Neil Young & The Chrome Hearts Set the Capitol Theatre on Fire with a Wild Mix of Soulful Acoustics and Face-Melting Jams
Neil Young and The Chrome Hearts made a thunderous debut as headliners at the Capitol Theatre in Port Chester, New York. Fresh off their Farm Aid performance, the band delivered a dynamic 14-song set that balanced acoustic gems like Comes a Time and Journey Through the Past with electrifying, jam-heavy renditions of Powderfinger and Big Time.
The standout moment came with a 13-minute version of Down by the River, featuring a thrilling guitar duel between Young and Micah Nelson. The band—rounded out by organist Spooner Oldham, drummer Anthony LoGerfo, and bassist Corey McCormick—proved their versatility, effortlessly adapting to Young’s every move.
A strong focus on Harvest Moon material hinted at Young’s deep dive into his ’90s vault, while Nelson’s mastery of pedal steel guitar filled the void left by the late Ben Keith. When Young unleashed his legendary Old Black, Nelson stepped up, channeling the spirit of Crazy Horse icons Danny Whitten and Poncho Sampedro.
Originally formed for a handful of benefit shows, The Chrome Hearts now seem poised to become Young’s new go-to band, especially as Crazy Horse’s future remains uncertain. If this performance was any indication, they’re more than ready to carry Young’s legacy forward.
