Neil Young enthusiasts will be thrilled by the upcoming release of his long-lost 1977 album, Oceanside Countryside. This album, recorded over several sessions in Florida, Malibu, and Nashville, showcases Young's versatility as he sings and plays most of the instruments on the Oceanside side. The Countryside side features collaborations with notable musicians like Ben Keith and Joe Osborn, adding depth to the original tracks.
Distinct from the similarly named CD4 of last year's Archives Vol III, Oceanside Countryside presents unique versions of several songs. While tracks like "Lost in Space," "Captain Kennedy," and "The Old Homestead" share similarities with those on Hawks and Doves (1980), others such as "Field of Opportunity" and "Dance Dance Dance" highlight different production elements, including Young's backing vocals replacing Nicolette Larson's.
Emphasizing the authenticity of these recordings, Young has stated that the album features the original mixes from the time of its creation. The meticulous mastering by Chris Bellman at Bernie Grundman Mastering ensures that audiophiles will appreciate the high-fidelity sound quality, whether experienced on vinyl or the forthcoming CD version.
Scheduled for release on March 7, 2025, through Reprise Records, Oceanside Countryside is part of Neil Young's Analog Originals Series (AOS). Vinyl enthusiasts can look forward to a clear vinyl edition available at selected retailers, while the CD version is set to follow in April. This release not only enriches Young's extensive discography but also offers a nostalgic glimpse into his creative process during the late 1970s.