Crosby, Stills, and Nash Crosby, Stills & Nash CD

It was big news in 1969 when former key members of the Byrds, Buffalo Springfield, and the Hollies--three of the finest bands of the '60s--splintered off to form their own trio. Despite their already-proven talents, few could have imagined the gossamer vocal blend that would become the trademark of supergroup Crosby, Stills & Nash. The band's debut effectively provided the soundtrack to the summer of '69.

For his part, Steve Stills keeps exploring the progressive folk-rock sound that he'd pioneered with Buffalo Springfield; signature tune "Suite: Judy Blue Eyes" is an expansive, multi-section affair that makes full use of the group's vocal skills. Fresh from the Hollies, Graham Nash adds an accessible pop sensibility, epitomized by the effervescent ditty "Marrakesh Express." David Crosby, always the wild card in the Byrds, here adds rough edges and flashes of mystery with his cutting protest rocker "Long Time Gone" and the exquisite art-folk of "Guinnevere." With this kind of firepower under its belt, it's no wonder CSN quickly became one of the biggest groups of their era.

One of the most enduring musical partnerships of our time, Rock and Roll Hall of Famers Crosby, Stills & Nash are revered for their peerless vocal harmonies, inspired songwriting and musical virtuosity. When the trio first sang together at a friend's Laurel Canyon house in 1968, their uncanny harmonic convergence was immediately apparent, and CSN took shape. Each member came to the new venture from other high-profile bands-Crosby from the Byrds, Stills from Buffalo Springfield, and Nash from the Hollies-and together, they formed that rarest of musical entities, a "supergroup" that lived up to its billing. CSN's 1969 self-titled debut album is one of the true masterpieces of the rock 'n' roll canon, and 1982's Daylight Again is a brilliant portrait of their musical evolution. Still touring and recording together, CSN is an American treasure

Personnel: Stephen Stills (vocals, guitar, acoustic guitar, electric guitar, piano, organ, percussion); Graham Nash (vocals, guitar, acoustic guitar, piano, organ, background vocals); David Crosby (vocals, acoustic guitar, background vocals); Dallas Taylor (drums).

Audio Remasterer: Joe Gastwirt.

Liner Note Author: Raymond Foye.

Recording information: Record Plant, New York, NY (06/26/1968-04/03/1990); United Studio B, Hollywood, CA (06/26/1968-04/03/1990); Wall (06/26/1968-04/03/1990); Wally Heiders Studio III, Los Angeles, CA (06/26/1968-04/03/1990); Wally Heider's Studio III, Los Angeles, CA (06/26/1968-04/03/1990).

Director: David Geffen.

Photographer: Henry Diltz.

Personnel: David Crosby (vocals, guitar); Stephen Stills (vocals, guitar, organ, bass); Graham Nash (vocals).

Additional personnel: Dallas Taylor (drums).

Rolling Stone (7/26/69, p.36) - "This is an eminently playable record....The vocals are warm and full...with rich, complementary harmonies....Tasteful backing accompanies the superb compositions....the result is an especially satisfying work..."
Rolling Stone (7/26/69, p.36) - "This is an eminently playable record....The vocals are warm and full...with rich, complementary harmonies....Tasteful backing accompanies the superb compositions....and the result is an especially satisfying work..."
Uncut (p.110) - 4 stars out of 5 -- "CSN defined themselves by chilling out and laying back, turning down the volume on the Byrds/Springfield amplifiers. In place of electric fizz and crackle came softer tones, richer layering."
Dirty Linen (p.56) - "CSN showcased tight harmonies and innovative songwriting..."
Mojo (Publisher) (p.114) - 4 stars out of 5 -- "Every song was masterfully crafted and performed, some of the most valuable work its three principals would ever produce..."