Neil Diamond - Home Before Dark (Deluxe Edition)

Home Before Dark is the long awaited new album from legendary artist Neil Diamond. Home Before Dark was produced by legendary producer Rick Rubin who also produced Neil's critically acclaimed 12 Songs. Product Description

 ONE WORD - AWESOME!!
I read Neil's comments pertaining to the 'fear and concern' regarding each new release and each new song he writes/composes. I really hate this is a concern---you are truly blessed and given a gift from God in what you do. If you write/compose from your heart (and, I know you do by the words you write and the passion in your voice when you sing the words)that is all that matters. Neil Diamond keeps the passion in his music and it spills over into the lives of those who listen to his music. I've been married almost 38 years and we started our lives together with his music and it still 'stirs' us at this stage of our lives. How blessed you are to spend your life living your passion and using your passion all of your life. I personally thank you, Neil Diamond, for all you have given us and the world and I pray you continue to give us your music. Also, personally, because I really care about you - I wish I could help remove the 'fear/concern' from your mind about whether or not your music will be accepted by your fans. If they loved you in the past - they will continue to love your music - because it is from your heart.

Sheila Goings
Houston,Texas May 9, 2008

 Home Before Dark Is Pretty Amazing!
This is one of the most anticipated work in Neil's career. And he did not disappoint this lifelong fan. I cannot choose a favorite track from this CD yet. They're all so good! I never cared for the Dixie Chicks, but Natalie Maines' voice blends so well with Neil's in "Another Day (That Time Forgot)," I wouldn't be surprised if this one is the hit off the CD. Radio stations: PLAY THIS SONG!!! I love "Pretty Amazing Grace." I catch myself singing it to myself all the time! This work brings Neil full circle, plainly. Let it begin and begin again!

Don't stop the ride! I'm having a blast! May 9, 2008

 Pretty Amazing Neil
5 stars for Home Before Dark. This work is Neil Diamond at his best - poetically, introspectively, and vocally in my humble opinion. The music is mainly guitar and piano and is effective for these melodies and lyrics. The songs are different from his more famous oldies in that they don't rock. They differ from his 1980's and 90's ballads in that the tracks are quite long and each one tells the story of a feeling, honestly and thoroughly. They remind me a lot of his song-writing in the 70's and early 80's, when he got lost in thought and expressed it musically. I love this CD and am delighted with the two extra tracks and the DVD. May 9, 2008

 NEEDS MORE
12 songs deserved between 4 and 5 stars because it was a return to form. After years of songs and albums that were too polished at times, it was nice to hear Neil return to his simple songwriting days.
Home Before Dark on the other hand sounds like leftovers from that album. The songs are at times too long with no significant change between chorus and verse. And a lot of them begin to sound alike. I know Rick Rubin and Neil were going for a specific quality and feel, but I think that some edits were required too.
There are some bright spots though. I really like Pretty Amazing Grace, Forgotten, The Power of Two and Home Before Dark.
That's why it pains me to write a somewhat negative review of this album, but I think that it is time for Neil to return to the production and songwriting of Tennessee Moon and Three Chord Opera. Those albums presented Mr. Diamond in a contemporary way while also holding on to his roots. We have to remember that Neil is not only a songwriter but also an entertainer. I wasn't that entertained with this album. May 9, 2008

 Oustanding CD!
I have to say this CD could only have been written by a well seasoned artist like Neil Diamond. The words reflect the angst of a lifetime, yet each song has it's own catchy hook. The music just flows from song to song. Neil is a master craftsman and one of the best songwriters of all time.

This is an outstanding CD from an outstanding artist. May 9, 2008

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