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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Heart of Gold — This track encapsulates Young's quest for authenticity and meaning, combining simple yet profound lyrics with a melodic structure that resonates deeply.
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Cinnamon Girl — With its iconic riff and introspective lyrics about desire and longing, this song exemplifies Young’s ability to blend personal narrative with universal themes.
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Down by the River — Featuring extended instrumental passages alongside haunting vocals, this track showcases Young's mastery of dynamics and emotional intensity, marking it as a standout piece.
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Old Man — This song reflects on aging and introspection, revealing Young's vulnerability through its sincere storytelling and memorable melody.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- reflective journey through nostalgia
- wave-like pacing invites contemplation
- dynamic ebb and flow experience
- captivating storytelling across decades
- for evening relaxation
Maybe skip if you
- prefer fast-paced listening
- seek standalone hit singles
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Critical Peak — A cohesive retrospective of Young's evolution, showcasing his artistic range and significance.
- Themes
- California dreamscape· aging wisdom· nostalgic longing
- Career context
- Released on October 28, 1977, 'Decade' served as a retrospective of Neil Young's career up to that point, showcasing tracks from his early albums like 'Everybody Knows This Is Nowhere' and 'Harvest'. This compilation followed the commercial success of 'Harvest' and helped solidify Young's reputation as a leading figure in American rock music during the 1970s.
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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Old Man
The narrator reflects on the wisdom gained from life experiences while addressing an older man directly, creating an intimate dialogue about life's trials.
Shifting between personal reflection and broader themes of generational wisdom, this moment highlights Young’s lyrical depth and storytelling prowess.
Tracklist
Disc 1
- 1 Down to the Wire Start here 2:29
- 2 Burned 2:16
- 3 Mr. Soul 2:50
- 4 Broken Arrow 6:14
- 5 Expecting to Fly 3:46
- 6 Sugar Mountain 5:41
- 7 I Am a Child 2:20
- 8 The Loner 3:50
- 9 The Old Laughing Lady 5:38
- 10 Cinnamon Girl 3:00
- 11 Down by the River 9:00
- 12 Cowgirl in the Sand 10:02
- 13 I Believe in You 3:28
- 14 After the Gold Rush 3:46
- 15 Southern Man 5:30
- 16 Helpless 3:33
Disc 2
- 1 Ohio 2:58
- 2 Soldier 2:28
- 3 Old Man 3:22
- 4 A Man Needs a Maid 4:00
- 5 Harvest 3:09
- 6 Heart of Gold 3:06
- 7 Star of Bethlehem 2:43
- 8 The Needle and the Damage Done 2:05
- 9 Tonight's the Night, Part 1 4:41
- 10 Tired Eyes 4:33
- 11 Walk On 2:41
- 12 For the Turnstiles 3:01
- 13 Winterlong 3:08
- 14 Deep Forbidden Lake 3:41
- 15 Like a Hurricane 8:17
- 16 Love Is a Rose 2:16
- 17 Cortez the Killer 7:31
- 18 Campaigner 3:30
- 19 Long May You Run 3:48
If this landed
Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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