Before and After is a studio album by Neil Young released on December 6, 2024. It is a unique project in his career, consisting of a single continuous 48-minute track that weaves together fragments of new songs and re-recorded versions of old ones, creating a seamless listening experience.
The album was recorded in 2023 at Young's personal studio, with him playing all instruments and singing. The production was handled by Neil Young himself, and the sound design aims to evoke a sense of intimacy and reflection, as if the listener were present at a private session. The songs include reinterpretations of classics like 'Heart of Gold' and 'Old Man,' along with new compositions.
Before and After was received with praise for its innovative approach and sound quality, although some critics considered it more of an experiment than a conventional album. Young described the project as a musical journey connecting his past and present, and it was released on digital platforms and a special high-fidelity vinyl edition.