Neil Young Live In Sweden Review: The Chrome Hearts Kick Off European Tour with Mercurial Brilliance

By Mark Golley
Updated on June 19, 2025, at 3:52 PM

In an impressive start to their European tour, Neil Young and his new band, The Chrome Hearts, performed at the stunning Dalhalla venue in Rättvik, Sweden, on June 18, 2025. Set within a former limestone quarry, this unique location provided an extraordinary backdrop for an evening that would resonate with both longtime fans and fresh faces alike.

A Warm Welcome

As the night drew closer to the Swedish midsummer twilight, a sell-out crowd erupted into applause as the 79-year-old artist made his entrance. Clad in a grey plaid shirt, charcoal jeans, and a Casey Jones engineer hat, Young looked fit and ready, perhaps signaling his newfound vigor after a challenging period. The evening marked his first live show in Europe since the summer of 2019 and kicked off a 13-date tour, which includes headlining slots at prestigious events like Glastonbury and a performance in Hyde Park.

After a tour with Crazy Horse fell apart last year due to exhaustion, many wondered how Young would fare this time around. His return to the stage in Rättvik seemed to show that not only was he fit, but he still possesses a powerful stage presence that resonates deeply with his audience.

A Diverse Setlist

This performance was particularly notable as Young aimed to promote his new album, Talkin' To The Trees. Interestingly, the album’s tracks were absent from the setlist, showcasing a classic Neil Young decision to lean into a more eclectic mix. The show opened with the solo acoustic piece "Sugar Mountain," immediately invoking nostalgia for his earlier work. Young's swift transition into the electric anthem "Be The Rain," from the Greendale album, surprised many in attendance, highlighting his unpredictable set approach.

Young demonstrated remarkable energy throughout the performance, displaying a level of enthusiasm akin to much younger artists. Accompanied by The Chrome Hearts—featuring core members of Promise of the Real, alongside seasoned musician Spooner Oldham—each song was met with complete dedication and skill.

A Blending of Old and New

Despite the absence of any songs from Talkin’ To The Trees, Young delivered a powerful mix of songs from his extensive career. Classics like "Cinnamon Girl," "Hey Hey My My (Into The Black)," and "Old Man" were performed with a renewed intensity, signaling Young’s relentless drive to keep his music alive and relevant. The crowd was treated to a blend of cherished favorites alongside surprising deep cuts like "Looking Forward," which was performed live for the first time in 25 years.

While there had been speculation that Young's set would be marked by overt political commentary, he largely refrained from discussing contemporary issues, focusing instead on delivering music that speaks for itself. Notably, during a return to the Greendale album, he addressed themes of corruption with the song "Sun Green," although the political banter was minimal.

A Memorable Closing

After a vigorous 90-minute set, Young closed with the storied anthem "Rockin’ In the Free World." The encore was met with boisterous support from the crowd, culminating in a unifying moment with peace signs and raised fists. As the performance came to an end, it was clear that both the artist and his fans had engaged in something truly special.

As Neil Young embarks on this summer tour, the Dalhalla show served as a powerful reminder of his enduring talent. The evening combined nostalgia with freshness, leaving fans eager for what the rest of the tour will bring.

Set List from June 18, 2025:

  1. Sugar Mountain
  2. Be The Rain
  3. When You Dance I Can Really Love
  4. Cinnamon Girl
  5. Fuckin’ Up
  6. Hey Hey My My (Into The Black)
  7. The Needle And The Damage Done
  8. Harvest Moon
  9. Looking Forward
  10. Sun Green
  11. Love and Only Love
  12. Like A Hurricane
  13. Name Of Love
  14. Old Man

Encore:

  • Rockin’ In the Free World

In an era where many artists seem to fade with age, Neil Young continues to defy expectations, showcasing a unique blend of strength, vulnerability, and artistic brilliance. Fans left the venue with lasting memories and an appreciation for a rock icon who remains a formidable force in music.