Official Release Series Discs 22, 23+, 24 & 25 - Neil Young Box Set

In this review of the Official Release Series Discs 22, 23+, 24 & 25 box set, the verdict is straightforward: this collection is for committed Neil Young fans and vinyl collectors who value sound quality and archival completeness. The set gathers Freedom (1989) and Ragged Glory (1990) in expanded forms across numbered CD and 180g vinyl pressings, making the biggest reason to buy the set the combination of heavyweight vinyl and well-regarded recordings that include live staples and rare bonus tracks.

Key Features

• Chronological re-issue: Collects official releases in a carefully sequenced set that fits into Reprise's broader archive project.
• 180g vinyl pressings: Heavyweight records improve playback consistency and deliver the dense, full-bodied sound listeners praise.
• Numbered initial pressings: Numbered CD and vinyl box sets add collectible appeal for serious fans and collectors.
• Expanded track lists: Ragged Glory is expanded with four rare tracks and Freedom includes its core hits and fan favorites, increasing archival value.
• Live and studio balance: The set mixes raw, powerful live staples like Rockin In The Free World with studio work, giving a rounded view of this period.

Who It's For

This box set is best for long-time Neil Young listeners, vinyl enthusiasts, and collectors who want a tactile, archival presentation of late 1980s and 1990s releases. Audiophiles who prioritize sound quality and vinyl fidelity will appreciate the 180g pressings and the positive feedback about the recordings.

Casual listeners or those on a tight budget should look elsewhere, since reactions to value for money are mixed and this set is targeted at collectors who value physical extras like numbering and bonus tracks over a simple digital playlist.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• High fidelity 180g vinyl delivers the rich, epic sound many customers praise.
• Numbered initial pressings and boxed presentation add collectible value.
• Expanded Ragged Glory and Freedom track lists include rare bonus material for fans.
• Recordings capture the raw power of Young and Crazy Horse in a way reviewers found authentic.

Cons

• Perceived value varies; some customers find the price high relative to content.
• The set is specialized and less useful for buyers who prefer digital convenience.

Specifications

Product	Official Release Series Discs 22, 23+, 24 & 25 box set
Included albums	Freedom (1989) and Ragged Glory (1990) with expanded material
Media	CDs and vinyl
Vinyl weight	180g
Initial pressings	Numbered box set
Ragged Glory expansion	4 rare tracks including single b-sides and a long outtake
Notable tracks	Rockin In The Free World, Wrecking Ball, No More, Too Far Gone

Our Verdict

For devoted Neil Young fans and vinyl collectors this boxed set is a worthwhile purchase thanks to heavyweight 180g vinyl, numbered pressings, and quality recordings that preserve the era's raw power; those seeking the lowest price or purely digital access should consider alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the vinyl pressings heavyweight?
Yes, the vinyl is pressed on 180g records for improved durability and sound.

Is the box set numbered?
Initial pressings of the CD and vinyl box sets are numbered, adding collectible value.

Does Ragged Glory include extra tracks?
Yes, the re-issue expands the original album with four rare tracks, including b-sides and a long previously unreleased take.