Trans cover

Trans

Neil Young · 1982

44 min · 9 tracks · alternative rock · blues · folk rock

A pioneering blend of synth-driven sounds and folk-inspired melodies, reflecting Young's embrace of technology.

Why this album works

Best for
wave-like pacing with peaks synth-driven sounds exploration thoughtful reflections on technology
Context
When 'Trans' was released in December 1982, Neil Young was navigating a period of artistic experimentation following his commercially successful album 'Harvest.' This album marked a distinct shift towards electronic music and showcased Young's willingness to explore new sonic territories after a series of rock-focused releases throughout the late 1970s.
If you like
alternative rock, blues, folk rock

Trans is an album by Neil Young, released in 1982. A pioneering blend of synth-driven sounds and folk-inspired melodies, reflecting Young's embrace of technology. 'Trans' is significant for its unconventional use of synthesizers and vocoders, influencing the emerging genre of synth-rock. Despite its mixed reviews upon release, it has gained recognition for its innovative approach and has been cited as an influence by various artists in the electronic and alternative scenes. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Trans sound like?

A pioneering blend of synth-driven sounds and folk-inspired melodies, reflecting Young's embrace of technology. Rooted in alternative rock and blues.

What makes Trans by Neil Young notable?

'Trans' is significant for its unconventional use of synthesizers and vocoders, influencing the emerging genre of synth-rock. Despite its mixed reviews upon release, it has gained recognition for its innovative approach and has been cited as an influence by various artists in the electronic and alternative scenes. When 'Trans' was released in December 1982, Neil Young was navigating a period of artistic experimentation following his commercially successful album 'Harvest.' This album marked a distinct shift towards electronic music and showcased Young's willingness to explore new sonic territories after a series of rock-focused releases throughout the late 1970s.

Who is Trans for?

Trans works well if you're into wave-like pacing with peaks, synth-driven sounds exploration and thoughtful reflections on technology.

How many songs are on Trans?

Trans has 9 tracks, running approximately 44 minutes.

Tracklist

9 tracks·44:25

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

  • 1 Little Thing Called Love 3:13
  • 2 Computer Age Standout 5:24
  • 3 We R in Control 3:31
  • 4 Transformer Man Standout 3:23
  • 5 Computer Cowboy (a.k.a. Syscrusher) 4:13
  • 6 Hold on to Your Love 3:28
  • 7 Sample and Hold Standout 8:03
  • 8 Mr. Soul 3:19
  • 9 Like an Inca 9:46

Release Date

December 29, 1982

Artist Origin

United States

Runtime

44 min 25 sec