a classic is nicely updated

4 Way Street (Atlantic)

Crosby, Stills, Nash& Young

By Bob Bahr

4 Way Street shows why Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young were so special: they successfully took folk music to large arenas without sacrificing intimacy and subtlety. Not only did they have the songs, they had the right spin on their performance.

4 Way Street was recorded in 1970 and released in 1971; this reissue features digital remastering of the original tapes and the addition of four songs. All the boys' voices are in fine shape, and the performances are infused with buoyancy and good humor. The instrumental accompaniment is impeccable. And while it's not an all-inclusive collection of CSN&Y hits, two discs are rarely filled with better music.

Disc 1 features the new additions to this classic recording, namely "King Midas in Reverse," "Laughing," "Black Queen" and a medley of "The Loner," "Cinnamon Girl" and "Down By the River." Excellent versions of "Don't Let It Bring You Down," "Chicago" and "On the Way Home" are also highlights.

Disc 2 is packed with some of the group's finest hits, including the great "Ohio," "Long Time Gone," Neil Young's "Southern Man" and the touching, short elegy "Find the Cost of Freedom." 4 Way Street is the perfect answer for CSN&Y fans who shunned greatest hits collections for their full albums. On this release, you get some of their best, and you get it live.