Neil Young – Are You Passionate?

Artist: Neil Young

Title: Are You Passionate?

Label: Reprise

Rating: 9/10

Neil Young is a legend; I don’t have to explain to you who the man is. But this record takes a turn for something bizarre but beautiful.

Passionate:
“You’re My Girl” – Motown has dropped by and Neil decided to give it a try. Even with his scary falsetto the song still sticks organ and all.
“Differently” – Has an almost hidden Motown groove weaving its way through the background as Young’s voice does its best to soothe you to his yearnings.
“Let’s Roll” – About the horrors of September 11th. Poignant and lovely.
“Goin’ Home” – Another lovely, tortured beauty.
“When I Hold You In My Arms” – A beautiful slow dance.
“Two Old Friends” – Wonderfully good.

Focus:
“Mr. Disappointment” – the blues are back in town and Young doesn’t seem to have them as bad as he used to.
“Are You Passionate?” – Young’s voice wobbles but never falls.

Neil Young can’t outdo himself. Are You Passionate? Is one very interesting record. There are few disappointments and a lot to be thankful for. Neil Young continues to churn out great material at three times the pace of today’s artists. Let us recognize a genius that continues to produce.

+ rae gun