Reviews (page 4 of 13)
A reminder that harmonica = good.
Decent 7 to strong 7
Neil Young is one of the artists this generator has made me realize I seriously underappreciated. This one isn't as strong as After the Gold Rush for me, but it's still a really solid album. It has that worn down, hazy feel to it that makes everything sound a little more raw and human. Neil just has a way of making these songs sound effortless without them feeling lazy. Favorite song: See The Sky About The Rain
calm vibe, i felt relaxed in a way, great for studying (for me)
For the turnstiles itself already makes so fun to hear. The 3 song combo For the turnstiles, Vampire blues and On the bech, make it great. 4/5, Neil is Neil.
Really enjoyable listen. Surprisingly jaunty and poppy. Very much enjoying "walk on".
very enjoyable to listen too, some nicer more moody/darker parts as well as some more upbeat folk-ish bits, very good album overall and something I will defo come back to Neil young coated best song - motion picture(for carrie)/ walk on
Super enjoyable. But excuse me while I go throw myself off a bridge.
Great kitchen music. And for driving late at night on country roads with the windows down. Was really surprised by this one.
We had a lovely morning listening to this album. Despite Mommy knowing a lot of Neil Young, she hadn't heard any of these songs before! A great collection!! Really hit the vibe of the hot spring morning! We listened to this while you did some tummy time and chilled on your playmat. I think you enjoyed! But probably 3.5 from you. A 4 from mom.
4.5
Really ahead of its time. Catchy songs
Nice songs. Not my faves but not terrible ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ Ambulance Blues is a highlight
I liked the vibe! Added Walk On and See the Sky About to Rain
Blues del que te hace más tranquilo el día.
Gorgeous, causally intimate, instant classic from the first note to the last harmonica blow. Favorite Track: Motion Pictures
NY didn't realise a bad album in the 70s. This is another classic
I’ve never listened to this before and I enjoyed it a lot
Really enjoyed this
Un álbum muy tranquilo, muy relax. Lo use para trabajar
Una obra introspectiva que destaca por su profunda influencia del blues. La instrumentación es orgánica y minimalista, apoyándose en progresiones clásicas y una cadencia melancólica que resulta muy disfrutable.
I've always been turned off by the imagery of the album cover so I never gave it a listen. Shame on me, the album is great.
There’s something classic and wholesome about this album. But after thinking it over, if it weren’t for “On the Beach,” I would have given it a 3. 7/10
Expected a 3, got a 4 album, can't complain there. Probably secretly what Death Stranding 2 is all about
Less familiar Neil Young songs, with a minimum of his most irritating habits. Quite good.
I think depending on my mood I could either rate this a 3 or a 4. Album was solid and I enjoyed the folk rockiness of it, so feeling a 4 today.
Really cool actually, takes a while to get used to there being no pitch correction at all though.
A real Young.
This isn’t my favorite Neil Young album but it’s still very good.
Ambulance blues might be my favorite neil young song I’d never heard. This album sounds like 2026
Some really great songs on this album and I love Neil Young so no complaints here.
A fine laid back album. On the Beach and Vampire Blues were the songs that hit the best for me.
His voice is so much brighter than it is on later albums. A sense of melancholy and being lost. The simple guitar and voice returns, with the songs having a strong blues influence. Not my favourite Young album, but it isn't bad.
Probably 4 stars. Not a huge Neil Young guy myself. I think if I listened to this album enough, I'd enjoy it enough to purchase though.
9/10
Very enjoyable. What’s everyone’s favourite planet?
Is it fair to criticize any Neil Young record for being boring? The through-line from him to alt-country, alt-rock and anything folk-related is impossible to ignore. The only complaint is the one-note sound of this album never feels like something to listen to on its own. I'd give this 4 1/2 stars if I could. 5 seems too generous, 4 seems too light. I wish I could be moved by Joni Mitchell the way this record moves me.
Honestly really glad I didn't snub this one, such a sweet record.
It is very nice at the beginning, very beach, but then it got really sad such a bummer. Crazy how we got this album during our beach trip
Yay! Fitting for beach
can’t believe i’m saying this but as a not big fan of Neil Young this album was dope! gosh, on the beach, what a tune!!
album solido y entretenido: 4/5 cancion fav: Perfect Day
Somewhere between 3 and 4 on this. Can’t name a standout track but the album has a good feel to it.
Not Neil's best, but certainly enjoyable. He's not the best revolutionary writer, but Revolution Blues is strong. Unfortunately Ambulance Blues is fairly tame and too long. But the dark undertones of this album contrasted with the beach scene on the album artwork is fantastic, so I usually enjoy my listening experience for this album
Först var jag lite tveksam men det blev bättre. Mycket känslor!
As a pretty big Neil Young fan it’s a bit embarrassing that this album completely passed me by. Some great tracks with Youngs usual guitar led style. Very enjoyable just not QUITE as good as some of his more famous/ popular albums.
Still not too fond of Young's voice but found it worked in most songs here. Ended up quite liking this. Walk On was my fav song and first listen of the album with Motion Pictures (For Carrie) and Ambulance Blues being my other highlights
Take me to the beach now!
Solid Neil
Good
On the Beach doesn’t announce itself with obvious hits, but it’s one of those records that reveals its strength the longer you sit with it. Rather than relying on a few standout singles, the album works as a cohesive whole, building a reflective and slightly hazy atmosphere that carries from the opening track to the closing moments. Neil Young leans into a more introspective mood here, and the arrangements follow suit. The playing is loose but purposeful, with understated guitar work, subtle rhythm section interplay, and occasional flashes of pedal steel and piano that deepen the album’s texture. Nothing feels rushed or overly polished, which gives the record a natural, almost conversational feel. Songs like “On the Beach” and the closing “Ambulance Blues” showcase Young’s ability to blend personal reflection with broader observations about fame, culture, and the times he was living through. Even without massive radio staples, the songwriting remains strong and memorable throughout. What stands out most is the consistency. The album maintains its tone and focus across the entire runtime, creating a listening experience that feels immersive rather than episodic. It may not have the blockbuster moments of some of Young’s better-known albums, but taken from start to finish, On the Beach is a quietly powerful record and one that rewards repeat listens.
Album #40, Neil Young, On the Beach ⭐⭐⭐⭐ I’m a huge Neil Young fan and always have been. I love his story, his style, the music he’s made, his lyrics, his singing, and his songwriting. I love all of it. This is the first Neil Young album to come up on the list, and it’s one of my favourites of his, maybe even my favourite. It actually got me thinking about his albums before this one even came up. While I definitely think On the Beach is an album you need to hear before you die, does Neil Young actually have a five star album? Does he have something like Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band or Blonde on Blonde? I’m not sure he does. He has so much music and such a deep, colourful discography, but none of his albums feel completely flawless or perfect. At the same time, nearly all of them are worth listening to at least once. So I’m even a bit surprised at myself for not giving On the Beach five stars, because it’s probably the closest he gets. Maybe that will change if more of his albums show up later. It’s a great album. It might even be his lyrical peak. Some of the lyrics here, especially on the title track, are incredible. Lines like “the world is turning, I hope it don’t turn away / I need a crowd of people, but I can’t face them day to day” are so affecting. If you don’t relate to that at some point in your life, you’re made of stone. He’s a genius lyricist. There’s some really transcendent music on this album. On the Beach, Ambulance Blues, and Revolution Blues are highlights. Revolution Blues in particular is one of the hardest hitting songs of the 70s. It’s just a bad motherfucker of a tune. And he’s got Levon Helm and Rick Danko playing on it, absolutely battering away. It’s a really unique sounding folk rock song. There are a couple of slightly weaker moments. See the Sky About to Rain is beautiful, but it doesn’t quite fit the album for me. It’s a lovely song, but it doesn’t hit as hard as some of the others. Vampire Blues is a great standard blues track too. Lyrically everything fits together and ties the album up nicely, but musically a couple of songs feel slightly less essential. Like the rest of what people call the Ditch Trilogy, the mix is rough and choppy, the performances are rough, and everything feels a bit ragged. But that’s exactly what makes it perfect in its own way. You never want Neil Young to sound slick or overproduced, and he almost never does. Slick just isn’t a word that belongs anywhere near his music. It’s ragged glory or nothing with Neil Young. One of my favourites of his, but it does make me curious what other people think. I’m a massive Neil Young fan, but does he actually have a five star album? What’s the real magnum opus? After the Gold Rush? Rust Never Sleeps? I’m genuinely interested.
Enjoyed it. I kinda like Neil young, he's a clear influence to a lot of music I love.
I'm starting to think the generator heard me say I like Neil Young because this is the 4th one I've gotten... And I do still like it but please, like 1 month no Neil Young just for varieties sake please
Для вечера в августе
Beautiful. Unsure how to rate this. Need a few months with it at least.
Platonic ideal of Neil Young
I love this era of music. Very chill and vibey. I was unfamiliar with the songs on this album, but I really enjoyed it. I knew Neil young from “old man”, but this is a different side of him that makes me like his work even more.
I'm surprised how much I liked this album. Very cool arrangements and Neil's voice aint half bad either! Was impressed - wish he would have named his tracks better. Everything ain't the blues. Highlights: For The Turnstiles, See The Sky About To Rain
"On the Beach" is a laidback, bleak, folk blues album. Young explores themes of anger and alienation through a rough, stripped away production and mellow arrangements. He further captures this in introspective guitar playing and melodic lines, as well as a notably impressive album cover that perfectly captures the melancholic theme.
8/10 Sólido, pero lejos de ser lo mejor de Neil Young. Canción destacada: Revolution blues
Gostei desse mais que o álbum anterior do Neil Young.
I've went back and forth on this one. Is it a perfect one? No, it's not. But Neil's message is loud and clear. I think what makes this a 4 for me and not a 5 is the inconsistent end.
Nice and chill, enjoyed it!
Jamais écouté avant. C'est beau, Neil Young, quand il est triste ! Top : Revolution Blues Flop : For the Turnstiles
The title track is lovely. I’ve warmed up to Neil Young’s voice over the years. This album is a beautiful spotlight on his talent.
Side Two is amazing. Unfortunately, Side One can't keep up. That's why it isn't a 5/5.
8
Me gustó, muy bueno, escuché más de Neil young y me gustó. No soy tan fan de la música de esa época 70s y menos el estilo, pero esto me gustó. Es muy para un sábado a la mañana 9/10
Some songs have a little too much country for my taste, but this is another very strong album by Young. 4/5
Probably the most "upbeat" album by him
Great album Standout songs: Revolution Blues On the Beach Ambulance Blues
vibey convinced myself this was the beach boys for some reason but it felt not like them and i was confused for half the album favorite song: vampire blues
It was nice, short, and easy on the ears
On the Beach might not be on the same level as Harvest but there's some good stuff on here. It's classic 1970's Neil Young singer-songwriter material; guitar-dominant songs (some acoustic and some electric) with simpler arrangements and lots of harmonica mixed in. It's one of those albums you can largely put on and drift away to. I also think Neil is an underrated guitarist in the sense that he doesn't get the same level of recognition as the greats. You don't really hear it on this album too much because of it's not the vibe, but he can sure make that guitar weep when he wants. For example, his guitar work on Walk On is pretty sick if you listen closely. Top tracks: Walk On, Revolution Blues, For the Turnstiles, On the Beach
Neil Young usually works for me.
Excellent album & artist.
Love Neil
This is really good. Never listened to this Neil Young album, but I'm a fan of this era of his music. May be a 5 with more listens.
Hit and miss as are most NY LPs. This one os more hit than miss.
221/1001 Neil Young - On the Beach Heard before? ❎ Revisit? ✅ This is great stuff. There's both a lightness and darkness to the music that takes you on a journey. Having only listened to a couple of Young albums before, this is one I'll add to the list.
De die
Nice classic rock album
Sometimes truly great, sometimes a little on the boring/repetitive side, overall it feels vulnerable and glides through
After my last Neil Young experience I was fully expecting to appreciate this effort, and the effort did not disappoint. It's a short and intimate listen, it feels like snippets of deep conversation with the artist turned into subtle arrangements that capture fleeting moments and difficult times in a very beautiful way. I'm happy I know this album now, for when the melancholia only merits reflection. Memorable project, couple of flat out amazing songs all on their own. 4.3/5
Goes pretty hard!
Introspective and a bit mellow, even for Neil. I really enjoyed the album and the title track is one of my favorites. The album finishes strong, but overall falls just a bit short of being great for me.
I normally am not a big fan of music like this but I really thought this had some pretty good tracks.
Government issue Neil Young. Interesting it has zero big name hits. It’s endearingly straightforward
You sorta know what you’re in for with Neil Young, but it doesn’t take away from the sound. What he does really well is convey the emotion of each song to the listener, harder than it seems.
At first, the album didn’t really click with me, but from “Vampire Blues” onward I was completely drawn in. There’s an effortless, stripped-back blues feel that sounds raw and real, and it reminded me of Jack White. It’s not just the guitar, but also Neil Young’s high-pitched, slightly unfocused way of singing. He doesn’t sound powerful or refined in a conventional sense, but that fragile, almost careless tone feels honest.
neil young must've been on the oregon coast because this album perfectly represents it. the sudden shift in mood from "walk on" to "see the sky about to rain" was so amazing favorites: walk on; see the sky about to rain; on the beach
Already know and love this album. A tough listen in places as part if the misery trilogy. Walk on one of my favourite album openers ever.
I used to think this was my favorite Neil album and on some days it still is. For the Turnstiles, and Revolution Blues are up there with my all time favorite Neil songs. And while Ai think most Neil fans agree this album is a banger it’s still without any major hits so dare I say this album is underrated. This album is perfect for this list because everyone should listen to this before they die.
love neil young, loved this
I wanna listen to this when I’m on the porch of a secluded cabin in the woods
You never know what you're walking into with a Neil Young album, and this one does not disappoint. Sounds great, themes are engaging, and the style is pure Neil.
Pretty chill and slow, but in all the right ways. Highly enjoyed it. First song, "Walk On" might've been my fave.
viiibes mou arese full
never listened extremely closely but it was pleasant for multiple rotations in the background! thank you NY
I listened to this while working remotely today after being stuck inside for 3 days due to the weather. The vibe of the album is a little too real.
I’ve been lazy so far this week because of the snow days. Brain gets hazy. Good album. I like Neil Young here. Wish we’d kept a cleaner separation so I didn’t sour to him with CSN&Y.
This was a major vibe while clearing 100 lbs of ice off of my car. Hit equally as well on a quiet winter wasteland walk.
This was my first time hearing this one, and while it isn’t my favorite Neil album, it’s still a wonderful listen. “For the Turnstiles” was a standout track. Four stars for the unexpected nature of this album. Pretty incredible how much influence MJ Lenderman took from this album specifically. Turning it over to my dad, a Neil Young aficionado, who needed something to do and decided to listen to the album while snowed in: On The Beach by Neil Young is a bit of a jumble of an album with sketchy production (especially on Walk On a song I like very much), but for the most part it holds up. Neil is such a great story teller, and stayed current to the times (Vampire Blues references the oil tycoons in Texas). I've always loved For the Turnstiles with just Neil on banjo and Ben Keith on dobro. One song I wish he had added to the album was Winterlong, but he did add it to the Decade triple LP set. I did enjoy listening to On the Beach (twice) for the first time in many years, and look forward to hearing it again
Chill. Not annoying 70s
You can’t go wrong with Neil.
He can’t keep getting away with this
Persoonlijk vind ik dit een heerlijk album. Zeker de nummers waar de blues vibe omhoog komt is genieten. Gwn een man met zn gitaar en prachtige stem. Kantekening is wel dat het veel van hetzelfde is. Voor mij niet erg, ik houd exact van deze stijl. Maar; ik kan mij voorstellen dat men dit ook een minder album kan vinden. Voor mij is dit echter dik een 4.
Beautiful album! Some songs through these album got me thinking: this is a clear 5 stars! some brought me down a bit. 4 stars is a good compromise
its pretty good, not special enough to be a 5 though
I like Neil Young
Started out feeling pretty fatigued with Neil Young albums, but liked this one by the end of it
Es un duro este tipo. El Deja Vu de CYSN ya está siendo mi disco favorito de los que llevo escuchados en esta movida de momento, y me dio ganas de escucharme cositas de Neil Young en solitario, así que me entró super guay este disco. Walk On es mi nuevo anthem. Más rockero de lo que me pensaba pero hay temas muy buenos y me ha gustado mucho.
Shakey being peaceful - nice!
This is the Bob Dylan album I never knew I needed.
Bit slow
Severely written off Young album
Nice stuff. Never heard any of the songs on the album though.
Good this, of course, coming as it does in the truly majestic phase of Young's solo albums. It's not up there with Harvest or Goldrush, to be honest, it just doesn't quite have the standout tracks. What it does have is a really lovely overall vibe to it, helped by some of the most mellow guitar work and very smooth vocals.
Continuo sem ouvir uma má música do Neil Young. Mais uma lenda da música, muita música e muita música boa. Nao é o melhor álbum dele, para mim, mas é bom. See the Sky About to Rain e On the Beach foram as minhas favoritas, mas nao há uma má musica neste álbum.
lindo
Really enjoyed this, chilled and country vibes
4/5 - Great album. Can't quite give it 5/5.
Kojima probably listened to this before making death stranding 2
We've had quite a few Neil Young albums and none of them really did it for me but this one was excellent. Favorite Songs: On the Beach, Revolution Blues
Liking folk songs like these sometimes makes me feel shallow. But I'm definitely not the only one liking them.
I hadn't realized that Neil Young's ban of Spotify had ended, but there is the link to On The Beach. Anyhow, Walk On has a nice feeling to it, great open to the album. I like Vampire Blues and Ambulance Blues a lot as well. Introspective lyrics all through it. It feels like you're taking a road trip through some moody vistas to nowhere in particular, but that these landscapes are also Young's varied emotional landscape. This is one of those albums that grows on you the more you listen to it, having a hard time deciding if this is a 3 or 4 star so I'll give it the benefit of the doubt and go with 4.
Dope
Favorite songs: Walk On, Revolution Blues, On the Beach, Motion Pictures
7 What I would not give to be on the beach with my friend Neil young. I call him my friend because he is so good to me, just like a friend is.
Very lovely even though I’m not personally on the beach
I really don't like Neil Young's voice, but somehow he makes it work. The music and songwriting are great, and I enjoyed this a lot more than I thought I would.
damn there really is a lot of neil young on this list. my second one in three days
Classic rock album. Nice listen.
Solid
Much preferred this to harvest. Started really strong with walk on and fizzled somewhat but enjoyable throughout
Have discovered I kind of love Neil Young, what a great artist.
Always dig me a Neil album. Dictionary has a picture of Neil for the definition of prolific. A distinct singular voice that rarely disappoints. This album soars with most of his efforts.
Peak Neil.
I'm always down for Neil
some gems here..
First time listen, will return for more
What in the Dylan?? This was excellent!!
Neil Pining
favs- See the Sky about To Rain, Walk On least fav- Vampire Blues, Motion Pictures (For Carrie) HM- On the Beach
Nice Neil Young album. Sound mixing of all the instruments sounded so good back then.
Classic Neil with one of my favorite Neil album covers. While it wasn't wholeheartedly accepted at the time, this one has aged well and still sounds great! Here's to Neil and the beach!
I am a huge Neil Young fan, though I don't know this record very well. Excellent as expected, and one that I feel needs multiple listens to grasp.
Neil Young... ik kan er niet objectief over oordelen.. ik heb praktisch al zijn platen... deze is een minder bekende dacht ik, maar ik kende toch de meeste nummers... heel wat breekbare songs, ik kan verstaan dat mensen hem een oude zaag vinden die geen gitaar kan spelen... maar ik heb een andere mening
Æ huske omtrent ingenting av det her, sjøl om æ vet æ hørte på det, men det hørtes ganske Neil Youngsk ut?
Pleasant
Classic Neil. Simpsons: Yes
On the beach is my favourite Neil Young song I think, I might listen to this again today but if not it's still going to be a 4
I don’t think he can do any wrong. That last song got a little iffy but this is a really solid album of songs that I have never heard before and will likely listen to all of them again. Great album.
Neil Goat
A bit hit and miss but overall very good and it’s Neil Young so always something there worth listening to. Title track and Revolution Blues were standouts for me.
While the tracklist itself doesn't contain really any of his greatest hits (barring maybe See the Sky About To Rain), this comes higher for me in his discography than something like Harvest, which has several of his most loved songs, but with a frankly awful orchestration. On The Beach sounds like what Neil Young should sound like to me — simple, straightforward music from a man with a guitar. There are no extraneous backing instruments getting in the way of the actual songs and songwriting.
I’ll never like Neil’s vibrato, but this is a gooder overall.
Godfather of grunge indeed. I have a soft spot for NY
You did it again Neil
I liked the album, quite low and chilled songs and lyrically great, and relatable.
Good album by Neil
A fair Neil Young album. Folksy, short, some blues too.
i liked the background music and singing
I was familiar with many songs on this one and still enjoyed them! A relief after the police album. Great cover too! Listen to this while playing GW2 so good vibes all around.
I really liked this album! I actually like this better than Harvest Moon, but I am pretty amenable to Neil Young. This one is folksy and bluesy with some fun musical variation. It's a time and place for sure, but I enjoyed listening to it. I love the cover, it's well composed and very satisfying, it's a 5/5.
Classic Neil Young, great mixing on this studio album.
Some slappers on there
I can confirm that this is a Neil Young album. I kind of like Neil Young and really like some singles. This is a great album but from my objective perspective not quite a 5 but truly a glorious album. I've added it to one of my playlists
Classic Neil young sound. On the beach was a masterpiece. Good album.
I enjoyed this album. It's not my favourite Neil Young album, but on repeated listening, it does drag you in.
the best era of Neil Young
I found myself wanting more of the sound created in Walk On, but that is because I am not a huge fan of slower tunes. The mixing on this album was great; it had a crisp sound to it.
You're All Just Pissing In The Wind 1001 Albums Generator 162 (11/14/2025) On The Beach is Neil Young's sad boy album. I am not super familiar with Neil Young outside of his work in CSN&Y, but I loved this. The first side has a bit more high tempo, whereas the second side is more slow and features long tracks. I loved the country and almost Fleetwood Mac-esque vibe of Walk On and the Bob Dylan sound on Revolution Blues. See The Sky About To Rain is led by a cool organ, while For The Turnstiles is very minimal and features a banjo very prominently. After a kind of boring blues rock jam, the second side opens with the title track, which is quite heart wreching. Young talks of his complicated feelings of isolation through his fame. "Though my problems are meaningless, that don't make them go away". Damn. I would also be remiss not to mention the impact that this song in particular had on the slowcore movement that started over a decade later. Overall, I really enjoyed my time with On The Beach, but I did find it dragging a little bit at the end; even though the closing track is really good, 9 minutes was a bit tough. Great album though, and the first half is especially eclectic and interesting. 4/5. Favs: Walk On Revolution Blues On The Beach Least Fav: Vampire Blues
I've always been a Neil Young agnostic - I like the odd song, but never really felt the need to delve into his back catalogue - but I enjoyed this more than I thought I would. I'm intrigued now for his other albums that must be coming my way.
Solid, reliable album!
4.5/5
In the vision of Neil Young built up in my mind over listening to his records countless times as well as watching footage (and going to one live show) On the Beach isn't where I think of him, but this album is a great snapshot of post-Harvest Young that still possesses a surprising contemporaneity.
On the Beach captures Neil Young at his most raw and introspective. It’s folk rock stripped to its bones: weary, poetic, and unguarded. Young’s songwriting here feels less like performance and more like confession, steeped in the disillusionment of the era yet timeless in its emotional weight. It’s hard to critique someone so deeply woven into the fabric of rock history, and this album simply reinforces why Neil Young remains one of the great storytellers in music.
Was good! Light heartened and fun. Feel like I knew some of the songs
Title track hits home, this whole album feels like Neil gave us a key to his inner thoughts and let. us walk around his head.
the idea of going from the center of the road, into the ditch, and how the ride is bumpier there but more worthwhile really resonates with me. I love that about neil, he did what he wanted to and thats it. its a beautiful record and one ill surely buy. Not all the tunes are sticking to my ribs yet, but they will in due time.
I like
NY is great. Reminded me so much of Kurt Vile, easy to see how much he was influenced by Young
I don't think I've ever heard this album, and now I have and that's great
Enjoyed this thoroughly!
Classic Neil
That was beautiful! I enjoyed it.
Not my usual thing, but there were some nice moments on this record.
This album starts with Walk On, which is confirmation of why I never listened to Young growing up. Man can't sing--not in any normal sense of it at least--and his guitar playing is meh. But as you go deeper, Wow. If ever there is proof that songwriting, and that the ability to imbue a song and its performance with feeling--with soul--is more important than chops, this is it. Even just 3 tracks in, Revolution Blues is got a classic laid back drivin' Young vibe. The next few tracks until On the Beach I can live without. But my god, absolutely floored by On the Beach: what a glorious bluesy lamentation. I could listen to this on repeat for days and it'd do my sould good. Rest of the album seems solid, but didn't get more than a first listen on this first pass.
I’ve always really enjoyed On The Beach by Neil Young. Aside from Harvest, it’s my favourite of his albums — an easy listen with some truly great songs, the perfect recipe for a timeless record. I was pleased to give it another spin today. On The Beach feels musically laid-back yet carries an undercurrent of anger and frustration in the lyrics, balanced by a faint sense of optimism for the future. It’s a beautifully crafted album, both mellow and meaningful. Favourite track: Walk On and On The Beach Least favourite track: Every song earns its place here. Album artwork: A lovely, evocative cover that perfectly matches the album’s mood.
Huh, I've never heard of this one before. For an album "On the Beach" there sure are a lot of blues... Opener Walk On is a surprisingly loose and bright sound from Young as despite his melancholy lyrics. He spends the song reminiscing over the good times when the "money wasn't so good" and contrasts that with his current position where people he doesn't know talk about him but never have anything good to say. Ultimately his suggestion is to walk on and ignore it. See the Sky About to Rain finds Young dropping his guitar in favor of a warm electric piano and country twang of a ballad -- fine song. Actually a really big fan of For the Turnstiles. Outside of the subject matter that is evermore valid today in the world of Ticketmaster, the stripped down composition is just lovely -- love me a little stereo banjo / dobro. Vampire Blues is probably my favorite track on here. Speaking to themes of oil addiction and the predatory nature of the industry along a catchy blues progression. On the Beach is a patient trudging song on which Young laments the fact that he's made it to the beach, but still isn't able to break through with a single. All in all, I found this to be an enjoyable listen that grew on me under repeated play. Soft 4.
Not surprising that Neil Young is on this list this many times, but I have been surprised with how much he has grown on me. Just a smooth album.
Hadn't heard a single Neil Young song off this before and I enjoyed it. Not his best work but damn solid still. Really enjoyed See the Sky About to Rain.
Solid 4
On the Beach is a haunting, beautifully weary reflection on disillusionment and solitude. The album drifts between ragged, loose jams and quietly devastating confessionals, carried by Young’s cracked voice and stark honesty. Its hazy production and melancholic tone create a mood that feels both intimate and desolate. Though it’s not immediate or polished, On the Beach rewards patience with emotional depth and understated brilliance.
As with every classic era neil young album i have listened to, the songwriting is amazing. I am personally a big fan of his voice. It's still not as good as tonight's the night though.
Had a little cry on the bus along to this… good stuff
Love Neil, this one is a hidden gem in his discography.
Neil Young in my mind is always mediocre stuff, but when I put it on it’s actually quite incredible! Very balanced songs, pleasant to listen to actively or as background music and decent production
Love the trilogy. This was an amazing, reflecting and easy going album.
Didn’t know Neil had the slow blues in him. Like the raspy voice and slower tempo to the songs.
Wholesome, hearty, worthy. Also rather good.
Need to listen to more Neil Young, this is good stuff
I've listened to a bunch of Neil Young and never heard this album. Kinda surprised this one's in here rather than Harvest or one of his all-timers. But then again, at least it got me to check it out, because it's real solid. Not his best, and there's no real classic track on here, but it's a solid all-the-way-through album, which I like. Vampire Blues was kinda lousy though.
Nice
I love Neil Young. I love Buffalo Springfield, and Crosby Stills Nash and Young. That said, Im not sure how I have never heard of this album and I would bet money that Jack White and Violent Femmes love it. I would buy a copy of this record and listen to it regularly. This album is amazing.
Big Neil Young fan here. But his discography is among the most exhausting in all of rock-dom. After the Gold Rush, Harvest, and Freedom are definitely all top 100 albums for me, with After the Gold Rush being top 10. But he's put a whole lot of absolute junk out there. Smart of him to put out Decade to help separate out the wheat from the chaff in the 1970s. Had not listened to this whole album before. It was better than I thought it would be. And it encourages me to go back to some of these deep cut albums. Which I might regret.
For an album titled "On the Beach", that was kinda bleak.
Honest gorgeous stuff. Not his best but up there in the 1001 easily.
Really enjoyed this. Slightly depressing of course but every track was a banger
A really nice album! I know he's not the best singer but the songs were lovely 4 ⭐️
i guess i always thought neil young was for old white men but i enjoyed! the end turned a bit too slow stoner for me but loved motion picture and walk on. honestly didn’t listen to the lyrics too closely but the vibes were very chill to sad which has its time and place
Liked more than I thought I would. Vampire Blues was a standout 🧛♀️
Less spectacular than some of his other albums. Still can’t get enough of his style. Low 4
Much better than I remembered.
If you’ve only heard Neil Young’s most famous albums, there are shades to On The Beach that will surprise you. It’s comforting to hear him in this less momentous mode. He never pushes the performance too hard, you instead lean in and let him whoosh you away with a delicate voice and gorgeous finger picking guitar. He is a great storyteller.
MJ Lenderman but 50 years earlier. It is crazy how influential this album is. Love the songs and his voice and the scrappy production. Super super great. 4.5
The way MJ Lenderman is just Neil Young but for Gen Z needs to be studied it’s nuts. Anyways appreciate this album even more than when we heard it for the 70s list. Neil young is an awesome songwriter
This one grew on me a lot the more I listened to it and I really quite liked a lot of it.
Nice chilled affair, and for Neil Young it does feel quite happy. Although to be honest, if he’d farted into a microphone for 30mins in the early 70s, I’d probably still like it, he was on it then. I do though struggle with the concept of Neil Young being a beachy kind of person. I see him more of a sit round the campfire in the wilderness kind of chap, guitar in one hand and rifle in the other to take potshots at some bastard corporate loggers. I could be wrong though.
It's a 4.5 for now, higher than "Harvest" but still not "After the gold rush". I have a feeling it can become a 5. It was a beautiful surprise.
Pretty good folk rock album. I grow more convinced that most of CSNY was better than Dylan.
great
my last neil young album is not a good experience but this is quite amazing. but quite my thing but still a 4. 4/5
For the picture I have in my mind of Neil Young, the album cover of On the Beach ain’t it. Neil Young is buckskin coats, moccasins, a flannel shirt, standing in the forest in the fall. On the Beach has him, literally, on the beach in white pants and a yellow sweater. It’s weird. The music, though, is Neil Young. Good music with lyrics that mean something, and his patented stop-and-start, weird guitar solos. This album was his attempt at not doing what he had been doing to get big and famous. I can appreciate that, but without knowing what the albums before this sounded like, I’m not sure I’ll get the big deal. There are a lot of blues songs on here, at least blues Neil Young’s way. I liked everything on here, but I’m not sure its impact is something that can be digested in a day’s listening. It seemed critics were like that when it came out in 1972. It’s one of those albums that grows on you with further listening. I listened to it twice, with the lyrics the first time. I must say, it didn’t blow me away. On many of the albums on the 1,001 list, it’s hard to appreciate things that were new in the 1970s when you’ve heard everything since then. I will say, Neil Young has been a blind spot in my music listening life, and I’m looking forward to more albums. Maybe one day, I’ll just start them and listen to them in chronological order. Until then, I think the significance of some of these albums I’m missing.
Back when I was in college I used to go to a bar and.....oh wait, wrong Neil Young album.
Neil è il mio canadese preferito. Quest’album segna una svolta dal momento che inizia a incorporare elementi rock in un suono folk/country e chiaramente all’epoca non fu capito. Numero 1
Allora ad essere bello è bello. Però mi sono anche resa conto che dipende molto dal mood in cui mi trovo quando ascolto musica. Ieri, ad esempio, speravo che quest’album finisse il prima possibile perché mi stava solo facendo innervosire, era troppo lento. Tuttavia è innegabile il fatto che sia fatto bene.
I enjoyed this album. Good mix of funk and folk.
Classic voice. Motion pictures, sort of a slow porch song, got me
“ On the Beach is one of the few from Young's catalog that doesn't land easily on either his country or hard-rock piles. Three song titles with the word "blues" give you an idea of the mood, but hardly prepare you for the bleak anger of "Revolution Blues" or "For the Turnstiles", post-apocalyptic visions as eerie as any of 28 Days Later's scenic pans.” — Rob Mitchum, Pitchfork https://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/11868-on-the-beach-american-stars-n-bars-hawks-doves-re-ac-tor/
fav tracks: "Vampire Blues" and "Motion Pictures (For Carrie)"
lovely!
Very 1974
Neil Young seems like a real cupcake but I can get my foot tapping to his music so I’ll keep listening.
I like an album that have have a banjo, dobro, harmonica, and bongo drums all in one. Vibes were good, I just don’t like his voice. It is Willie Nelson-ish and I’m not a fan
It's Neil Young! Very good album. 8/10
One of the best written albums I’ve heard. The songwriting is extremely strong throughout and I’m now looking forward to the other Neil Young albums on this list. The different styles on the album, country, blues, and folk, all work very well together. The record has an aesthetic or vibe that I’m not quite sure how to describe but I really like whenever I hear in music. 4/5
A slow smooth rock/country sound with a nice voice to match. New music to me but I enjoyed it a lot. Certain days music like this works so well.
I like Neil Young, but didn't recognize any tracks on this album. I think I've heard the second track, See the Sky About to Rain, which is good. The opening track, Walk On, is a little underwhelming. Revolution Blues is solid. For the Turnstiles is a great folk track too. Vampire Blues is a good blues track. Other than the first track, the whole album is pretty consistent and good. Even though it doesn't really have any absolute classics, this album is more consistently good than some of the more famous albums. 4/5
It's a great album with a lot of variety, but I don't know it as well as some of the others
Pre-listening thoughts: it is ABSURD how much Neil young is on this list and we’re like maybe halfway through with his stuff my god Post/during listening thoughts: I mean it’s a good thing I remember I LIKE Neil young when his stuff gets generated and I actually sit down and listen to it. If I was a Neil young hater I would probably have a hard time with this list. I mean I do have a hard time with this list but for other reasons. I love the album cover for this one. I really like the sound of this album. I think there’s a groove here that some of his other stuff doesn’t quite have. It actually suits his singing style quite well. I do think it is unnecessary to have THREE song titles end in the word blues. Who are you, Bob Dylan? 7.5/10 DID I NEED TO HEAR THIS BEFORE I DIE: nah Fav tracks: Walk On, Revolution Blues Least fav tracks: For the Turnstiles, Vampire Blues
Typically, I only like a handful of Neil Young songs. I found this album to be very enjoyable and easy to listen to.
Really good singer-songwriter record. The music is great and the lyrics are sharp. Every detail — the solos, the additional instrumentation — feels in service of the song. This wasn’t a Neil Young record I was familiar with, but I’d love to hear it again. Great album cover too.
Pretty good
This broke through my animosity for NY (not musical, for personal reasons). I’m here for this.
Don’t know why I don’t listen to more Niel Young. Am going to try and start.
Nice sounds, listened once to feel it and another to hear the lyrics.
Worth a relisten, I'll play it again. 8/10
Very folksy, almost blues-like. Overall a great listen.
It's Neil Young
Another Neil Young album... This is good album. Pitchfork: 9.5 Rolling Stone: Top 500 Albums #311 (2020) Best Songs Walk On See The Sky About To Rain On The Beach Motion Pictures (For Carrie)
Winner! Grumpy Neil Young is fun. He’s fun when being dark. 7.1
Kinda depressing. Like so much of his stuff.
Pretty great album - pretty dynamic range of songs that felt pretty cohesive and nice to listen to.
Album écouté sur la plage, face à la mer, comme il se doit !
Crisp and happy for a Neil Young album. Enjoyable.
Very clam and lyrically focused , strange but in a beautiful way ?
His fifth album. Rock / Folk Rock. I'd never been a huge fan of Neil Young. I saw him live at a festival in Western Australia. He performed just before the Arctic Monkeys. This was in 2008 I think. He was good and I got him that day. He had an aura and really nailed his set. As for this album. I really like it. I cant put my finger on it. It's simple yet punchy.
Really strong album - I would give it a 4.5 if possible.
Solin ny fayre
need to listen again more closely to lyrics but I listened to this twice throughout the day for the very beautiful instrumentation. only Neil Young song I knew previously was rockin in the free world I did not know he was this good
I have this album on vinyl. It is very typical Neil Young with a some what raw production. None of these songs became "best of" songs for Neil but I think there are a few gems here.
A real treat to discover a Neil Young album I did not know existed. A perfect songwriter.
Nice and relaxing folk stuff, i liked it
Really Enjoyable. Last song was a bit of a slog, in fact the entire back half felt lacking in energy, but it didn't really affect the experience until the final track. My Standout: For The Turnstiles.
Not my favourite, but surprisingly strong - great melodies & hooks.
Grateful deadish, anger, alienation On the beach Motion pictures Ambulance Blues
Really nice blend of folk, country, and blues, with Young’s soft vocals and the sparse production lending a chill vibe.
This era of Neil Young is my favourite. Listening to this I learnt John K Sampson's Vampire Alberta Blues is an hommage to Vampire Blues off this album.
Would re listen. Curious what the doom trilogy is
Blind spot for me on Neil Young Decent album, nothing stands out as an amazing track like some of his other albums, but also no real bad tracks.
Fav song: see the sky about to rain Worst: for the turnstile 8/10 album
Not a bunch of hits but still a great album by Neil Young
good Album, enjoyed it
Leuk!
young's best
Better than the last one
Neil Young is a god-like talent. I did not know this album but enjoyed very much.
SEN. BUCKLEY CALLS FOR NIXON TO RESIGN
Another good Neil young record, much better than his crazy horse stuff. Like the vibe, and his voice works despite the uniqueness. Laid back bluesy folky mellow rock and roll. Love it.
Great! What a beautiful voice Neil Young has. The music is light, both in it's melodies and the instrumentals, with few instruments and minimal production. It still has a sense of melancoly, though. It feels like I've heard the songs before, probably true in some cases, but mostly I think it's because the music is easily digestable. I should really listen more to the lyrics, didn't pay attention to them during my listen. The feelings I get from it are summery.
Rv/G
He’s always sang like an old man but somehow it works
One of Neil Young’s most Neil Young albums.
Pretty, pretty good. Complete blindspot for me.
Et ret hyggeligt Neil Young album
Pretty chill pretty fun
Zuhause, Heidenheim, Deutschland. Läuft fein durch!
'Some get stoned, / Some get strange, / But sooner or later / It all gets real.' Neil Young has always gotten real, but this record is indeed on the beach, a lighthearted fantasy, too winsome in spirit to be somber in truth, tho w/ a half buried car and overcast skies. It's hard to place Young, he's such a genre-bending artist, tho at the same time almost impossibly traditional: that's what makes it magic, I guess. 'All the bush league batters / Are left to die on the diamond.' I hesitate to call it Americana, that'd be to attribute symbolism to his lyrics, which isn't fitted. Like Hopper and Sinatra, he's a master of American solitude, but he's more mystical, and a lighter spirit. 'I need a crowd of people / But I can't face them day to day.' Gently straight.
Neil med den gode rock/singersongwriter mig
nice album. I really like the first two songs.
Really liked it, pop/jazz/rock album
Pretty good
I listened to this while hiking in the woods with my mom and dog. I felt like that was a good way to listen to the music because it was less distraction around me. I was able to hear the melodies that had a twang of melancholy but degrees of hopefulness. I did not grow up listening to Neil Young. In discovering this album, I discover parts of myself willingly and able to have new experiences.
Always up for a little Neil Young! This album a nice combination of Neil the Grunge Rocker as well as the folksy singer songwriter. Always with a message that's worth hearing, Neil Young is a great writer as well as a great guitarist.
Neil had a great run of albums around this time and this is one of his finest. It’s just not as good as ‘After The Gold Rush’.
I should’ve listened to this On The Beach.
A pleasant surprise!