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..."
TWO WORDS A MASTERPIECE Submitted by JFJOEL1 (JERICHO, NY USA) Was This Review Helpful? YesNo 3 of 4 found this helpful.
The strongest beginning a group could ever have. No one expected the creative explosion that came from this trio, even though its members came from some of the most influential bands of the period. Things were starting to show cracks in the happy ideals, and it reflected in the splits of many of the groups of the era. This record puts all of that behind it, and instead nostalgically reflects one of the most culturally reflective periods of our nation's history. The harmonies were Beach Boys quality, while keeping an adult and hipster edge to them. Each member provides amazing songwriting for the group, with a diversity of styles and lyrics that is simply amazing. It is a product of its time, though, so there are a couple left turns, but they are easily forgivable. No one expected this. No one will forget it either. Submitted by Galen (Anchorage, Alaska) Was This Review Helpful? YesNo 2 of 3 found this helpful.
Standing The Test of Time What is the biggest difference from the music of today and this, The test of time. Originally recorded in 1969, Crosby, Stills and Nash is what music is all about. Excellent lyrics, instrumentation and vocals with, yes, harmonies. A rare thing in recent music. I still enjoy listening to this as well as my children. CSN is one to have, if not for you, your children. Submitted by Bassmagnum (Long Beach, Calif. USA) Was This Review Helpful? YesNo 1 of 2 found this helpful.
Vaer good First of all i would like to say that this is probably one of the best records of all time! If you like good music this is a record to buy! Probably better than anything that is released today, and that is not just an opinion, that is the truht actually! I don`t think it is possible for any new rock or pop-artist to come up anything that`s as good as this classic record! Submitted by Heynow! (Sweden) Was This Review Helpful? YesNo
A Rock Ballad Classic Superb album, tight harmonies and thoughful lyrics combined with some of the best compositions of the time. The group at their best. Submitted by a reviewer (Irvine, CA) Was This Review Helpful? YesNo 1 of 3 found this helpful.
Vaer good
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