Crowded House

Amazon.com
After gradually assuming a front-and-center role in brother Tim's band Split Enz, native New Zealander and transplanted Australian Neil Finn moved firmly into a leadership position with Crowded House, a trio whose debut album appeared in 1986. Slightly more mainstream than his new-wavy Split Enz work, the record nonetheless evinced signs of darkness ("Don't Dream It's Over," "World Where You Live," "Hole in the River") among more chipper numbers such as "Something So Strong." Often gorgeous, Crowded House proved to be the group's biggest release in America, which didn't seem to have a radio home for them after the success of "Don't Dream" and "Something." They disbanded in 1996. --Rickey Wright

Crowded House,Crowded House,Capitol,Pop,Popular Music,Rock,Rock/Pop

Crowded House

Average customer rating:

Something is missing
Make time for Time On Earth.
If There is Hell on Earth - There Must Be a Heaven Too
Crowded House returns...
Finn with Crowdie Flavor

Time on Earth
Crowded House
Manufacturer: Ato Records / Red
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Farewell to the World
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ASIN: B000Q9OD7G
Release Date: 2007-07-10

Tracks:

Nobody Wants To
Don't Stop Now
She Called Up
Say That Again
Pour Le Monde
Even A Child
Heaven That I'm Making
A Sigh
Silent House
English Trees
Walked Her Way Down
Transit Lounge
You Are The One To Make Me Cry
People Are Like Suns

Amazon.com

Fourteen years, a live CD/DVD, some solo albums, and one tragic suicide after Crowded House's last release comes this highly anticipated reunion. Singer/songwriter Neil Finn and bassist Nick Seymour reunited after the 2005 death of drummer Paul Hester, brought in a new member and two producers (Ethan Johns and Steve Lillywhite) to replace longtime cohort Mitchell Froom, and the impressive result is a logical and overdue addition to the band's previous four albums. Finn's knack for a melodic ballad remains firmly in place as Time on Earth coasts on his dreamy voice and introspective, hook-laden pop choruses. However, this is a more reflective collection that requires a few spins to fully reveal its charms. Finn co-writes "Even a Child" with Smiths guitarist Johnny Marr, and that and the frisky "She Called Up" are the most buoyant tracks on this predominantly pensive disc. Finn has generally shaded towards a darker edge and this hour-long set might have benefited from more of the lighter touch he applies to "Transit Lounge," a song enhanced by Beth Rowley's lovely and startling wordless vocals along with jazzy electric piano and even airport sound effects. Strings, sitar, and intricate production add subtle elements that bolster the timeless musical qualities Finn has always reveled in. The ominous, even brooding "Silent House," a co-write with all three Dixie Chicks, is another highlight that sounds like nothing either has done before as it floats along on fuzz guitar and hurdy-gurdy, both courtesy of Johns. Trimming some weaker cuts would have made this a more focused listen, but Time on Earth is a worthy successor to Crowded House's existing catalog--a high compliment indeed. --Hal Horowitz

Customer Reviews:

Something is missing.......2007-07-26

I say this as one of the biggest Crowdies in the world. I have been a huge fan of every Finn project from the start, but something is missing from this album. To me this is not Crowded House. I will give it 5 stars as an amazing Neil Finn and Friends album, but not CH. I relate my experience listening to this album as I did Warren Zevon's The Wind. The musicianship is still there. Neil's lyrics are as poignant and haunting as ever, but the fun is gone. The magic that was Neil Finn, Nick Seymour, and Paul Hester is sadly missing.

I think this is a fitting tribute to Paul and I understand the reasons for reforming Crowded House, but Paul's absence is palpable. With all that being said, this is a beautiful and haunting album that every CH and Finn fan should own. You won't be disappointed with the album at all. I want to make that clear. You will, however, feel a sense of loss I think. This is as cathartic an album as you will find in some ways. Buy it, enjoy it, love it, but remember the good ol' times in your heart.

I respect your wishes Paul, but we miss you.

Make time for Time On Earth........2007-07-24

Things in the world these days tend to be geared towards providing instant gratification. Pop music these days is disposable - instantly catchy (annoyingly so in most cases), played to death for a few weeks and then forgotten about. It's almost like there is too much music and too many bands around.
So what a delight it is to have Crowded House back together again to give us this album which can be enjoyed at a much more relaxing and rewarding pace. That's the thing about Neil Finn - he writes melodies that don't instantly reveal their true beauty - they take their time to hit home. And this is the case with Time On Earth. On first listen it sounds pleasant and inoffensive and just kind of "pretty good". I'll admit I was left slightly disappointed on the first hearing. But sit with this album and give it a few plays and like a polaroid photograph all it's colours, lights and shades are gradually revealed. I have a new favourite every time I hear the album now and as the songs become more familiar to me I find myself humming and singing them to myself during the day. This is a drawn out pleasure and is all the more rewarding for it. An album that will actually give you something back if you take the time to appreciate it. Who'd have thought it in this day and age!?

All good songs here - not a duffer among them. Early favourites for me were 'Pour Le Monde','Silent House' and 'Nobody Wants To' and then the others arrived at different times. At the moment I'm stuck on 'People Are Like Suns' a stunning emotional closer and it's obvious that the loss of Paul Hester has coloured the writing of the songs on Time On Earth.

Neil Finn is a master of his craft. Great album.

If There is Hell on Earth - There Must Be a Heaven Too.......2007-07-24

I struggled with a 3 or 4 star rating. The disk surely deserves 3.5, but the question was to round up or down. I opted for up.

Unlike the other four Crowded House disks, this one is spotty, and I hate saying that. But 14 years and an incomplete original roster doesn't necessarily make it a 'Crowded House' disk in my book.

There is some great material on here ("Walked Her Way Down"), some really good material ("Nobody Wants To", "Even a Child", "Don't Stop Now", "Heaven that I'm Making" & "Say That Again").

But there is some really bad material too. "She Called Up" starts promising enough - and different too. But then it falls into a 'la la la la' chorus that makes the Carpenters' "Sing" sound like musical genius. I am not a fan of "A Sigh" either.

There is some good, but borderline marginal music here - and that's the hardest part to swallow. I don't like marginal Neil Finn. "Silent House" is ok, but I think the Dixie Chicks covered it better. "Pour Le Monde" sounds like something that didn't make John Lennon's 'Double Fantasy' disk - and the rest of the songs are too bland to comment on. Nothing sticks out - good or bad.

Yes, I stick with my four-star rating, but it is based on that the good material is strong and Neil Finn has a pretty good at-bat record. Had it been a lesser artist, I would have gone to three.

Crowded House returns..........2007-07-24

It's been very interesting watching (hearing) Neil Finn's progression as a songwriter. He's always had what we've called a dark side and that's been refelctive in each CH and solo albums. For me he is the most human songwriter I have ever heard.

I must admit, after a few listens, that in whole this album makes me feel a bit sad and somber. There are some great songs on here, though! "Don't Stop Now" and "Pour Le Monde" are my immediate favorites.

As a whole I find this one closer to Neil's 1st solo CD "Try Whistling This".

Finn with Crowdie Flavor.......2007-07-24

While a huge CH fan, I've always liked Neil's solo and Finn Brothers material better -- a bit more mature and groundbreaking. In fact, I was a bit disappointed to hear that Neil's solo album had morphed into a CH album.

Don't worry either way, though. Neil has always been the front man, and the bottom line is -- the album is amazing. It has the elements of a great Neil solo album, but you can definitely feel the influence of Mark Hart and Nick Seymour, which gives it a more upbeat Crowdie flavor. The songs are smart, Beatlesque with inventive arrangements, moving and haunting lyrics. Definitely more mature (and more melancholy) than most of the Crowdie material from years past. But Neil has a way of doing it without sounding melodramatic or shallow.

The cuts get better with more listens, which is the sign of truly rich material. The album could have stood trimming of 2 or 3 songs, but overall it's a great effort and real tribute to the effect Hester had on the band and Neil over the years. Add it with no regrets.

Average customer rating:

Excellent live album full of energy and killer songs for Crowdies
Beyond great!
A Wonderful "Farewell"
The World Where They Lived
Were they really this good?

Farewell to the World
Crowded House
Manufacturer: Capitol
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Time on Earth
Crowded House: Farewell to the World Live
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Imaginary Kingdom

ASIN: B000G8NW6K
Release Date: 2007-01-16

Tracks:

Mean To Me
World Where You Live
When You Come
Private Universe
Four Seasons In One Day
Fall At Your Feet
Whispers And Moans
Hole In the River
Better Be Home Soon
Pineapple Head
Distant Sun
Into Temptation
Everything Is Good For You

Tracks:

Locked Out
Something So Strong
Sister Madly
Italian Plastic
Weather With You
It's Only Natural
There Goes God
Fingers Of Love
In My Command
Throw Your Arms Around Me
Don't Dream It's Over

Amazon.com

If there ever was a farewell album could make one long for a reunion, this is it. Crowed House had their own personal hegemony of the airwaves in the '80s and '90s, and their final show on the steps of Sydney's Opera Plaza in 1996 shows you exactly why. This two-CD package overachieves as a live document, capturing both the high emotion of the crowd (120,000 strong) and stoicism of the band members, except for the final two songs, which find Neil Finn with a catch in his throat, fumbling over words. The entire recording is filled with memorable moments, brimming with humanity, heart, and the group's irreverent sense of humor--from dedicating song to the full moon, to inviting former band members onstage. "A Hole in the River," the gothic tune about Finn's aunt's suicide continues to haunt, while "Something So Strong" has grown up to be a self-help anthem. Farwell to the World is engaging, smart, philosophical, and sometimes even prophetic on songs like "Weather with You," when Neil Finn cautions, "You can fight the sleep, but not the dream." --Jaan Uhelszki

From the Label

Crowded House Photos

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Album Description

Two CD set containing the final live performance by this Australian band fronted by Neil Finn (also of Split Enz and the Finn Brothers) finally released on the 10th anniversary of it's recording. In Novermber of 1996, Crowded House played their final gig in front of 120,000 fans in Sydney, Australia. Farewell To The World is the offically released recording of that bittersweet concert. All the Crowdies hits are here including 'Don't Dream It's Over', 'World Where You Live', 'Weather With You', 'Something So Strong', 'It's Only Natural' and many more. 24 songs total. EMI. 2006.

Album Details

2006 Legitimate Issue of the Most Sought after Concert Recording by the New Zealand Foursome. Previously Available for a Very Short Time Only on Videocassette, this was the Band's Final Performance as the Sydney Opera House. While a Bittersweet Occasion, it was One of the Most Impassioned Performances Ever Delivered by the Group. All the I's were Dotted and the T's Crossed, featuring Final Renditions of all their Hits, Capped off with an Impassioned, "Don't Dream It's Over". While Neil, Nick and Paul Would Later Perform at a Few Charity Concert Appearances, this was the Group's Final Formal Sendoff, Making it all the More Poignant for Fans in the Wake of Paul Hester's Subsequent Passing. One More Time, Relish the Joy that was One of the Great Phenomenons in Modern Pop Music History.

Customer Reviews:

Excellent live album full of energy and killer songs for Crowdies.......2007-07-15

Ok true confessions first--I'm a huge Neil Finn fan and also had this when it was released 10 years ago as part of the Crowded House Fanclub live releases. This release improves on the original in one way--we get two discs instead of one. I really haven't compared this to my fanclub CD (hey, it's the only fanclub I belonged to and I did**honest**for the CDs)but this does seem a bit louder with less dynamic range. Nevertheless, I'm going with the five stars here for the performances.

I can't say I've done a head-to-head of late between this and the previous single disc edition so I don't know if any overdubbing was done. If it was, they did a masterful job of hiding it--the band sounds terrific (and yes, on a great night they sounded this good--heck even on a bad night they outclassed the competition). The only new material here is a cover of the Hunter & Collector's tune "Throw Your Arms Around Me" but it's one of the few places to also get a stunning live version of "Everything Is Good For You" (which appeared on their last release as a band the "Recurring Dream" Best of set). It's also one of the few CDs in print where you can hear live versions (many of them stunning)of the tracks for their albums "Woodface" and "Together Alone". The band DID release a live EP with some of the material here but that's long out of print and probably fetching high prices on Ebay and here as well.

Even my LEAST favorite track the humorous "Italian Plastic" by the late Paul Hester is enjoyable to listen to here. Luckily for fans, the Dream isn't over as the band has since released a new album and is touring the world. Let's hope that they get back in the studio quickly as Neil's indicated that he'd like to put together another album of new material ASAP.

Beyond great!.......2007-05-07

I have been a Crowded House / Finn Brothers fan for a long time, but this live CD is amazing. Neil Finn is such a talented and gracious musician and performer. If you are already a fan, this would be a great addition to your collection. If you are new to them, it is a great represenation of their talent and will make you want more. One of the best music purchases I have made this year.

A Wonderful "Farewell".......2007-03-20

Of course, with the news that Neil Finn, Nick Seymour, and Mark Hart will be touring again with a new drummer, this isn't really a 'farewell' as it were, but for hardcore CH fans, it is, and with the recent death of drummer Paul Hester, this recording attains an added bit of ironic melancholy and increased appreciation.

This is a great double CD, and for even casual fans of the band, it is well worth purchasing. The production is fabulous, and the performances are excellent. One will find so many of the "greatest hits" ("Distant Sun", "Weather With You", "World Where You Live", "Don't Dream It's Over", and my personal favorite, "Fall At Your Feet") done well, especially "Don't Dream", the last song of the show, complete with crowd-sung chorus and deafening applause at the conclusion. But fans will also enjoy other non-single album tracks like "Whispers And Moans", "Fingers of Love", and "When You Come", songs that are terrific but didn't make the Greatest Hits cut. Also included are some elements of the personality of the band, something that separated them from the majority of bands who take themselves way too seriously. Neil adds alternate lyrics in "Into Temptation" when he realizes the crowd in front needs water; during "Sister Madly", Paul does an imitation of Tina Turner, and the songs ends with the line, "Climb every mountian...". The guys are fully enjoying this last show, and you can tell it is not just for the 100,000+ fans there and the MTV Europe audience watching it live, but for themselves as well, and this recording captures that nicely.

I will say this: I bought a VHS copy of this show a few years ago before this CD was officially released, and this recording takes out some of the in-between song banter that made the concert feel even more like a concert. But on the up-side, more songs from the show were included in this 2 CD set than on the original film, especially a few more songs with neil's brother Tim, and the Hester-penned song "Italian Plastic".

I highly recommend this release.

The World Where They Lived.......2007-03-15

This CD has not only brilliant sound quality, but the performances are incredible. Neil's singing is as good as ever, and you definitely feel that you're there with rock and roll's greatest audience listening to what are collectively some of the best songs ever written. The beauty of a live Crowded House show is not only in the world's most beautiful instrument, Neil Finn's voice, but it's just as much in the audience participation in singing along to very cool tunes.

This is an amazing CD that will probably leave most of us wondering, gee, why didn't you make it a four-disc set?

Were they really this good?.......2007-02-23

Yes, the Crowdies were easily the best band to come out of the '80's. I first read about them in a rave review of their 1st album in the pages of Musician magazine (circa '86), bought the c.d., and have followed their brilliant but less than prolific output ever since.

Those who are reading this review are probably somewhat familiar with the band's history (Split Enz, etc.), but one fact bears repeating for U.S. listeners: Only here were they known as one hit wonders; the rest of the world quickly figured out how good they were and the band's star rose accordingly. In fact, the Very Best of Crowded House (from '96) entered the charts at number one in both England and Australia.

This live c.d. is a welcome addition to their catalogue capturing the band in 1996 in front of 100,000+ in a perfect display of the dual professionalism and looseness of their live shows.

I can't help but recommend the DVD too. In fact if you can only plunk down for one, then get the DVD. I recommend both.

Recurring Dream: The Very Best Of Crowded House

Average customer rating:

the return of crowded house.....
Great CD
Essential compilation of severely underrated band
An entire CD that is very easy to listen to.
beautiful, soaring, exciting pop/rock

Recurring Dream: The Very Best Of Crowded House
Crowded House
Manufacturer: Capitol
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000002U5B
Release Date: 1996-07-23

Tracks:

Weather With You
World Where You Live
Fall At Your Feet
Locked Out
Don't Dream It's Over
Into Temptation
Pineapple Head
When You Come
Private Universe
Not The Girl You Think You Are
Instinct
I Feel Possessed
Four Seasons In One Day
It's Only Natural
Distant Sun
Something So Strong
Mean To Me
Better Be Home Soon
Everything Is Good For You

Customer Reviews:

the return of crowded house............2007-03-15

this band needs no intro....
this greatest hits shows the greatness of a band audio-wise but doesnt show their incredible live presence and on-stage banter that made them legends. Paul Hester sadly left us a few years ago but the news is out:

Thursday, January 25, 2007

Crowded House Reform - Official Statement from the Band

Crowded House founders Neil Finn and Nick Seymour have confirmed that they will be putting the band back together, with plans for a new studio album and world tour.

Talking about the decision Neil said "After spending most of last year making music and hanging out with my friend Nick Seymour we are now announcing our intention to reform Crowded House with a new record entitled Time On Earth. It feels right to us that the band should re-emerge at this time and together with Mark Hart we look forward to reconnecting with the audience that we established and for whom we still hold a deep respect. We aim to make the upcoming shows and the new music every bit as vital and spirited as what has come before. We are conscious that Paul Hester was above all a great drummer and we are currently auditioning to find someone special to take that role."

The band is currently putting the finishing touches on the new album for release later in the year. Tour plans are yet to be announced but the band have confirmed they will play the Coachella Music and Arts Festival in California USA along with Bjork, Red Hot Chilli Peppers and Rage Against the Machine."

they are coming out with a new album this year (2007) and a new tour!!!!

GOD BLESS CROWDED HOUSE.....

Great CD.......2007-02-09

I really didn't know much about this band. I loved the song "Don't Dream It's Over"; so I bought this CD. The entire CD is great. It is filled with easy listening and mellow songs. The CD just leaves you feeling really good. I love it.

Essential compilation of severely underrated band.......2007-01-19

I agree with most of the other reviewers: Crowded House were massively underrated. The critics were fond of their albums at the time, and in the years since Neil Finn has been acknowledged of one of the master songwriters of his generation. Still, outside of their home turf of Australia and New Zealand, few people are familiar with the name Crowded House. Play them "Don't Dream It's Over," their brilliant 1987 chart-topper, and you'll probably get a vague, "Ohhh, they did *that* song." This is simply a shame.

Almost every band purported to be the Next Big Thing eventually gets compared to The Beatles, whether it's Duran Duran or The Strokes, and it's usually quite a stretch in any number of ways. Not so with Crowded House. In superficial aesthetics the two bands share a lot in common: the Rubber Soul-like harmonies that adorn their album Woodface; the driving, melodic basslines of Nick Seymour (much like Paul McCartney); Paul Hester's non-technical, but undeniably toe-tapping drumming; and Neil Finn's voice, which can break into Lennon-esque, hoarse rock shout, or have a soothing clarinet quality like McCartney.

But the songwriting is where the comparison is most apt. The Beatles' best songs seem almost inevitable and cosmic: *somebody* was bound to happen upon a melody this perfect eventually (as in "Yesterday"), and for some reason Lennon and McCartney were able to pluck such songs out of the air regularly. Neil Finn did the same, several times for each album, with Crowded House. Listen to "Four Seasons In One Day" just once, and you'll hear what I mean.

With this album, all these songs are collected in one place. I can't say how essential this disc is for anyone who appreciates outstanding pop songwriting that goes beyond catchy and crafted and into the realm of something deep and transcendent. The first 10 listens you'll be enjoying the melodies, energy and fantastic production; after that, you'll feel like you've found a new musical best friend. It's that good.

An entire CD that is very easy to listen to........2007-01-13

This CD plays like an easy listening extravaganza. Every song is mellow and classic. The band is apparently from New Zealand/Australia, which may explain the subtle brit pop undertones.. not to mention the McCartney-esque style of a few tracks. Overall this CD is a great buy, you won't be disappointed.

beautiful, soaring, exciting pop/rock.......2006-12-31

When I first listened to this disk, I could knew one Crowded House song (Don't Dream It's Over), which is a great song, but I didn't know the band. A friend recommended this disk, which I listened to the first time at work. I didn't get anything done for that hour, and if CD's could wear out, I'd long ago have needed to replace this one.

Crowded House may not be a major band - one MTV hit, a couple of radio hits, and they're real big in New Zealand (where they are from) - but they are one of greats. Reminiscent at times of (OK, I know, this gets thrown around too often, but it's true) the Beatles (in their mid-years - think Rubber Soul) and The Ocean Blue, they can mellow with the best (Not the Girl You Think You Are, Four Seasons in One Day). When they choose to rock (Locked Out), the maintain musical and lyrical integrity. Weather With You is an indescribable joy.

Perhaps not for metalheads, but anyone who likes sophisticated (but not overly complex) arrangements, thoughtful lyrics, and spotless, emotional performance will love this.

Average customer rating:

80's Pop Gem
Preview of later greatness
The Rodney Dangerfield of pop
Incredible and incredibly overlooked
Crowded House a first love.

Crowded House
Crowded House
Manufacturer: Capitol
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Temple of Low Men
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ASIN: B000002UCR
Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

Mean To Me
World Where You Live
Now We're Getting Somewhere
Don't Dream It's Over
Love You 'Til The Day I Die
Something So Strong
Hole In The River
Can't Carry On
I Walk Away
Tombstone
That's What I Call Love

Amazon.com

After gradually assuming a front-and-center role in brother Tim's band Split Enz, native New Zealander and transplanted Australian Neil Finn moved firmly into a leadership position with Crowded House, a trio whose debut album appeared in 1986. Slightly more mainstream than his new-wavy Split Enz work, the record nonetheless evinced signs of darkness ("Don't Dream It's Over," "World Where You Live," "Hole in the River") among more chipper numbers such as "Something So Strong." Often gorgeous, Crowded House proved to be the group's biggest release in America, which didn't seem to have a radio home for them after the success of "Don't Dream" and "Something." They disbanded in 1996. --Rickey Wright

Customer Reviews:

80's Pop Gem.......2007-01-04

Crowded House was a 3 piece band from Australia led by Neil Finn who was a former member of the band Split Endz (along with his brother Tim). Crowded House got quite big in America back in the late 80's with their blend of strong song writing and harmony vocals. This is the only Crowded House album that I own, but I have always really liked it. Two huge hits came from this album "Don't Dream It's Over" and "Something So Strong" both of which are great pop tunes. Other highlights include "Mean To Me", "World Where You Live", and the haunting "Hole In The River". If you are looking for very well done pop this album is for you.

Preview of later greatness.......2006-04-27

This is by far the most popular Crowded House album in the States. It includes the huge classic Don't Dream It's Over & another lesser hit, Something So Strong. Despite there being other fine tunes on the album such as Mean To Me and Now We're Getting Somewhere, the overall quality does not match in any way what was still to come, merely hints at what would make Crowded House such a great band

This is not to say that the rest are filler tracks. If the last tunes are excluded, most songs are catchy with great texts. The production of many of them has, however, quickly dated. Case in point is the catchy Can't Carry On, influenced with the then current 80s sound heavy with synth and tin sounding production. And despite being very tuneful, many songs simply lacked depth which became later apparent. Those who have had the great fortune of owning the live CD available (limited edition) with their greatest hits collection hear how well Crowded House later turned mediocre songs on this album such as Hole In The River (which simply comes to life on that version) and Love You 'Til The Day I Die into great tunes.

With the exception of Now We're Getting Somewhere, most of the main songs on this album are included on the Recurring Dream greatest hits collection. I recommend purchasing that one for most people (being a Crowded House fan, I own all their records, including this one) and for those wanting more, pick the version including the live CD, which is outstanding. It is, however, in most cases very expensive.

The Rodney Dangerfield of pop.......2006-02-14

They don't get no respect. Ask most Americans who they are and they'll say "They did 'Don't Dream it's Over',right?" Those with slightly better memories might recall the Aussie band's "Something So Strong" and perhaps "Locked out" (from 1994 disc TOGETHER ALONE). But the poor chart placement in the U.S. has nothing to do with the quality of music found here. (For what it's worth, the U.K. knew a good thing when it heard it. CH landed 10 Top 40 hits there.)

The band was Neil Finn's next musical endeavour after leaving 80s new-wavers Split Enz, taking its name from the cramped conditions of the band's home in California. The band combined somewhat Beatlesque melodies with Finn's expressive tenor to churn out a consistently tuneful pop, albeit with more depth than the typical Whitney Houston or Janet Jackson fare of the era.

Little known trivia: Guitar shredder Joe Satriani makes an appearance here but not the way you'd expect. Joe contributes some backing vocals to the disc.

HIGHLIGHTS:
The charging "Mean to Me" masks a dark subject in its happy pop: the smothering nature of a clingy woman. ("I could not escape/A plea from the heart/You know what it means to me/She said don't walk away/I'm down on my knees/Please don't be mean to me..") "Now We're Getting Somewhere" finds Finn and his lover coasting on the fumes of love. ("Somewhere in the middle than/Content and much too safe..") He cajoles her to "lay me out" in an effort to rediscover the passion in their jaundiced affair. You've no doubt heard the white soul of "Don't Dream it's Over". It peaked just out of #1 in the U.S. and is easily the best song here and perhaps the finest one penned by Finn thus far. He's desperate here, clinging to his lover in the face of the pressures of day-to-day life. ("They come to build a wall between us/Don't let them win...") The chiming with joy "Something so Strong" ("could carry us away..could carry us today") is the flip side of "Don't Dream"...Finn doing the "happy Snoopy dance" of full bloom infatuation. The melancholy "Hole in the River" is another winner, the tale of a near suicide. ("From the land of the living to the air and sky/She was coming to see him/But something changed her mind..") This would become eerie foreshadowing when future bandmember Paul Hester claimed his own life in 2005 while battling clinical depression. "That's What I Call Love" is the bitter aftermath of a broken heart as Finn bitterly proclaims "You take away my air/You make my lungs collapse/I die tonight".

LOWS:
"Can't Carry On" is as close to mediocre as this disc gets. Even then, it's not a tune that I skip. It's just not as good as the music surrounding it.

BOTTOM LINE:
It's in the "Blowout Music" section for crying out loud. (Less than $2 if you get it used.) Take a chance. Recommended especially for fans of Squeeze and Marshall Crenshaw.

Incredible and incredibly overlooked.......2006-01-07

It's hardly a fair comparison to call Crowded House's first album a "debut" when band members have already had success in other bands. However, there are still not many cases like that where a new band's debut album is such an incredible achievement.

Crowded House is one of many great bands who have come and gone without ever reaching mass appeal in the U.S. It's a shame, too, because these guys are amazing song writers. This album sounds as fresh and vibrant today as it did almost 20 years ago when it came out. There is literally not one weak track on this album.

If you're a fan of the '80s or even just a fan of good pop/rock music, you should check these guys out. I'm not as familiar with their other records as I am of this one, but this one is without a doubt on my "recommend" list. Check it out.

Crowded House a first love........2005-12-27

We All remember our first love,oh sure if you're lucky there were others, some better, some worse,but you always remember your first. That's what this album represents to me. This was my first renewed love with rock & roll. Released in 1986 I first found about the album from the big hit DONT DREAM ITS OVER, the song got tons of airplay.The album only produced TWO hit songs,Dont dream its over, & Somthing so strong. Crowded House was the brain child of Neil Finn,(From SPLIT ENZ). The group took ther name from the crowded living conditions they had to deal with while living in a small house in california. Eleven songs on the disc,10 if you had the cassette (CANT CARRY ON) was left off? The feel of the album is very moody, & somewhat Dark with songs about love,loves lost,& death, a great fall/winter album, it just has that feel to it. All the songs are well written, & the production is fantastic. For me the highlights are, World where you live, Now we're getting somewhere, Dont dream its over, Somthing so strong,& I walk away.I think the whole album is fantastic but those songs really stand out.Although the group would go on to make only four more studio albums, all of which are amazing in them selves,none would be as big as this one. Most Critics will say that TOGETHER ALONE is there crowning achievment, and is my secound favorite by the group,but this is still the best. The Eighty's produceed the best decade of music by far, this album i would put into the top ten of that decade, this album is a absolute must have. Thanks.

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Don't Stop Now
Crowded House
Manufacturer: EMI Int'l
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:

Don't Stop Now, Pt. 2
Time on Earth
Time on Earth
Farewell to the World
Don't Stop Now

ASIN: B000R3480I
Release Date: 2007-06-25

Tracks:

Don't Stop Now
Lost Island
Mean To Me (Live Real World Sessions Webcast)
Stare Me Out

Album Description

The new single from the reunited Crowded House is. Produced by Steve Lillywhite (U2, Morrissey) `Don't Stop Now' features the new Crowded House line-up - Neil Finn on guitars and vocals, Nick Seymour on bass guitar, Mark Hart on piano and harmony, and new recruit Matt Sherrod on drums - plus a guest appearance on guitar by the legendary Johnny Marr (ex-The Smiths).

Album Details

Produced by Steve Lillywhite (U2, Morrissey) 'don't Stop Now' features the New Crowded House Line-up - Neil Finn on Guitars and Vocals, Nick Seymour on Bass Guitar, Mark Hart on Piano and Harmony, and New Recruit Matt Sherrod on Drums - plus a Guest Appearance on Guitar by the Legendary Johnny Marr (Ex-the Smiths). First Single from their 2007 'time on Earth' Full Length. Includes Three B-side Tracks. "Stare Me Out" is an Exclusive B-side Track.

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Welcome Back Crowdies

Time on Earth
Crowded House
Manufacturer: EMI Int'l
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Don't Stop Now, Pt. 2
Don't Stop Now
Don't Stop Now
Farewell to the World
Crowded House: Farewell to the World Live

ASIN: B000PLCLTW
Release Date: 2007-07-09

Tracks:

Nobody Wants To
Don't Stop Now
She Called Up
Say That Again
Pour Le Morde
Even A Child
Heaven That I'm Making
Sigh
Silent House
English Trees
Walked Her Way Down
Transit Lounge
You Are The One To Make Me Cry
People Are Like Suns
Locked Out (Live From Real World Studios)
Something So Strong (Live From Real World Studios)(Bonus Dvd)
World Where You Live (Live From Real World Studios)(Bonus Dvd)
Time On Earth (Track By Track Interview)
Photo Gallery

From Amazon.co.uk

Time on Earth, the first Crowded House record since 1993's superlative Together Alone, began as a Neil Finn solo record, but morphed into a reunion album after bassist Nick Seymour joined the studio sessions and new drummer (Matt Sherrod, formerly of Beck) was recruited to replace the late Paul Hester. Hester sadly took his own life in 2005, and Time on Earth is, in that sense, a tribute album; yet it's simultaneously a move into the future. In true CH style, Time on Earth weaves together a range of moods, from touching, introspective ballads, to upbeat, Beatles-esque rock 'n' roll. --Paul Sullivan

Album Description

Limited edition two disc (CD + PAL/Region 0 DVD) pressing of the 2007 reunion album from Neil Finn and his housemates features a bonus DVD that contains three live performances filmed for a Real World Sessions Webcast, interview with Crowded House and photo gallery. The CD features the long-awaited album produced by Ethan Johns [Kings Of Leon, Ray LaMontagne] and Steve Lillywhite [U2, Morrissey]. 14 tracks including the first single 'Don't Stop Now' and 'Even A Child'.

Album Details

2007 Issue of the Legendary New Zealanders' First Album in More Than a Decade. The Surprise Reunion Album Has 14 Songs Housed in a Package with Cover Art featuring a Painting by Bassist Nick Seymour, a Band Tradition. Modest Mouse and Former Electronic and Smiths Guitarist Johnny Marr Joined the Guys on Two Tracks, "Don't Stop Now" and "Even a Child", which He Co-wrote with Neil Finn. The Song that Finn Co-wrote with the Dixie Chicks, "Silent House", is also Part of the Lineup, Given a Proper Ch Rendering. The Album was Recorded at Roundhead Studios in Auckland, Rak Studios in London and Real World Studios in Wiltshire and Produced by Ethan Johns (Ryan Adams, Kings of Leon, Ray Lamontagne) and Steve Lillywhite (U2, Rolling Stones, Morrissey). This Edition Includes a Bonus Dvd with as Yet Unspecified Material.

Customer Reviews:

Welcome Back Crowdies.......2007-07-10

This new Crowded House effort is simply wonderful. But, if you're after instant gratification, then this album is not for you. It is impossible to comment on this CD before at least half a dozen listens. It is darker and heavier than previous Crowded House sets and Paul Hester's presence is everywhere. While it may not have the same level of energy as you'd expect from typical Crowded House fare, it nevertheless has moments of pure Neil Finn genius. She Called Up is the closest thing to the boppy Crowded House of yesterday, reminiscent of Something So Strong. In part, Time On Earth does resemble one of Neil Finn's solo projects, but this is only logical because this CD began as Finn's next solo work until the suggestion of reforming Crowded House was raised. There are aspects of every part of Finn's career on this CD, with hints of Split Enz, reminders of the Crowded House we used to love (and now love again) and both his own work and that with brother Tim, as well. On first listen, you'll probably only like two or three tracks, but after half a dozen listens you won't be able to put it down. There's something to enjoy about nearly every track on this CD. The uptempo pop of the Crowded House of the 80s and 90s still exists on Time on Earth, the gorgeous ballads are haunting, the brooding rock of Silent House (co-written with The Dixie Chicks) fantastic, and the melodies, just beautiful. To all those doubters out there, you didn't really think one of the greatest songwriters of our generation would let us down, did you?

Average customer rating:

Their best
Great!!!
Crowded House meets The Beatles
Woodface.
Woodface, a tour de force

Woodface
Crowded House
Manufacturer: Capitol
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:

Temple of Low Men
Together Alone
Crowded House
Afterglow
Time on Earth

ASIN: B000006MVE
Release Date: 2006-07-01

Tracks:

Chocolate Cake
It's Only Natural
Fall At Your Feet
Tall Trees
Weather With You
Whispers And Moans
Four Seasons In One Day
There Goes God
Fame Is
All I Ask
As Sure As I Am
Italian Plastic
She Goes On
How Will You Go

Album Details

Another reissue in the Centenary Edition, in a Slipcase with Bonus Tracks.

Customer Reviews:

Their best.......2007-03-05

The Finn brothers' presence together raise this album above the remainder of their considerable catalog. Inventive and brilliant. "It's Only Natural" is "our song" in our family, a fact shared with Neil by my sis who knows him pretty well, to which he expressed a puzzled "Why?" Because it's a fantastic love song, that's why! "Italian Plastic" is one song that must be heard to be believed. I defy anyone to listen to it without breaking into a grin.

Great!!!.......2007-01-10

One of my favourite albums of the '90's- great songs, great musicians, great production- great.

Crowded House meets The Beatles.......2006-04-29

Neil Finn's song writing has often been compared to even the highlights of the Lennon/McCartney partnership. Actually, Paul could/should have learned a thing or two from Finn in the early 90s. Never were the similarities more obvious than on Woodface, an album packed with great melodies, straight driven arrangements and a gorgeous production. Neil's brother, Tim, joined Crowded House on this album and not only does their partnership shine on the song writing level but even more in the harmonizing on many songs, Tim complementing Neil very successfully on many tracks.

The one track that seems at odds with the album was interestingly the first track and incredibly chosen as the first single. Chocolate Cake is a rocking song but the weakest track on the album, with the brothers seeming to salvage a song that just isn't good enough, radio wise at least. I admit having grown to the song in a strange way but yet always have mixed feelings towards it. This odd single selection must certainly have insured a commercial disaster in the States and could have done the same thing internationally.

After Chocolate Cake it's a bonanza of great solid tunes like the joyful It's Only Natural and Weather With You (a huge hit everywhere in the world, including my 3 year old son's world, except the States) and slower tunes such as Fall At Your Feet and Four Seasons In One Day (my son loves that one too and its corny video). The later part of the album is much slower but no less fulfilling. As Sure As I Am showcases an atmosphere of togetherness whilst How Will You Go reminds me of the plight someone close to me deals with daily due to alcoholism.

This album deserves 5 stars despite not being from my standpoint the masterpiece many people regard it to be, maybe simply because their crowning achievement in my view is Together Alone. I have heard few albums with so many solid songs in my lifetime and is of Crowded House's two lighter sounding albums, their first self titled album being the other one, much better, despite of the inclusion of Don't Dream It's Over on the first one (which is available on their Recurring Dream compilation).

Woodface........2006-03-12

This album, along with The Spin Doctors' Pocketful of Kryptonite and R.E.M.'s Out Of Time, reminds me of a time in the early 1990s when alternative bands dressed in their Byrds-like finery and played quite sunny, wistful, folk pop rock about nature, love and friendship.

`Chocolate Cake' is a moodily humourous song with a blues-like ending. It's a pleasant start to the album. `It's only natural', like a few other songs on this album, has a slightly quirky start. It reminds me of the short bursts of music that you hear inbetween scenes in comedy shows like Friends. Neil Finn's singing style is clean, resonant, harmonious and comfortable with himself. `Fall at your feet' may be Crowded House's `Every move you make'. Like a few other songs on this album, the last verse is faster than the others. `Tall Trees' is pleasantly strident. I particularly like the part where the last verse is interspersed with guitar playing (`The salt from your skin/ Tall Trees/ Tall Tree').

`Weather with you' features a Byrds-like jingle jangle sound at the beginning and between the verses and choruses. It also has some of my favourite lines: `Things ain't cooking in my kitchen. Strange affliction wash over me. Julius Caesar and the Roman Empire Couldn't conquer the blue sky.' Although those last two lines could be intended to convey that there is always freedom somewhere, I think that they are also saddening- as the Stone Roses put it in `Tightrope' from their `Second Coming' album- `Are we etched in stone or just scratched in the sand?' `Whispers and moans' is a moody song with a slightly mystical sound and featuring what sounds like a glockenspiel. Some of my favourite parts are when the line `When I wake up in your room' rises up and when Neil Finn shouts about things that will `one day be forgotten'.

`Four seasons in one day' is a slow, dream-like song with a deep sound balanced by quiet harmonies. `There goes God' begins with screechy instrumentation, with violins throughout the song. The urgency of `Fame is' is similar to `Tall Trees'. The song begins with the words `Forked lightning', which seems to tie in well with the previous song (in depictions of God, he is sometimes shown displaying his wrath by sending lightning down to Earth). The band hint at their work ethic with the lines `Love children of the new age. Just a hippy with a weekly wage. There's no rebellion, just a chance to be lazy.' On the verses, small scribbles of violins conjure up the image to me of a classical, decadent civilisation. Like a few songs on the album, the song ends with starry-eyed proclamations of what is to come: `And of all your spells will break, And all of your stars will fall. So look out for number one. Fame is in your blood'.

`All I ask' has a gently meandering, quiet start. It is the kind of slightly quirky, start that Thomas Newman would do (he did the music for `American Beauty' and `Six feet under'), or the kind of bashfully beautiful music used in adventure games (I thought that it would suit the one of the quiet sections in Metroid Prime). The song features poignant lyrics: `I pity the rhino. Down there it's becoming extinct'. I actually thought that the following line was : `I'd kill for a love potion', which would have been darkly humourous/ironic because it wouldn't have sounded like he literally would have killed for a love potion- it would have sounded like he simply really wanted one (with the fact that some love potions are made from ground rhino horn making the dream of having a love potion impossible to him). The actual line is `Killed for a love potion'. If the lyrics I had heard had been the actual ones, the following line `Sad thing, looking like a dead flower', would have then brought the singer back to the reality of what is required to make a love potion.

`Italian Plastic', by Paul Hester, features harmonies sung for comedic effect at the end and a last, Beatles-esque `Who ya gonna take to the ball tonight? Who ya gonna take to the dance tonight?'. The song adds a bit of `Chocolate Cake' lightness to the album.
`She goes on' sounds a bit like a soaring sequel to `Four seasons in one day'. It contains the wistful, poignant lines: `'Til we see her once again/ In a world without end'. (the word `world' is stressed and the line features alliteration with the repetition of the `w' sound. `How will you go' features a typically energetic, enigmatic and poignant part towards the end of the song: `And you know I'll be fine/ Just don't ask me how it's going/ Gimme time, gimme time/'Cos I want you to see/Round the world, round the world/Is a tangled up necklace of pearls). Following this is a piece of music that is sparkling and fresh, conjuring up an image of the sea to me.

After a period of silence, the band start sounding like monkeys and singing `I'm still here/ I won't go away'. The Stone Roses used a similar type of ending on their 1994 Second Coming album, which ended with them scratching away a tune partly similar to `They're coming to take me away'.

Although I have only listened to extracts from their other albums (the beautiful, quirky, Pineapple Head sounds like a medieval lullaby), Crowded House's sound on Woodface is as clean and fresh as I imagine New Zealand air to be. It is an album quite free of angst and comfortable to listen to but never ordinary. If you like Crowded House, you may also like The La's and similar bands.

Woodface, a tour de force.......2006-01-04

This is simply the best melodic pop album recorded since Abbey Road.

Average customer rating:

A couple of songs away from utter perfection.
Why Haven't I Heard of Them Before Now???
Makes a great rainy day CD for listening to on the porch.
I'd Much Rather Have a Caravan filled with Money......than a Mansion filled with Debt
Temple of great songs but no hits

Temple of Low Men
Crowded House
Manufacturer: Capitol
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:

Woodface
Crowded House
Together Alone
Afterglow
Time on Earth

ASIN: B000006N4M
Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

I Feel Possessed
Kill Eye
Into Temptation
Mansion In The Slums
When You Come
Never Be The Same
Love This Life
Sister Madly
In The Lowlands
Better Be Home Soon

Customer Reviews:

A couple of songs away from utter perfection........2007-07-13

Neil Finn rightly has a reputation as a crafter of eminently hummable, infectious pop/rock tunes, and this, Crowded House's sophomore effort, is a fine showcase for his (and the band's) ample talents.

This set explores, to a greater degree than any other CH album, the breadth of human emotion inherent in relationships, from fear to ardor to longing, covering virtually every possible variation in between. The writing is crisp and beautiful, the playing simultaneously delicate and energetic.

The album's high points include the passionate "When You Come," one of those Finn songs that manages to be both about, and not about, sexual desire; "Never Be The Same," a thoughtful reflection on mortality, and the yearning apprehensiveness of "In The Lowlands."

Even the weaker tracks, such as "Kill Eye" (which can be a bit grating after time), are still far more interesting than the filler found on the albums of lesser artists.

If you are searching for the perfect pop/rock set, I would recommend Finn's solo debut, Try Whistling This; nonetheless, this album will make a fine addition to any CD collection and is a must for all CH fans.

Why Haven't I Heard of Them Before Now???.......2007-05-06

I can't believe I hadn't heard of this Aussie band until I met someone on Second Life who recommended I give them a listen. Now I am totally addicted to Into Temptation, When You Come, Never Be the Same, Love This Life, and Better Be Home Soon. Beautiful, pensive, suggestive... dare I say romantic? These are now on my Classic Playlist.

Makes a great rainy day CD for listening to on the porch........2006-11-30

The 1988 recording by Crowded House, "Temple of Low Men," never received its due for the well-crafted songs (save the irritating Kill Eye which I invariably skip), musical interplay among the band, and production from then unknown Mitchell Froom (who really should be accorded the status of fourth member).

Though a more challenging listen than the band's lighter, more pop-oriented debut album, "Temple of Low Men" makes a great rainy day CD for listening to on the porch. Neil Finn always knew how to craft interesting lyrics and songs such as Sister Madly, which has a great one-off guest shot by Richard Thompson on guitar, is one of those tunes that gets stuck on endless mental replay if you are not careful.

It's a bit startling to see how many of these are for sale for so little--you folks might want to give this one another spin.

I'd Much Rather Have a Caravan filled with Money......than a Mansion filled with Debt.......2006-07-24

Hello again people. It's the pompous Seer that you know so well who is back to reviewing considerable music to explore. I was on vacation. Spent some time on the Gulf of Mexico. What a time! After almost killing myself with those jet skis, I became sedate (and also quite a sight) lounging on the beach-sunglasses, white beard flowing, with a constant supply of tropical drinks courtesy of the hotel. Sounds nice huh? I won't even discuss the amount of money I spent tipping the busboy. I am saddened that we can't use spirituality instead of money. If that were so, Metamorpho would be a very rich Seer. Ah well.
Chance (my guide that looks like Robert DeNiro but without the scowl) bet me that I could not write a cohesive review about Crowded House. So I cut my vacation early and flew back home to write this for my adoring public.
To start, let me say that I have all of Crowded House's C.D.s and ALL are excellent in the pop genre. That said, there is something about Temple of Low Men that I find intriguing over and over again. To make sense of this, I asked my guides exactly what it was? But to no avail. I suppose the lure of a roulette table takes precedence over true reflective. Also, age is not a positive factor in my favor. I never thought I'd careen into another generation gap. The slights of life.
Anyway- Neil Finn's compositional talents are very considerable and noteworthy. In some way there are a number of topics going on here- possession,rejection,redemption,isolation and the attempt at true communication and connection. All done in a sometimes confusing stream of conciousness. But no matter - the thought bubbles that emanate from Neil Finn's mind are indeed crowded and when they are released we are exposed to amazing bits of songwriting. Even though this is the pop genre, Neil's compositions are anything but matter-of-fact. He throws chords and changes in here that are incredible and unique. And the talent and the production make you wish you had 6 ears instead of 2.
The album begins with "I Feel Possessed" and the swirling and beckoning musical backdrop perfectly fits the alluring and dream-like state that Neil finds himself in. It is a giving in to an uncontrollable quest that constantly eludes us.
"Kill Eye" is disturbing and rough. The emotions in this are at war. The subject, although destructive and possessed, still has underlined goodness that cannot be expressed. We then move from the roughness to "Into Temptation", a lilting, subtle and sad song. We know that the subject here has many regrets over his failures and that he feels guilty by being possessed by temptation. Great lines here, "the guilty get no sleep, in the last slow hours of morning, experience is cheap,I should have listened to the warning". Neil's expressions with words are a joy to behold.
"Mansion in the Slums" is one of Metamorpho's favorites. A puzzling tune for sure. It is the isolation that comes by being rich as opposed to the connections by being poor. As he states, he'd rather have the best of both worlds. Neil does not want to only have the option of one or the other. A struggle for personal freedom. With "When You Come" is a double-entendre of sorts. An exploding, sensual attack of love from the earth and the heavens. Pay attention to Neil's poetry and how the music builds to a crescendo. Absolutely remarkable.
"Never Be the Same" and "Love this Life" are a perfect duo of songs. They both concentrate on survival after failure. In "Never Be the Same" he urges everyone to not stand around, like friends at a funeral. That suffering is always personal. However, the subjects "might still survive, and rise up through the maze" all the while knowing that things could never be the same after what they went through. The music on this is pure pop pleasure juxtaposed against difficult emotions. "Love this Life", on the other hand, proceeds on a calmer scale. It is the resolution that even though disaster may strike, we are alive, and the experience of the pleasure and the pain, are still a worthy measure of being human.
"Sister Madly" is a jaunty little shuffle about about, paradoxically, a steam-roller of a woman. It is a disconnect and the disconnection comes from how she treats people. She knows what she's doing, and is guided by another type of obsession/possession. "In the Lowlands" is a troubled state of affairs and, again, the music matches this urgency. Neil finds himself to be too late to fix the situation and his relationship and his desire will transform to fear. The music mirrors the situation and the lyrics, again, wax poetic and vital.
"Better Be Home Soon" seems simple enough, however, it too is about possession, about something that has a hold. The emotions within his love are pushing him away. Yet, he holds the key and is right for the first time in his life. Again, the lack of communication is a theme here, and, although he can go on without her, she runs the risk of getting back home too late. This is the best song on the album, in my opinion, and, in many respects, home is where the heart is.
In conclusion, I have come to "feel possessed" (and obssessed) about the music here. It is a wonder-and very well worth your consideration. Hope I did a somewhat half-decent job. I hope everyone's summer is filled with sun and joy. Now, listen to Metamorpho -you'll be glad. Again- I would not lead you down a false path and make you drink poisoned Kool-Aid. Catch the real drift (see my other reviews). Now, back to the beach. Yours in eternal light-------Metamorpho (Morphy)

Temple of great songs but no hits.......2006-04-28

I remember hearing Better Be Home Soon, the first single, the first time many years ago. It was a very nice song but surely not a contender of being a major hit. There had to be other songs lined up being hit singles, this one being merely an introduction to their new album? The reality was, however, that Temple Of Low Men barely has a single radio friendly song. The song closest to it, Never Be The Same got some airplay on Rock oriented radio stations but was mysteriously never released as a single.

Unlike their first self titled album, which was full of catchy pop tunes and a glossy production, Temple Of Low Men consist mainly of darker tunes. This is not to say that they are not catchy, they simply do not provide necessary radio fodder to sell. Not being an established major act, the album thus became a major commercial flop. Artistically, however, Temple was a break through proving that Don't Dream It's Over was not simply some sort of luck. I Feel Possessed starts the album and signals a much richer production than before, with Neil Finn content of showing a dark side in a similar fashion of Sting's Every Breathe You Take. The rest of Temple is in a similar vein, thoughtful lyrics, catchy tunes and an imaginative production, very clean but yet mostly without the glossy 80s feel that ruined many recordings of that era.

Temple may not be the most joyful records around but it is a fantastic grower that is still worth listening to today. With hindsight, this was a hint of what lay around the corner with Woodface, which combined the best qualities of Crowded House's first two releases and later Together Alone, creating an alchemy of what they had previously done, taking that one step further by making a masterpiece.

Average customer rating:

Don't Stop Now, Pt. 2
Crowded House
Manufacturer: EMI Int'l
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:

Don't Stop Now
Don't Stop Now
Time on Earth
Time on Earth
Farewell to the World

ASIN: B000QUU2P2
Release Date: 2007-07-02

Tracks:

Don't Stop Now
Don't Stop Now (Video)
Heaven That I'm Making (Live Real World Sessions Webcast)
Mean To Me (Live Real World Sessions Webcast)

Album Description

Part Two of Two. Enhanced pressing of the first CD single pulled from the Australian band's 2007 album Time On Earth, their first studio release in nearly 15 years. Features two versions of 'Don't Stop Now' (Main Version and Enhanced Video) plus two tracks recorded during their Real World Sessions Webcast: 'Heaven That I'm Making' and 'Mean To Me'. Parlophone.

Album Details

2007 Issue of the First Single from the Rejuvenated, Reconnected Pop Legends from Down under that Includes Principle Founding Members Neil Finn and Nick Seymour the Song is Lifted from the Band's 2007 Reunion Album "Time on Earth". Includes Exclusive Video and Two B-side Tracks. "Heaven that I'm Making (Live)" is an Exclusive B-side.

Average customer rating:

Must have for Crowded House fans
Afterglow and Northern Lights
Better Than Most
Songs from the Attic
Nice collection of extra material

Afterglow
Crowded House
Manufacturer: Capitol
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:

Temple of Low Men
Together Alone
Woodface
Crowded House
Time on Earth

ASIN: B00003ZADB
Release Date: 2000-05-23

Tracks:

I Am In Love
Sacred Cow
You Can Touch
Help Is Coming
I Love You Dawn
Dr Livingstone
My Telly's Gone Bung
Private Universe
Lester
Anyone Can Tell
Recurring Dream
Left Hand
Time Immemorial

Amazon.com

The unreleased residue of popular recording careers is typically the stuff of box-set "extra" discs and sometimes suspicious reissue "bonus tracks." Even the Beatles' vaunted Anthology series argued that serving up leftovers as a main course is a risky proposition at best. Afterglow, a collection of 13 surplus tracks from New Zealand popmeisters Crowded House, fares better than most such efforts, if only because of the old-fashioned dedication to songcraft that Neil Finn and company displayed throughout their career. Stretching from the band's pre-signing days ("Recurring Dream" and "Left Hand"), through no fewer than seven outtakes from the band's 1991 standout, Woodface (including some outstanding harmony work between Neil Finn and elder brother and fellow Split Enz mainstay Tim) to sparely produced tracks for an unfinished fifth album, Afterglow possesses a surprising cohesiveness as an album. While there's no stellar pop hits like "Don't Dream It's Over" lurking in this scrapyard, there's enough solid B+ material to perk the interest of Crowded House devotees. --Jerry McCulley

Customer Reviews:

Must have for Crowded House fans.......2007-03-22

I am very pleased with this CD. It is full of the reasons that caused all of us fans to become fans in the first place. I have been a CH fan since their debut CD came out when I was in high school, and this disc is very reminiscent of that era. Enjoy!

Afterglow and Northern Lights.......2006-12-30

Did you like me love Crowded House? Did you spend lonesome nights in wintery Scandinavia (or elsewhere) feeling sparkles of sunshine come from your speakers as Neil Finn gave us his little life lessons and musings? Did you like me perhaps shed a few tears when you watched the Farewell to the World concert from the steps of Sydney's Operahouse on the telly? And have you like me, been craving just one more hit like some recovering junkie? Then buy buy buy buy this afterglow. I recommend it with all my heart. It is after all like a Recurring Dream.

Better Than Most.......2006-05-05

"Afterglow" is Neil Finn and Crowded House's obligatory b-side album that seemingly every band fortunate enough to last past a couple of albums seems to release. Albums comprised predominantly of b-side and "extra" material are notoriously hit-and-miss. Typically, the disc will highlight a few gems that for one reason or another never saw the light of day on a proper album. The disc will also usually highlight several tracks that for very obvious reasons never appeared on an album--they're unfinished or simply not very good.

To some extent, "Afterglow" fits this criteria, with two notable caveats--Neil Finn is such an accomplished and gifted songwriter that the overall quality of the songs is ratcheted up quite a bit. Also, the album also flows exceedingly well considering that it is a hodge-podge of tracks recorded at various eras throughout their career. These two items make the album a worthwhile listen, particularly for anyone who is a fan of the Crowded House/Split Enz/Finn Brothers body of work.

First, let's assess what, exactly, we have here. The vast majority of the material consists of outtakes from the "Woodface" sessions, a period for the band when Neil's brother Tim joined them and they were, in Neil's own words, especially prolific. Internal conflicts notwithstanding, it's virtually beyond question that the Woodface era was the most productive time for the group. We also have two tracks (the catchy "Recurring Dream" and the perennial live favorite "Left Hand") recorded before the band was signed to a label. A couple of holdovers from the "Together Alone" sessions are here, as is a stunning acoustic rendition of that album's standout track, "Private Universe". Finally, the disc has a home demo from Neil, and the only finished track from the sessions that were to be the never-completed fifth album for the band. So we are given an abudance of material to sift through.

In Neil's comments about various tracks on this album, he talks about how hearing some of these songs now makes him re-think why they weren't originally included on their respective albums. I have to agree. The thoughtfulness and attention paid to many of these tracks--from arrangements to lyrics and production--mimics tracks that did make it onto the album, so it's easy to picture some very contentious arguments between the band members about what should or should not make it onto an album. "I Am In Love", "Sacred Cow" and the phenomenal "Time Immemorial" are but a few of the highlights of this collection.

As with all works penned by Mr. Finn, the listener can easily become swept up in Neil's personal lyrics about life, love and--by his own admission--nothing in particular. This particular collection--more so than any other Crowded House album--shows a very personal side of Neil. Songs such as "I Love You Dawn" (a love song for his wife) and "Lester" (an acoustic demo Neil wrote the night his dog, Lester, had been hit by a truck) give listeners a rare glimpse into Neil's own private life (universe?).

Still, the fact remains that this *is* a b-sides album, after all, and so you're going to get some less-than-stellar material. "Dr. Livingston" is a rare political song from the group, and is a good example of why Neil and the group typically stayed away from such songs throughout their career. "Left Hand", always a favorite live, comes off as sterile and under-performed in the studio. "My Telly's Gone Bung", the only track penned by the band's drummer, Paul Hester, is quickly forgettable.

Regardless, fans of the band and Neil's solo work will find plenty to enjoy in this collection. Not a good starting point for exploring the canon of works of this Aussie-by-way-of-New Zealand group, it nonetheless does a satisfying job collecting the various odds-and-ends the band produced throughout their career, and shows why Neil Finn is rightfully considered to be among the greatest pop songwriters of his generation.

Songs from the Attic.......2005-11-28

Afterglow, the result of some spring-cleaning by Crowded House, gels like a proper album. It is dominated by the preparation for Woodface and the Together Alone sessions at the New Zealand beach village of Karekare. There are some excellent songs here that were never released, or seemed inconsequential when they came out as B-sides. It reveals a lot not only about Neil Finn's perfectionism, but also about the band itself. With all the acclaim of Finn as a songwriter, it's often overlooked that Crowded House was a true band glued together by its rhythm section and harmonies.
This is instantly apparent from the opening number. `I Am in Love' is compelling; it must have kept all of Karekare awake the night it was recorded. The band's chemistry and rapport is obvious, and it shows what a loosening of the bowels those sessions were. `You Can Tell' is also a rescued B-side; recorded at Karekare one night after Paul Hester took an early shower, Finn's guitar and drumming explore a raw nerve.
A sparse version of `Private Universe', all harmonies and reverb, completes the visit to Karekare, but `Help is Coming' - recorded nearly three years later - has the same atmosphere. It dates from the wet winter of 1995, when Crowded House spent a unsatisfying month recording in Auckland. By then, Peter Jones was on drums; he brought the R&B out in Nick Seymour's bass playing, an Al Jackson to Hester's Keith Moon. Seymour's basslines weren't so much walking as wandering, a melodic counterpoint that added to the musical mood.
In 1989-90 (as described in my book Something So Strong) Crowded House was in limbo. Seymour was briefly out in the cold, and Neil was finding more success writing with Tim than for a follow-up to the rich Temple of Low Men. The absolute gem is `I Love You Dawn', a captivatingly simple romantic acoustic ballad that will enter the canon of great love songs. Similarly heartfelt and charming is `Lester', Neil's serenade to the family dog, written after the dalmatian caught a car.
The songs meant for Woodface show how crucial it was to start over and bring in the Finn brothers' co-writes to give the album its strength. `Sacred Cow' and `Anyone Can Tell' reveal Mitchell Froom's method of patching together unrelated choruses and verses doesn't always lead to a `Fall At Your Feet'. (Froom astutely declared the waltz `Time Immemorial' was "too folky"; he also felt Woodface was too long.) Also from the abandoned Woodface rough mix, `Dr Livingston' never takes off, and while `Left Hand' has a ballsy `Come Together' groove, it's like an after-hours improvised wig-out.
Was that the word "Beatlesque"? There are worse slurs, and Crowded House pulled it off better than most. But `Recurring Dream', the earliest song here - a dated, one-riff relic from 1985 - is not enough to resurrect the Pete Best of the group, original guitarist Craig Hooper, and Hester would be the first to admit his slight `Telly's Gone Bung' was "Ringo's song on the album".
Thanks to its strong opening, variety but consistency, Afterglow can be seen as a worthy fifth album rather than an archaeologist's dusty discoveries.

Nice collection of extra material.......2003-04-26

Not quite a "lost album", but almost. Afterglow collects 13 tracks, the "Odds and Sods" of the group's career, as the Who might say. If it were an actual album, it might have been the group's third best, although by nature, the album is a little disjointed. As far as tone goes, the album leans more towards the brighter aspects of the Crowded House and Woodface albums, as most of the songs were recorded in those periods.

The album is a nice collection that flows pretty well, and there are probably a number of groups that would like a collection of songs this strong to be their greatest hits album. The best songs here are "Recurring Dream", a jangle-pop number that predates the group even being called Crowded House; "I Love You Dawn", a pretty love song penned by Neil Finn for his wife, and "Time Immemorial", a folky ballad that was to have closed the Woodface album. Also look for drummer Paul Hester's vocal spotlight on the silly "My Telly's Gone Bung". He's no Ringo, but on the plus side, he's no Ringo. That makes sense if you think about it.

Don't start with this one, but no fan of Crowded House will dislike this album.

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