Neil Young’s ‘Talkin to the Trees’ showcases his signature political anthems
Neil Young, at the age of 79, continues to stay true to his musical roots with his latest album, ‘Talkin to the Trees.’ Known for his grungy hard rock albums with Crazy Horse and his folkie-countryish albums like ‘Harvest,’ he combines both these influences in his latest work. Drawing inspiration from Woody Guthrie’s “This Land is Your Land,” Young presents a mix of political anthems and personal reflections in this album.
The song “Silver Eagle” pays homage to Young’s journey across the country in his tour bus, reminiscent of Guthrie’s style. In contrast, “Let’s Roll Again” takes a harder, more assertive tone, urging the United States to keep up with China in the electric vehicle market. This track delivers a strong message, calling out individuals with the line, “If you’re a fascist, you can buy a Tesla,” showcasing Young’s bold approach to addressing political issues.
Young has always been vocal about his political views, dating back to the release of “Ohio” following the Kent State University shootings in 1970. He continued to express his opinions through music, notably with the protest album ‘Living with War’ during the Iraq War era. The song “Big Change” from his latest album echoes his past sentiments, hinting at imminent changes that could have both positive and negative outcomes. However, an additional track, “Big Crime,” takes a more direct approach, denouncing corruption in the government and calling for action from listeners.
On the more introspective side, the album opens with “Family Life” and “Dark Mirage,” delving into Young’s personal struggles, particularly his estrangement from his daughter and grandchildren. Despite these emotional tracks, the album closes on a positive note with “Thankful,” a heartfelt expression of gratitude that showcases Young’s ability to transition from political commentary to personal introspection seamlessly.
‘Talkin to the Trees’ captures the essence of Neil Young’s musical journey, blending his signature styles with poignant lyrics and melodies. It reflects his unwavering commitment to using music as a platform for addressing social and political issues while also delving into personal experiences and emotions. As Young stays true to his roots, this album serves as a testament to his enduring presence in the music industry and his ability to resonate with audiences across generations.