Neil Young Second Song Review: Chrome Hearts Album Strikes Gold 2026

Neil Young and the Chrome Hearts' Second Song review reveals an album that is shaky yet occasionally strikes gold. Released in 2026, this is Young's second new album of the year, following the double live set As Time Explodes just three months earlier. At 80, Young's relentless work ethic continues to astound, but it also raises questions about quality versus quantity.

Neil Young's Relentless Work Ethic

Since 2020, Young has released nine new albums, a 30-minute EP, five self-directed films, three films directed by others, 10 archival live albums, six archival studio albums, and two immense box sets. He has toured with Crazy Horse, the Chrome Hearts, and solo. He has also waged public battles with Spotify, Amazon, Ticketmaster, and briefly the BBC over Glastonbury coverage, while penning countless op-eds for his online newspaper, the Times-Contrarian.

When he recently cancelled a European tour citing exhaustion, it was hard not to think: well, I'm not surprised. You do find yourself wondering if his workload is such a good thing—not just for an elderly gentleman's health but also for the quality of his output.

Second Song: A Track-by-Track Impression

Young has always prized spontaneity over finesse, but some of his more recent releases have suggested that at least a soupçon of finesse might not go amiss. Last year's Talkin to the Trees, however, seemed to cross the line that separates the instinctive from the dashed off. Young frequently sounded as if he was simply going through the motions.

Second Song with the Chrome Hearts fares better. The album opens with the ragged glory of "Broken Arrow," a track that recalls Young's early work with Buffalo Springfield. The title track, "Second Song," is a meandering ballad that builds to a satisfying crescendo. "Chrome Heart" is a gritty rocker that showcases the band's chemistry. But tracks like "Driftin'" and "Lost in the Static" feel unfinished, as if they were recorded in a single take without a second thought.

Key Takeaways from Second Song

• Spontaneity vs. polish: The album thrives on raw energy but suffers from inconsistent songwriting.
• Chrome Hearts' contribution: The backing band adds a fresh dynamic, especially on rockers.
• Best tracks: "Broken Arrow," "Second Song," and "Chrome Heart" stand out.
• Weak spots: "Driftin'" and "Lost in the Static" feel like filler.
• Overall: A mixed bag that will please diehard fans but may not convert new listeners.

How Second Song Compares to Recent Neil Young Albums

Is Second Song Worth Your Time?

For longtime fans, Second Song offers enough moments of brilliance to justify a listen. The Chrome Hearts bring a vitality that was missing from some of Young's recent solo efforts. But the album also feels rushed, as if Young was eager to move on to the next project. At 80, he shows no signs of slowing down, but perhaps a bit more reflection between releases would serve him well.

Ultimately, Second Song is a testament to Young's enduring spirit. It may not be his best work, but it's far from his worst. And in a career spanning over five decades, that's saying something.

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