After ending a 36-year marriage, it would be uncharacteristic of Neil Young not to ruminate-at least metaphorically-on the way his life has changed. It’s not surprising that the subject of love both old and new dominates the lyrics in Storytone. It’s a tough job writing anthems, and sadly, “Who’s Gonna Stand Up” for all of its noble sentiments is grounded in clichés that all of the sincerity in the world can’t leap over and turn into art. As far as writing topical material goes, the often maligned Living With War from 2006 featured lyrics that are far more abrasive, topical and biting than anything he’s serving up here. Again, it’s not a case of intention or subject matter who could disagree with the sentiments expressed on songs like “Who’s Gonna Stand Up?” Still, I couldn’t rid myself of the nagging feeling that “Natural Beauty” from Harvest Moon and “Rockin’ in the Free World” from Freedom are both better songs that cover similar ground. The problem with Storytone lies within the songs themselves. Nearly 50 years into his professional career, his voice is still a pure instrument, ethereal, direct and emotionally precise. I’ll be the first to admit that Neil Young’s vocals are astonishing as he breathes life into every phrase he sings on Storytone’s two discs. If that sounds harsh, it’s not intended to be. Like some other Neil Young albums, it presents a conundrum of brilliant moments juxtaposed with toss-offs that are almost completely devoid of any real musical interest. ![]() And, it’s disappointing to admit that for all its sincerity and clear-headed delivery, Storytone doesn’t sound all that remarkable. ![]() But, this is an album review of Storytone and not an assessment of his overall artistic contribution to popular music. If I were writing to recommend him for The Order Of Canada, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, hell, even for a Nobel Prize, I’d have no trouble composing something. There aren’t many topics from pot to the pipeline on which we disagree. His songs have enriched my life more than I could say. I have loved and admired Neil Young’s music for more than 40 years. I am a sentimental person, and sometimes this clouds my judgment.
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