"Northern Lights – Southern Cross" is the sixth studio album by the Canadian-American rock group the Band, released in 1975. This album marked several significant milestones for the band. It was the first album recorded at their new studio, Shangri-La, located in California. Additionally, it was their first album of all-new material since 1971's "Cahoots."
The recording process for "Northern Lights – Southern Cross" utilized a 24-track tape recorder, which allowed band member Garth Hudson to create intricate layers of keyboards on several tracks. Notably, this is also the only Band album where all the songs are credited solely to guitarist Robbie Robertson as compositions.
Several tracks from the album, including "It Makes No Difference," "Ophelia," and "Acadian Driftwood," were performed live at The Last Waltz in 1976, the Band's celebrated farewell concert. "It Makes No Difference" and "Ophelia" were featured in Martin Scorsese's documentary film of the concert and on the original soundtrack album released in 1978. "Acadian Driftwood" was included in the extended re-release of the soundtrack in 2002. These songs have endured through subsequent covers and revivals.
Critically, "Northern Lights – Southern Cross" received positive reviews. Rolling Stone praised the album, stating that the Band had achieved a significant musical success. However, some critics, like Robert Christgau, found the lyrics sentimental but appreciated the melodies. John Bauldie in Q Magazine noted the album's glossy production and lamented the shift away from the close-knit group dynamics that characterized the Band's earlier works.
Overall, "Northern Lights – Southern Cross" remains a testament to the Band's musical prowess and their ability to evolve while maintaining their signature sound and lyrical storytelling.
