How do you make a sequel to an album that doesn't exist?

Don't ask us, ask Neil Young. Then again, don't. It'll probably just give you a headache.

Near as we can gather, the story goes like this: The first Chrome Dreams -- whose track list included Powderfinger, Like a Hurricane and Look Out for My Love -- was due in 1977. But after deciding it was too stylistically varied, Neil scrapped it, recycled some songs, and turned to the genre exercises and concept albums that dominate his catalog.

Fast-forward to this year, when Young found himself with another disparate set of songs: Some were electric. Some were acoustic. Some were short. Some were long. Most were new. A few dated back to the '80s. One was a long-lost classic. Nearly all of them are about spiritual quests and romantic journeys. It all reminded Neil of the loose, anything-goes approach of his Chrome Dreams days. And thus Chrome Dreams II was born.

Or something like that. Like we said, you want the real story, go ask Neil.

We'd rather sit here and go through the album one track at a time.

Beautiful Bluebird 4:27

Most artists put the catchiest album cut up front. Neil gives us the oldest one. First recorded for the original version of 1985's Old Ways -- which was shelved by Young's label at the time -- this folk ballad is a wistful analogy for love that's flown the coop.

Boxcar 2:44

Continuing his journey through the past, Young resurrects this mellow country-rocker originally cut for the aborted Times Square disc in the late '80s. The thumpy beat, twangy licks, backup vocals and spiritual lyrics suggest an Aboriginal influence.

Ordinary People 18:13

Yes, it's 18 minutes long. And it's a monster -- a plodding epic with umpteen verses, a horn section and searing solos. Originally cut from 1988's This Note's For You, this stands next to timeless works like Cortez the Killer. Extraordinary -- and well worth the price of the disc on its own.

Shining Light 4:33

Even the new tunes here sound old. For instance, this country waltz has a Roy Orbison feel to it -- and some pedal steel and organ lines around the edges that give it a nice, warm glow.

The Believer 2:39

Some doowoppy backup vocals from the boys in the band add a nostalgic element to this gentle romantic pop ballad.

Spirit Road 6:32

One of Young's trudging, Crazy Horse-style crunch-rockers, complete with piercing solos. There's not a lot to it -- but then, in Neil's hands, less always turns out to be more.

Dirty Old Man 3:17

So much for aging gracefully. On this stompy roots-rocker, Young dumbs it down and lightens the mood, while the band balances the scales by cranking it up and getting heavier.

Ever After 3:32

Another gorgeously laid-back country waltz, featuring some stellar contributions from steel guitar virtuoso Ben Keith.

No Hidden Path 14:30

One good Young epic deserves another. And this rumbling, slightly funky slow-burner is about as good as it gets -- though at a mere 14 minutes, it seems slight next to Ordinary People.

The Way 5:15

Supported by the Young People's Chorus of New York City, Young tucks you in with a soothing waltz decorated with twinkling piano. Sweet Chrome Dreams are made of this.