Iconic Canadian-American singer-songwriter Neil Young has just released “Oceanside Countryside,” an album recorded in 1977 but shelved until now. This release marks the latest entry into Young’s Analog Original Series (AOS) and provides fans with a treasure from his vast archives.
“Oceanside Countryside” was initially recorded between May and December of 1977, shortly before the release of his 1978 album “Comes A Time.” The album shares a similar country/folk vibe, with three songs (“Goin’ Back,” “Human Highway,” and “Field of Opportunity”) appearing on both projects. However, this “lost” album features unique versions of songs, some of which differ from those later released.
The album is split into two distinct sides: “Oceanside,” where Young performs solo, capturing intimate acoustic performances recorded in Florida at Triad studios and in Malibu at Indigo studio. “Countryside” brings in a band of friends including Ben Keith on steel guitar, Rufus Thibodeaux on fiddle, Karl T. Himmel on drums, and Joe Osborn on bass, recorded at Crazy Mama’s in Nashville. This side offers a fuller, more collaborative sound.
Young himself has commented on the release, expressing that listening to it now, he believes it should have been released back in the late ’70s. The album comes with the original mixes from the time of recording, preserved on tape, offering listeners a pure, unaltered sound from that era.
“Oceanside Countryside” is available in multiple formats, with a special emphasis on vinyl, as part of Young’s commitment to analog recordings. There’s a standard black vinyl edition and a limited clear vinyl version available exclusively through the Greedy Hand Store and select indie retail outlets. Digital versions, including Atmos mixes, are also accessible through the Neil Young Archives Download Store and various digital retailers.
The announcement of “Oceanside Countryside” has sparked excitement among Neil Young enthusiasts and music historians alike, eager to hear this previously unreleased material. The album adds another layer to understanding Young’s prolific output in the late ’70s, a period already rich with some of his most beloved work.
This release not only brings new music to fans but also underscores Neil Young’s ongoing effort to share his extensive back catalog, ensuring his musical legacy continues to unfold for new generations to explore.
OCEANSIDE COUNTRYSIDE TRACKLIST
Oceanside
- Sail Away
- Lost in Space
- Captain Kennedy
- Goin’ Back
- Human Highway
Countryside
- Field of Opportunity
- Dance Dance Dance
- The Old Homestead
- It Might Have Been
- Pocahontas
