Letter Home [Bonus Tracks] [CD]

I've gained more respect for Neil Young as a musician, and every so often a veteran of the music world likes to look back at an earlier period of his/her life or career. Neil basically covers songs he listened to when he was much younger (no pun meant), and employs a setup that sounds like older, crackly sound recordings. The first song is not as loud as the subsequent recordings. Maybe the microphone was set too far away. Otherwise, the music is enjoyable and easy to listen to, and there's a couple Young narrated letter sequences that are alternately nostalgic and odd/warped. For what's offered, a better deal at $10 and below, and recommended more to Young fans. Those new to Neil Young would be better off listening to his early recordings from the late 1960s and early 1970s.

Neil Young has always done what interests him the most at any given point in time. 'A Letter Home', his latest album, was recorded at Jack White's Third Man Records in Nashville on a restored recording booth. The sound is consistent with that type of equipment and may turn off some listeners. I found it to be intriguing upon repeated plays. Young's vocals take over and the strength of the songs makes for an album that will be listened to repeatedly in the future. Song highlights include Ivory Joe Hunter's 'Since I Met You Baby', and Don Everly's 'I Wonder If I Care As Much'. Give this album a listen-you won't be disappointed.

The album was recorded in Jack White's refurbished 1947 vinyl recording booth. Many have compared the sound quality to the Alan Lomax folk, blues recordings. This seems to be a fair comparison. In other words, some people may be turned off by the lo-fi, mono sound quality. As for Neil's performances, at times he seems truly inspired. Others, he seems to be rushing in order to finish the song in the technology's allotted, limited, time. Overall I enjoy the record.

I don't feel that price equaled quality -- sounded like some old outtakes recorded in a porto-potty -- I am a long-time fan but as they used to say on American Bandstand ( for those of you oldies ) " it had a lousy beat, you couldn't dance to it, and I give it a 65 -- I appreciate his attempt at trying something new, but for someone like Neil who is always seeking the nirvana of sound quality, the boat left the pier without him.

Great album by Old Neil with a few classic and remakes with an old sound by the way it was recording in the classic sound booth that Neil uses. Also a nice tribute and dedication to his Mother as well which could be used for anyone's Mom for a nice gift or present. Good idea by Neil Young. Its not for everyone, different but very interesting concept.

If you are looking for a true raw vinyl sound that has been lost in modern music you will find it with this album. It sounds just like it would on the vinyl album, which can be grainy and pop from time to time. However, if you are looking for nostalgic folk sound this is the album for you.

While this is an interesting idea, the execution is what makes it fall short of being a must buy or even remember to pick it up later item. If you love the crackle of old 45s...this is for you. The songs are all nice and well performed, but the sound is what will keep people away.

Really like everything Neil Young does. This one is very different. Classic songs forties sounding. Like the song selection but wish it was done normally. Neil Young is always trying new things and this one is not one of his best but it still Niel Young.