Neil Young and The Chrome Hearts erupted onto the stage at the Capitol Theatre in Port Chester, New York, marking their highly anticipated debut as headliners. Hot off their performance at Farm Aid, the band delivered a spectacular 14-song set that masterfully blended soulful acoustic classics like “Comes a Time” and “Journey Through the Past” with raucous, jam-infused renditions of “Powderfinger” and “Big Time.”
The night’s most electrifying moment came with an epic 13-minute version of “Down by the River,” where Young and Micah Nelson engaged in a fiery, face-melting guitar duel that left the audience in awe. The band—featuring the incomparable organist Spooner Oldham, drummer Anthony LoGerfo, and bassist Corey McCormick—showcased an unmatched ability to adapt and flow with Young’s every creative impulse, making the performance feel both spontaneous and seamlessly tight.
A special emphasis on Harvest Moon material teased a deeper dive into Young’s ’90s catalog, while Nelson’s masterful pedal steel guitar added a nostalgic yet fresh touch, filling the space left by the late, great Ben Keith. When Young picked up his legendary Old Black, Nelson’s playing channeled the spirit of Crazy Horse’s iconic figures like Danny Whitten and Poncho Sampedro.
What began as a side project for a few benefit shows has quickly evolved into something much larger. The Chrome Hearts now seem poised to take on the mantle as Young’s new primary band, especially with Crazy Horse’s future uncertain. If their debut performance was any indication, this powerhouse group is more than ready to carry Young’s storied legacy into the future—bringing new life and energy to his already legendary catalog.
