Neil Young’s latest CD Chrome Dreams II is nothing short of an incredible return to the styling of old. He goes fully back into his folk rock style that pulled in his first fans; and it works now just as well as it did back then.
Chrome Dreams II is in essence a concept album. It covers the triumph and woes of the regular people in the world. Lyrically, it is simplistic and straight to the point, which makes it easier to understand and easier to get into. Another thing that makes it easier to understand and to get into is the fact that, much like many of the other equally established rock/folk/blues artists, the lyrics tell stories. It is nothing short of poetry in terms of the words.
The themes are not new. However the presentation of the themes is real and heartfelt. It is easier to connect with, rather than listening to most of the musical material out there nowadays that is not country music.
Musically, it is just your normal folk rock album. There is some complexity when it comes to the instrumentation off of the guitar, drums and bass. This does utilize quite a few different instruments. They flow through each other just as easily as water. The compositions are perfect in setting the proper mood and go along with the storytelling lyrics.
There is a certain level of magic that comes out of the music. Since they are left open-ended in terms of story, you really do not know what will happen. However due to the way that the songs are built up, even in the darkest songs on the CD, you are left with a certain amount of hope that eventually everything will work itself out in a positive way. Some artists neglect to do that; however, this hopeful manner of writing is one of Neil Young’s talents. Even in the most desperate situations in his storytelling songs, there is still some level of hope.
Honestly there is nothing that should keep someone who is a Young fan, especially a die-hard Young fan, from getting this CD. Young’s been having a lot of luck with coming out with stuff that is musically, lyrically and emotionally perfect to suit the times we are in now. Even in desperate times though, he still remains as he had been, a voice of hope and conscience in rock music.