Young, Neil
Official Release Series Discs 8.5 - 12
Rare & Collectible Vinyl Records

2016 5LP 180gm HQ Box Set. Young's "Official Release Series" Continues With The Next Set Of Chronological Titles To Include: Long May You Run (The Stills-Young Band - 1976), American Stars 'N Bars (1977), Comes A Time (1978), Rust Never Sleeps (1979), and Live Rust (1979). In the realm of Neil Young's expansive discography, the "Official Release Series Discs 8.5 - 12" box set emerges as a vital collection, capturing a transformative period in the artist’s career. Released in 2020, this collection meticulously curates albums from the mid to late 1970s, a time when Young was navigating both personal and musical evolution. The set includes "Long May You Run" (a collaboration with Stephen Stills), the enigmatic "American Stars 'n Bars," the haunting "Comes a Time," and two records that have achieved a near-mythical status among fans: "Rust Never Sleeps" and its live counterpart "Live Rust." Each album encapsulates a phase of Young's artistic journey, reflecting his adept ability to oscillate between introspective folk melodies and the raw, electrifying energy of his rock persona. The remastering of these albums offers a fresh clarity, allowing listeners to dive deep into the sonic nuances that Young so masterfully crafts.

The box set's packaging is a thoughtful nod to Young's legacy, housing each album with artwork reminiscent of their original releases, thus preserving the vintage essence that fans cherish. This series not only presents the music in its intended glory but also acts as a historical document, marking Young’s transition into a more mature, reflective phase of his career. The inclusion of "Long May You Run," with its blend of harmony and discord between Young and Stills, provides a fascinating contrast to the solo introspection found in "Comes a Time," where Young's songwriting prowess is at its most tender and profound. Meanwhile, "Rust Never Sleeps" and "Live Rust" capture the raw, unfiltered energy of Young’s performances, solidifying his reputation as a master of live music. This box set is indispensable for aficionados and newcomers alike, offering a comprehensive glimpse into a defining era of Neil Young's formidable career.