Live at the Cellar Door cover

Live at the Cellar Door

Neil Young · 2013

45 min · 13 tracks · alternative rock

A raw and intimate collection of acoustic performances that captures the essence of Neil Young's poignant songwriting.

Top tracks — play these first

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    Tell Me Why Start here — The song's delicate melody and heartfelt lyrics set the tone for the album, showcasing Young's ability to convey vulnerability through simplicity.
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    Old Man — This performance emphasizes the reflective nature of the song, with Young's unfiltered vocal delivery bringing new life to its themes of aging and introspection.
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    After the Gold Rush — The haunting arrangement paired with Young's emotive singing creates a profound atmosphere, making this track a standout moment that encapsulates the album’s essence.
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    Cinnamon Girl — Young's acoustic take on this classic transforms it into a more intimate experience, revealing layers of longing that resonate deeply with listeners.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady acoustic journey throughout
  • introspective reflections on life
  • poignant moments of vulnerability
  • evening listening with friends
  • subtle emotional depth in lyrics

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer high-energy tracks
  • seek instant gratification

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Deep Cut — Captures intimate performances, showcasing songwriting depth but not a major entry point.
Themes
1970s folk revival· intimate storytelling· nostalgic reflection
Career context
Released in late 2013, 'Live at the Cellar Door' showcases Neil Young during a reflective phase of his career, following his experimental album 'Psychedelic Pill' from 2012. This live recording features performances from 1970, highlighting his early work at a time when he was transitioning into a solo artist after leaving Buffalo Springfield.
Stylistic neighbors
Bob Dylan· Tom Petty· The Band

Tracklist

  • 1 Tell Me Why Start here 2:52
  • 2 Only Love Can Break Your Heart 3:13
  • 3 After the Gold Rush 3:48
  • 4 Expecting to Fly 3:21
  • 5 Bad Fog of Loneliness 2:00
  • 6 Old Man 3:41
  • 7 Birds 2:19
  • 8 Don't Let It Bring You Down 2:38
  • 9 See the Sky About to Rain 3:21
  • 10 Cinnamon Girl 3:29
  • 11 I Am a Child 2:43
  • 12 Down by the River 4:24
  • 13 Flying on the Ground Is Wrong 7:11

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata