On a cool spring evening, the nearly sold-out crowd at the Xfinity Center in Mansfield, MA, witnessed a legendary performance by Neil Young and Crazy Horse. BY GARY ALPERT Mansfield, MA – May 17, 2024
At 78, Neil Young continues to defy time, delivering an electrifying show alongside his stalwart bandmates, 80-year-old bassist Billy Talbot and drummer Ralph Molina. The trio’s enduring chemistry and raw energy were on full display, proving that rock and roll knows no age.
The set kicked off with the epic “Cortez the Killer,” immediately captivating the audience with its hauntingly beautiful melodies and powerful solos. “Cinnamon Girl” followed, its infectious riff getting everyone on their feet. The rebellious anthem “Fuckin’ Up” saw Young at his most impassioned, his voice as gritty and authentic as ever.
See the full gallery of photos from this night by Gary Alpert here.
A surprise highlight of the night was “Barstool Blues,” performed live for the first time since 2014. The deep cut resonated deeply, reminding fans of the vastness of Young’s catalog and his willingness to explore it. “Mansion on the Hill” and “Powderfinger” kept the momentum going, their stories vividly painted through Young’s evocative lyrics and the band’s tight performance.
The acoustic segment of the concert was a poignant shift, with Young alone on stage, his weathered voice carrying the weight of decades. “Comes a Time,” “Heart of Gold,” and “Human Highway” showcased his timeless songwriting, creating an intimate atmosphere that contrasted beautifully with the high-energy rockers.
Returning to full band mode, “Hey Hey, My My” reignited the crowd’s fervor, its raw power a testament to the enduring relevance of Young’s music. The encore was nothing short of spectacular. “Down by the River” extended into a jam that highlighted the extraordinary synergy between Young, Talbot, and Molina, while “Like a Hurricane” closed the night with its signature intensity, leaving the audience in awe.
Throughout the evening, Neil Young and Crazy Horse demonstrated that they are still a formidable force in rock music. The performance at the Xfinity Center was not just a concert; it was a testament to the enduring power of music and the indomitable spirit of these rock legends. As the final notes of “Like a Hurricane” echoed through the venue, it was clear that the legacy of Neil Young and Crazy Horse is as vital as ever.
SETLIST:
Cortez the Killer
Cinnamon Girl
Fuckin’ Up
Scattered (Let’s Think About Livin’)
I’m the Ocean
Roll Another Number (For the Road)
Barstool Blues
(first time played since 2014)
Mansion on the Hill
Powderfinger
Love and Only Love
Comes a Time (Neil solo acoustic)
Heart of Gold (Neil solo acoustic)
Human Highway (Neil solo acoustic)
Hey Hey, My My (Into the Black)
Encore:
Down by the River
Like a Hurricane
Gary Alpert
Deafboy Photography
insta: @deafboyphotography
See the full gallery of photos from this night by Gary Alpert here.
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