Weld (album)

"Weld" is a live album by Neil Young and Crazy Horse, released in 1991, featuring performances from the tour promoting the Ragged Glory album. Initially released as a limited edition three-disc set called Arc-Weld, the Arc portion consisted of a single disc of a sound collage of guitar noise and feedback, which has since been made available separately.

The album showcases rock and roll songs by Young and Crazy Horse, including seven tracks that also appeared on Rust Never Sleeps or Live Rust from twelve years earlier. It reflects Young's return to straightforward rock after exploring different musical directions for a decade, celebrating this return with a live document and concert film.

Weld includes Young's "Gulf War" version of Bob Dylan's "Blowin' in the Wind," featuring air raid sound effects. The tour coincided with the Gulf War, influencing how the band performed and leading Young to adjust the setlist to include more violence-themed songs like "Cortez the Killer" and "Powderfinger." In a November 1991 interview, Young explained that the album captures the brutality of that time, aiming to create a sound reflective of violence and conflict. He emphasized the importance of connecting with audiences during such tumultuous times, prioritizing that over introducing new material.

The album was recorded by David Hewitt on Remote Recording Services' Silver Truck. Young later mentioned that he permanently damaged his hearing while mixing the album.

There was a brief release of the concert on VHS and Laserdisc, with a mix done by longtime collaborator David Briggs, which was described as a harder-edged and superior mix. This video was re-released for digital download in May 2009.