Re-ac-tor is Neil Young's eleventh studio album, released in November 1981. It was recorded primarily with his backing band Crazy Horse, and is characterized by a raw, minimalist sound, with prominent use of synthesizers and distorted guitars.
The album was recorded during a transitional period for Young, after a tour with Crazy Horse and before his foray into rockabilly and country. The song 'Surfer Joe and Moe the Sleaze' features improvised lyrics and an extended guitar solo, while 'Shots' presents a hypnotic rhythm and percussion effects.
Although it received mixed reviews upon release, Re-ac-tor has been reassessed over time as an experimental work and a precursor to noise rock. The album cover features a photograph of a nuclear reactor, referencing the title and the raw energy of the music.