Neil Young
Eldorado (EP)

This is the only EP in the vast Youngian discography.

It is a very interesting document of the resurrection after years (deliberately) out of focus. It all starts with yet another reunion with CSN&Y, this time incredibly sponsored by Neil himself, who had opposed it for years. The scandalous album was 'American Dream', released in 1988, the year before this. On that occasion, Our Man thought of recreating the old atmospheres of the golden years with something that would clash with the sunny style of folk rock of CSN&Y. Thus, 'Eldorado' was born, which is almost a rarity as it was published only in Japan and Australia, because, as the mocking Neil said: "I'm back, but you'll have to find me".

The record (played with Chad Cromwell and Rick Rosas, credited as the Restless) has only five songs, three of which would appear a few months later (in slightly modified versions at the insistence of producers Niko Bolas and Poncho Sampedro) on 'Freedom', the official "renaissance" album. Don't Cry is a minute longer than on 'Freedom', making it even more intense. The title-track is less relaxed, enlivened by the inclusion of an electric guitar that will be absent in the new version. The same goes for On Broadway, which has a raised volume for distortions. In short, nothing too significant in these differences, but some might find them more appealing. Cocaine Eyes and Hard Love can only be found on this EP.

The first one is a direct jab, like a stab at friend-rival Stephen Stills for his "conditions" during the making of 'American Dream'. The track starts with a guitar testing where you can slightly hear some voices. The recording technician is not satisfied with the usual feedback opening, but Young tells him: "Yeah, but that sounds good, though". Furthermore, the riff is reminiscent of Rockin In The Free World. The second one features heavy drumming, sharp guitar, and explosions but, like the previous one, with a well-constructed melody, both in my opinion will be the seminal germ at the base of 'Ragged Glory'. A fair criticism made by some is that it was not worth spending a lot of money for only two unreleased tracks... fortunately, there are other ways to obtain this EP... Certainly, 'Eldorado' is one of the most violent works in the Canadian's career, a regenerating jolt for the lone cowboy who, when he seems done for, is ready to surprise you again...!

PS: Curious anecdote. When Graham Nash heard a preview performance of Eldorado, his judgment was "I absolutely hate this record!". It is said that Young was thrilled with this reaction...