Finn [Import]

Product Description
Unavailable for many years, 'Finn' (1995) has been re-released to coincide with The Finn Brothers' 2004 album. This album is the first time Neil & Tim Finn have teamed up since Crowded House's 1991 album 'Woodface'. Highlights include 'Eyes Of The World', 'Last Day Of June', 'Angels Heap', & 'Where Is My Soul'. EMI. 2004.

Finn,Finn,EMI,Pop,Rock/Pop

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Finn [Import]

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 General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Similar Items: Farewell to the World Easy Tiger Beauty & Crime Sweet Warrior Our Love to Admire ASIN: B000Q9OD7G Release Date: 2007-07-10

Tracks:

1. Nobody Wants To
2. Don't Stop Now
3. She Called Up
4. Say That Again
5. Pour Le Monde
6. Even A Child
7. Heaven That I'm Making
8. A Sigh
9. Silent House
10. English Trees
11. Walked Her Way Down
12. Transit Lounge
13. You Are The One To Make Me Cry
14. 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: 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 General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Indie Rock | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Australia & New Zealand | International | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Similar Items: History Never Repeats: The Best of Split Enz Time on Earth Farewell to the World Crowded House The Best of Simple Minds ASIN: B000002U5B Release Date: 1996-07-23

Tracks:

1. Weather With You
2. World Where You Live
3. Fall At Your Feet
4. Locked Out
5. Don't Dream It's Over
6. Into Temptation
7. Pineapple Head
8. When You Come
9. Private Universe
10. Not The Girl You Think You Are
11. Instinct
12. I Feel Possessed
13. Four Seasons In One Day
14. It's Only Natural
15. Distant Sun
16. Something So Strong
17. Mean To Me
18. Better Be Home Soon
19. 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: Wonderful Big River: The Adventures Of Huckleberry Finn AMERICAN GOLD Best Musical - 1985 One of the Greats

Big River: The Adventures Of Huckleberry Finn (1985 Original Broadway Cast) Roger Miller Manufacturer: Decca U.S. ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Country | Styles | Music Honky-Tonk | Country | Styles | Music Nashville Sound | Traditional Country | Country | Styles | Music General | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music The Decca Records Store | Specialty Stores | Music Similar Items: Big River Shenandoah (1975 Original Broadway Cast) Pippin (1972 Original Broadway Cast) Little Women The Musical (2005 Original Broadway Cast) Curtains (2007 Original Broadway Cast) ASIN: B000002O4T Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

1. Overture
2. Do Ya Wanna Go To Heaven?
3. The Boys
4. Waitin' For The Light To Shine
5. Guv'ment
6. Hand For The Hog
7. I, Huckleberry, Me
8. Muddy Water
9. The Crossing
10. River In The Rain
11. When The Sun Goes Down In The South
12. Entracte
13. The Royal Nonesuch
14. Worlds Apart
15. Arkansas/How Blest We Are
16. You Oughta Be Here With Me
17. Leavin's Not The Only way To Go
18. Waitin' For The Light To Shine (Reprise)
19. Free At Last
20. Muddy Water (Reprise)

Amazon.com

This unjustly forgotten masterpiece was in many ways the last great creative gasp for the late, great country songwriter-singer Roger Miller, who died in 1992. After he wrote countless country gems like "Invitation to the Blues," "King of the Road," and "Dang Me" during the 1950s and '60s, Miller's creative muse ran dry in the early 1970s. The drought continued until he made a remarkable comeback by penning the 20-song score and contributing vocals to the soundtrack of this 1985 Broadway adaptation of Mark Twain's literary classic. Big River still stands as a dazzling, heartwarming slice of musical Americana and the final crowning achievement in one of country music's most celebrated careers. --Bob Allen

Customer Reviews:

Wonderful.......2007-03-24

This is a very cute musical. Do not be fooled this is a mark twain book, not your Dr.Suess. So use caution and don't buy this unless you can listen to the quality of music and not nessicarily the lyrics. But I love the story and it is a great buy. But seeing it live is really good. I enjoyed it. The best song is the Royal Nonesuch.

Big River: The Adventures Of Huckleberry Finn .......2007-03-10

This is one of the best musical i have heard. wide range of music plus some that you will want to sing everytime. This is a must get

AMERICAN GOLD.......2007-03-06

Many people probably only know Roger Miller from the somewhat goofy songs that he wrote, but he was truly a genius who wrote and performed a variety of songs. There is such a variety of songs here written in several different styles. Some of the serious songs are fully as good as the lighthearted songs. This truly does show what an amazing person Roger Miller was and his mastery of many different types and styles of music. After listening to the music, I would love to see a stage production of this, as I never have. There aren't many show albums that sound interesting enough to make you want to go see the play, but this one sure does. I guess the only disappointment is that Roger Miller doesn't perform any of the songs himself. Most of the songs are quite short (averaging probably around two minutes each), but much of Miller's output consisted of short songs. Perhaps it is because he could say more in two minutes that many song writer's could in four (or more). It's a shame that this hasn't become more well known and performed more often. Cats (for example) had a very long run and some people think it was awful.

Best Musical - 1985.......2006-12-29

Winner of the 1985 Tony for Best Musical, Roger Miller, best known for his sixties classic "King Of The Road", provides a fine score for this adaptation of Twain's "Adventures of Huckleberry Finn". The cast, led by Daniel Jenkins, Ron Richardson, John Goodman, Rene Auberjonois & Patti Cohenour, are terrific & have great voices to match.

While the score is not without its flaws, there are several excellent songs:

Waitin' For The Light To Shine
Guv'ment
Muddy Water
River In The Rain (my personal favorite)
Worlds Apart
You Oughta Be Here With Me
Leavin's Not The Only Way To Go

One of the Greats.......2006-12-24

This is simply one of the greatest musicals of our time by one of the best song writers,"The King of the Road," Roger Miller. So many wonderful songs will just leave you with a goofy smile on your face. ENJOY IT!!!

Average customer rating: Great fun, but not for the little ones! Love it!!!! Good but not great Charming musical TERRIBLE.

The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee (2005 Original Broadway Cast) William Finn , Rachel Sheinkin , Derrick Baskin , Dan Fogler , Jesse Tyler Ferguson , Deborah Craig , Lisa Howard , Celia Keenan-Bolger , Jose Llana , Jay Reiss , and Sarah Saltzberg Manufacturer: Ghostlight Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Similar Items: The Light in the Piazza (2005 Original Broadway Cast) Dirty Rotten Scoundrels (2005 Original Broadway Cast) Monty Python's Spamalot (2005 Original Broadway Cast) The Drowsy Chaperone (2006 Original Broadway Cast) Little Women The Musical (2005 Original Broadway Cast) ASIN: B0009A1AMS Release Date: 2005-05-31

Tracks:

1. The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee
2. The Spelling Rules/My Favorite Moment Of The Bee 1
3. My Friend, The Dictionary
4. The First Goodbye
5. Pandemonium
6. I'm Not That Smart
7. The Second Goodbye
8. Magic Foot
9. Pandemonium Reprise/My Favorite Moment Of The Bee 2
10. Why We Like Spelling
11. Prayer Of The Comfort Counselor
12. My Unfortunate Erection (Chip's Lament)
13. Woe Is Me
14. I'm Not That Smart (Reprise 2)
15. I Speak Six Languages
16. The I Love You Song
17. Woe Is Me (Reprise)
18. My Favorite Moment Of The Bee 3/Second
19. Finale
20. The Last Goodbye

Amazon.com

When was the last time you heard a musical with a truly hilarious book? Rachel Sheinkin has concocted such a thing for The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, one of the most unexpected hits of 2005. Unfortunately, Sheinkin's wit is mostly lost on a cast album; fortunately, the show's songs are by the great William Finn. Set at the titular event, the musical never looks down on the competiting kids (played by adult actors), instead portraying them as endearingly nerdy but also smart, and endowing them with real personalities rather than predictably spelling-bee tics. The cast is uniformly superb, although personal faves include Sarah Saltzberg, playing Logainne Schwartzandgrubenierre with a delicious lisp ("Woe Is Me"); Jesse Tyler Ferguson, bringing sweet innocence to Leaf Coneybear ("I'm Not That Smart"); and Dan Fogler, in a breakout comic performance as William Barfee ("Magic Foot," sounding like a sly tribute to Kander & Ebb). This show may be small in scale, but it's a huge winner. --Elisabeth Vincentelli

Other Great Musicals of the Season

Spamalot	Dirty Rotten Scoundrels	The Light in the Piazza
Little Women	All Shook Up	Altar Boyz

Customer Reviews:

Great fun, but not for the little ones!.......2007-03-15

We thought this was great fun, very engaging in the tradition of the modern musical. Just be careful, there are a couple of cuts that are not for "the wee ones". But, my 2nd and 4th grader love all the other songs. They love "Magic Foot" in particular. We just skip past the "mature" material. I suggest you listen to it first so you know what to skip.

Love it!!!!.......2007-03-08

This is a great cd. I loved it when I listened to it, but loved it more after I saw the show.

Good but not great.......2007-02-06

I'd heard the opening number as well as "The I Love You Song" upon which I decided I'd like to listen to the entire soundtrack. I liked the concept behind the musical and thought it would be fun.

Upon first listening I have to say I was slightly disappointed. The style of singing is all the same: strong and loud and the melodic movement of the songs is generally all the same with lots of long notes that generally get prety annoying after awhile.

Some positives though...The songs move through the progression of the bee quite nicely with the "Goodbye" Songs and "My Favourite Moment From the Bee" songs adding a nice theme to the whole score.

"The I Love You Song" is still a personal favourite but "Woe is Me" is also a strong song and parts of "Pandemonium" with it's upbeat rhythm are toe tapping and enjoyable.

The characters are varied but their songs don't really do them justice.

Good but not great.

Charming musical.......2007-01-10

Spelling Bee has a cute score with a number of memorable tunes. While the overall theme is quite comical, there are a few more serious moments when one of the characters talks about her absentee mother. "Magic Foot" is a total scream. This should be on the shelves of all lovers of musical comedy.

TERRIBLE........2007-01-04

I am a huge fan of musicals and I was really excited to go see this one. I'd heard good things about it and I enjoy nothing more than sitting down in a theater and watching a good musical.

Sorry guys, it was AWFUL. The music was semi-decent, there weren't really any standouts although the I love you song tugs at your heartstrings a bit. But the heart of the matter is, there was NO STORY and NO PLOT whatsoever! I was so disappointed! It stayed in act 1 the entire show and never climaxed. The plot was "once there was a spelling bee. A bunch of kids competed until one of them won" (and really, nothing more happens than that.)

In comedy, things are more flexible and you don't necessarily have to have any structure to your story (although it generally makes for a better and more memorable show) but in this case, it wasn't even funny! I think I laughed twice throughout the whole show, and they were sort of halfhearted chuckles, like, wow, I can't believe they just told that overused joke... again.

I think that's the only reason they bring people in from the audience to improv a little bit (but don't leave much room for improv, anyway) - because if they didn't it would be so boring and pointless that people would be leaving the theater. I only stayed around because I kept thinking, "there has to be some point to this. There has to be some interesting twist at the end that makes it all worthwhile. Maybe nobody wins, and somebody learns something." And then it ended, and I was sorely disappointed.

Again, the music wasn't bad, but it certainly wasn't anything special. Most of the songs just blend together and sound the same. William Finn doesn't understand the concept of musical variance. The majority of the songs describe the characters' history but NOTHING EVER HAPPENS to any of them. That's not a story.

Anyway, enjoy the music if you're into it, but don't go see the show. It's a waste of time and money.

Average customer rating: Look closely or you'll miss him (and this little gem)

Imaginary Kingdom Tim Finn Manufacturer: Manhattan Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Time on Earth Farewell to the World Palms & Runes, Tarot & Tea: A Michael Penn Collection Before & After Sweet Warrior ASIN: B000OMD4B6 Release Date: 2007-04-24

Tracks:

1. Couldn't Be Done
2. Still The Song
3. Astounding Moon
4. Midnight Coma
5. Salt To The Sea
6. Horizon
7. Dead Flowers
8. Resting (Your Hand Lightly)
9. Show Yourself
10. Winter Light
11. So Precious
12. Unsinkable

Customer Reviews:

Look closely or you'll miss him (and this little gem).......2007-06-08

After a long absence Tim Finn is back in his new album, which are few and far between. Imaginary Kingdom is solo musical brilliance brimming with balance between thoughtfulness, hopefulness, and Finn's own imaginations. Its a shame that this album doesn't seem to get much of the recognition it deserves. Seldom found in any music stores and rarely reviewed. But then again Tim Finn always does seem to linger in the background off stage somewhere, where it would seem he is most comfortable. I was lucky enough to encounter this album after hearing his song "Winter Light" located in the end credits of "The Chronicles of Narnia" last year. Some of you may be familiar with it if you purchased the soundtrack. I liked what I heard and so checked out his music here on Amazon (what a handy little place) and soon became familiar with most of his work. This by far seems to be his best. It comes across as being well planned and conceived in that dilligent sort of fashion that only a compulsive solo artist can posses. You remember that air of beginnings and icy new adventure that "The Chronicles of Narnia" left you with? Well this is more of the same thing. It reminds me of that 'light that lingers in a quiet room' that Finn sings about in "Winter Light".

The first song sets a note of determinedness with "Couldn't Be Done" followed by melodical "Still the Song" alas, too short, like many of George Harrison's own works. "Astounding Moon" is thought provoking as it looks up at the nighttime sky in wonder. These first three tracks really play as the heart and soul of this album until you get down to what the second half has to offer. "Salt to the Sea" is a melancholic kind of story where Tim Finn stops off to contemplate life, and a journey, until you get to hopeful "Horizon". Other keys to this CD are "Resting Your Hand Lightly", "Show Yourself" and of course "Winter Light", all of which carry musical harmony.

So there it is, just another overlooked album from 2006 that at least deserves a listen. And if you like it enough check out Finn's other CDs[...]. Tim Finn might not be a very prolific singer, but he is definitely not short of any brilliance as you will soon find out.

Enjoy.

Average customer rating: I very much liked Crowded House, but I ADORE this album...More than 5 stars! One of my favorite albums of all time Neil's least interesting project for decades Essential Great crisp lyrics...great crisp sound.

Try Whistling This Neil Finn Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Australia & New Zealand | International | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Pop Rock | Pop | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Pop Rock | Pop | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Rock General | Rock | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Rock General | Rock | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Alternative General | Alternative Rock | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music 4-for-3 Alternative Rock | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 International | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 Pop | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 Rock | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: One Nil Afterglow Together Alone Everyone Is Here Finn ASIN: B000007QDC Release Date: 1998-06-16

Tracks:

1. Last One Standing
2. Souvenir
3. King Tide
4. Try Whistling This
5. She Will Have Her Way
6. Sinner
7. Twisty Bass
8. Loose Tongue
9. Truth
10. Astro
11. Dream Date
12. Faster Than Light
13. Addicted

Amazon.com

Neil Finn's solo debut carries much the same style and tone of his work with Crowded House--the intimate vocal delivery, the undeniably intelligent pop approach. What Try Whistling This lacks is a couple of cuts to break up the tastefulness that washes over everything; there's no noise like "Locked Out," no full-on heartbreak like "Better Be Home Soon." That's no reason for fans of the singer/songwriter not to buy this, but it's hard to see how it'll win many new listeners over to this occasional genius's side. --Rickey Wright

Customer Reviews:

I very much liked Crowded House, but I ADORE this album...More than 5 stars!.......2007-02-26

Stumbled upon it when a local station played a song from it, the song hit my soul, I immediately bought it and I have played the CD to death. I mean, I am downloading it to itunes right now and noticing how somewhat worn it sounds. I will need a new copy.
Oh the melodies, so unique. The intricate rich arrangements,the fabulous musicians, the rhythmic beats that carry the melodies, Neil's incredibly emotional and beautiful voice, the deep lyrics that get better each time ... I can not go on enough about this beautiful incredibly artistic heartbreaking album. One of the best of all time. The man is a complete muscial genius, and now when I hear Crowded House I love THEM all the more. But this, this is truly an overlooked piece of musical perfection.

One of my favorite albums of all time.......2006-09-13

I became a Neil Finn fan late in the game, long after Crowded House had disbanded.

I'm a big CH fan now, but I am equally in love with this CD, which CH and non-CH fans alike should embrace equally. The lush opening strings of "Hand Me Down," the eerie, emotional darkness of "Sinner," the beautiful chords of "Faster Than Light," the unusual and quirky arrangements, all make this album an absolute classic.

Personally, I enjoyed this album much more than "One Nil"/"One All," which I think is more sappy and overproduced.

I wonder when he'll come out with his next one?

Neil's least interesting project for decades.......2006-05-13

I've been a Neil Finn fan practically my whole adult life. First I become exposed to his brilliance via I Got You, the break through song of Split Enz a quarter of a century ago. That album, True Colours, is jam packed with great melodies and fun arrangements. Although their later albums did not match that peak, they were still enjoyable. When Crowded House became huge, I liked their albums ever more. Their first one, despite including the classic Don't Dream It's Over, is their least interesting one but during the final album, Together Alone, Neil Finn and Crowded House were making among the best music of that era.

I was obviously very excited when Neil Finn released (Try Whistling) this album; what would he deliver this time being alone and apparently with all the freedom to experiment? Before hearing the album in its entirety, I heard She Will Have Her Way and Sinner, both great tracks and worthy classics. She Will is a straight forward song in a Beatles-esque fashion whilst Sinner is a dark moody track with a haunting rhythm. Sadly, these were the only tracks worth any attention. The production of the album is very flat, everything very professional like but lacking an edge. The songs really never come to life. I tried several times listening to the album, hoping I would get it, but no, this is for me an album that lacked a creative spark, something I can't say about anything else I had heard by Neil Finn (his next studio album, live album and recent one with his brother are for example much better). Actually, this is the only Neil Finn release that has been a favorite of mine.

It is interesting but this album gets high marks from many reviewers, actually most reviewers. My sister and one of my best friends are also big Neil Finn fans. Their reaction to this album was, however, almost identical to mine, close to being boring and not living up to expectations. It was also a commercial failure so it will remain a mystery to me how many people enjoy it. My advice, however, is to leave this one alone and listen to practically everything else by Neil Finn.

Essential.......2005-02-16

Try Whistling This is a great album. Neil Finn is at his songcrafting peak with this, his first solo album, and Crowded House's last album, Together Alone. Every song is a good one on this album.
Neil has released two albums since, another solo and one with his brother Tim. But neither of these compares with Try Whistling This or Together Alone. If you like melodic pop with good wordsmithing this album is for you.

Great crisp lyrics...great crisp sound........2004-10-30

You know who Neil Finn is right? I hope you answered yes. Everything this man touches musically turns to gold. He is my favorite songwriter, and I think he has the best voice in music. His lyrics can be nebulous, but I always feel his emotion in his music. The instruments Neil uses in all of his works have an earthy quality to them. He makes good use of the organ thanks to his long-time companion Mitchell Froom on the Hammond. Neil Finn is the most underrated musician in the U.S. and maybe the world. I feel more emotion from his music than 90% of the top 40. Every track on this CD should be listened to carefully. My favorite track is probably "Sinner," but "King Tide" is right behind it. I usually have a least favorite track, but all of the other tracks are tied for 2nd. This is a gem for anyone out there who enjoys smart lyrics combed with melodies galore. The cover artwork for this CD was done by Neil's son Elroy. Elroy did a fine job too.

Average customer rating: Fathers & Sons Hauntingly Wonderful Tells The Story Road to Excellence! MY MOM !!

Road to Perdition (Score) Thomas Newman Manufacturer: Decca U.S. ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music The Decca Records Store | Specialty Stores | Music Soundtracks | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: The Shawshank Redemption: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack American Beauty: Original Motion Picture Score The Green Mile: Score from the Motion Picture The Horse Whisperer: Original Score Angels in America ASIN: B000068D1A Release Date: 2002-06-25

Tracks:

1. Rock Island, 1931
2. Wake
3. Just The Feller
4. Mr. Rance
5. Bit Borrowers
6. Murder (In Four Parts)
7. Road To Chicago
8. Reading Room
9. Someday Sweetheart
10. Meet Maguire
11. Blood Dog
12. Finn McGovern
13. The Farm
14. Dirty Money
15. Rain Hammers
16. A Blind Eye
17. Nothing To Trade
18. Queer Notions
19. Virgin Mary
20. Shoot The Dead
21. Grave Drive
22. Cathedral
23. There'll Be Some Changes Made
24. Ghosts
25. Lexington Hotel, Room 1432
26. Road To Perdition
27. Perdition - Piano Duet

Amazon.com

Director Sam Mendes's much-anticipated follow-up to his Academy Award ^®-winning American Beauty found him exploring the period gangster film--but with a moral fiber and undercurrent of family tragedy familiar from his Oscar ^® triumph. As he did with Beauty, Mendes again wisely entrusts the film's music to Tom Newman, a composer with an instinctive knack for getting inside a film's characters via innovative and often orthodox methods. As many of Newman's preceding scores have been rhythmically driven and rife with improvisation-driven experimentalism, its good to hear his equally distinctive writing for orchestra largely take center stage here again. But Newman's inquisitive musical instincts can't be denied, and his melancholy string writing is leavened first with subtle uilleann pipe flourishes that echo the characters' Irish-American roots, then with savory, yet ever-restrained touches of his own ethnic-defying instrumental color and rhythmic accents. It's another moody and introspective gem, seasoned with some lively period jazz (courtesy of the Charleston Chasers, Fletcher Henderson and his Orchestra, and Chicago Rhythm Kings) and a warm, final surprise: a duet of John M. Williams's autumnal title track performed by none other than stars Tom Hanks and Paul Newman. --Jerry McCulley

Customer Reviews:

Fathers & Sons.......2007-05-13

After losing my Father back in October, I began reaching for things that reminded me of him. One of the things I reached for was the score for the Road to Perdition. Although my Father was gravely ill the day I took him to see the film, it ended up being a day not soon forgotten. I am listening to the soundtrack as I write this review. Fathers and Sons.

Hauntingly Wonderful.......2006-12-18

This soundtrack is amazing. Like Shawshank Redemption, Newman's music colors the film, reveals character, and highlights themes. I've listened to this soundtrack dozens of times, and I still love it. From the mournful "Piano Duet" to the driving "Lexington Hotel", this is a great purchase regardless of whether or not you liked the movie.

Tells The Story.......2006-04-12

Wonderful soundtrack. If you've seen the movie, you can listen to these tracks and almost guess what or who they are written for in the script. I think Thomas Newman is the drummer of their composer family, because almost all of his music has the underlying ryhthms that make you tap to the beat (even though this is classically orchestrated music), with music that perfectly breathes the air of the times it was written for.

Road to Excellence!.......2006-03-14

I own both the movie and the score, and I have to tell you, this film would not be half of what it is without this gorgeous, mellow, and sometimes violent and aggressive score. It really carries the film, and I think it even surpasses it some. Newman really outdid himself this time!

MY MOM !!.......2006-02-27

I COME LATE TO THIS MUSIC!! I SAW THE MOVIE ABOUT 2 WEEKS AGO!! I LOVED THE MUSIC, BECAUSE IT REMINDS ME OF MY MOTHER!! SHE SAID SHE LIVED AT THIS TIME IN THE 1930'S. THE MUSIC IS HAUNTING LIKE SHE TALKED ABOUT HER CHILDHOOD. THE LOVE, VIOLENCE, AND HUMANITY,WHICH YOU FEEL IN THE MUSIC!! CLOSE YOUR EYES AND JUST LISTEN AND IMAGINE!!!

Average customer rating: Great Songs from the Finn Brothers... Disembodied Voices It's slow parade down a dusty road The Finn Bros, sophomore album debut It sounds So-o-o Good!

Everyone Is Here The Finn Brothers , and Finn Brothers Manufacturer: Nettwerk Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Similar Items: Try Whistling This Afterglow Finn Time on Earth Neil Finn - Sessions at West 54th ASIN: B0002H6O9M Release Date: 2004-08-24

Tracks:

1. Won't Give In
2. Nothing Wrong With You
3. Anything Can Happen
4. Luckiest Man Alive
5. Homesick
6. Disembodied Voices
7. A Life Between Us
8. All God's Children
9. Edible Flowers
10. All Of The Colors
11. Part Of Me, Part Of You
12. Gentle Hum

Amazon.com

Ever since the demise of New Zealand popsmiths Crowded House back in the late '90s, brothers Neil and Tim Finn have been content to plough their furrow far from pop's bustling farmstead. Everyone Is Here, the pair's second full-lengther, lacks the full production and grand, Beatlesesque melodic ambitions that saw songs like "Weather With You" and "Fall At Your Feet" become transatlantic radio hits--but it replaces such scope with a smudged, intimate acoustic style that suits Neil and Tim's songwriting talents almost as neatly. The album's finest moments are mostly placed towards the top end: "Luckiest Man Alive" is the sort of conscious rock gospel that Stereophonics' Kelly Jones would kill to be able to write, while "Anything Can Happen"--a billowing, U2-style epic of scintillating guitar and cavernous drum-crashes is seemingly placed to prove that not all is trad chez Finn. As an album, it probably won't spawn any MTV-hogging video classics--certainly, that was never the intention--but Finn fans in search of a mellow listen should find Everyone Is Here hits all the right buttons. --Louis Pattison

Customer Reviews:

Great Songs from the Finn Brothers..........2007-07-25

I've had this since it came out but recently realized that I hadn't reviewed it. After getting and listening to the new Crowded House CD "Time On Earth" I began compiling a new All-Time-Finn-Favorites CD.

What I found when doing this was that I could not leave off most of the track on this CD. All these songs here are good. Yes, many deal with family and focus on the brotherhood but they're also well written wonderful songs.

1.) Won't Give In: Is a great opener with thoughtful lyrics. Love it.
2.) Nothing Wrong With You: Great!
3.) Anything Could Happen: Wonderful...could have been the opening track.
4.) Luckiest Man Alive: Stripped Down, Simple and Honest. Great!
5.) Homesick: Love it.
6.) Disembodied Voices: This one and the next song examine their brotherhood. Both are wonderful.
7.) A Life Between Us: See Above
8. All God's Children: Great Rocker! Sounds like it was recorded live.
9.) Edible Flowers: Loved it when it premiered on the 7 Worlds CD/DVD and love it more here all fleshed out with strings.
10.) All The Colours: Great!
11.) Part Of You Part Of Me: Another great rocker.
12.) Gentle Hum: Nice ender...beautiful.

All in all...A VERY satisfying CD for me. Like all Crowded House and Neil Finn CD's it's well worth picking up.

Disembodied Voices.......2007-04-21

I know 'Everyone Is Here' is a few years old, but it's good to get this out before the new Crowded House disk drops later this year. This CD got lost in my collection and I never really played it much - and never at an entire sitting. But for the last few weeks it has resided in my car and much of the time in the player. Most of the stuff here is not radio accessible. At least not the way radio is currently programmed. There are no hit singles. I'm not sure there were any singles - none in the U.S. anyway.

'Everyone Is Here' is not a Crowded House disk. Nor is it a Split Enz record. Heck, it's not even the same as their last disk together, 'Finn Brothers'. For those unfamiliar, both Finns were in Split Enz and appeared together on one Crowded House disk.

Personally, I am a fan of Tim Finn's, and he is clearly the winner in this outing. He gets to play off his more popular, more accomplished younger brother, Neil. Tim does not posses as keen a knack for the popular song and his voice is not as polished. So his songs, like "Luckiest Man Alive" get a good, probably better, recording than they would have on a solo outing.

Neil does good with his main songs also. It's no surprise "Won't Give In" and "Nothing Wrong With You" lead off the disk. They are seemingly the strongest, but the more you listen to the rest of the disk, there is some really good stuff out there. It just takes a few listens.

I'm really liking "A Life Between Us". The lyric provides a river as a metaphor as a relationship. That has been done a lot in music, and usually it is about flow. But the words here take a new stab at it and succeeds: "we stare at each other/like the banks of a river/and we can't get any closer/but we form a life between us". The melody helps.

And though the Finn boys are from New Zealand, the song "Homesick" is a perfect metaphor for America and the politics of the day - 3 years ago and even today. "First you made me hungry/then you feed me something I don't want/...then when I complain/I get thrown out of the restaurant" and "Homesick for the country that I'm living in". I can relate.

Technically they don't have the best harmony (i.e. "Disembodied Voices"), but it seems but it really work. And yeah, there are some clunkers, but I am really enjoying the disk and sorry it took me so long to find it, even though I had it the entire time.

It's slow parade down a dusty road.......2007-04-02

Having been a long time fan of Tim and Neil Finn from the days of Split Enz (and having seen Tim Finn solo and a Crowded House show on a night when Roger McGuinn played with them), I am always ready to hear new music by them. That would qualify to anything either together or apart. This 2004 duo album has everything you would expect from them; shimmering brotherly harmonies, excellent songwriting and the occasional dip into sly humour ("We're all God's Children/and God is a woman/but we still don't know who the father is").

I certainly have enjoyed this CD for awhile now, but I kept waiting for the moment when Neil and Tim would cut loose with something with a bit more bite to it. "Anything Can Happen" is the most uptempo thing here, while most of the rest of "Everyone Is Here" sticks to simple arrangements and acoustic settings. It fits the brothers quite well and makes this CD a pleasant experience. But I am not used to pleasant from a pair of men that have often delivered brilliance.

If you are willing to settle of Tim and Neil delivering gentle ruminations on relationships and family, then this will please you. And there are some excellent, melodic tunes to be had here (my favorite songs are "Nothing Wrong With You" and "Disembodied Voices") with some great Beatles leanings, but I kept waiting for more. As a result, I maintain my rating of the CD with three stars; competent and average, and certainly worth a listen.

The Finn Bros, sophomore album debut.......2006-10-02

This is the Finn Bros second album from their self titled album release in 1997. They were also the front men for the now defunct 'Crowded House' eclectic rock group. The Finn Bros hail from New Zealand but now call Eastern Australian home. 'Everyone is Here' is the brothers new album after 6 years quietness. I first listened to 'Won't Give In' their new single hit song on one of our rock stations in sydney and was drawn into its beautiful sound. That's why I purchased this album.

In saying the above, I did enjoy this album immensely. The Fin Brothers are definitely talented and have a firm rock sound frame to their groove. All the songs have a different sound to them and show the unique skill of Neil and Tim's vocals as they were both singers on this album. This album was balanced and had a good listening quality to it. My other favourite songs from this decent album were 'Disembodied Voices', 'All God's Children' and 'Edible Flowers' which was the quietest song on this album with a malancholy feel to it.

'Part of Me, Part of You' has been played alot on Sydney radio and deservedly so with a nice lyrical message and a feel good beat. The album ends with a sombre mood in 'Gentle Hum' that sounds like your in the Southern USA.

Overall this album for me was enjoyable and a pleasure to listen. The Finn Bros are easy to listen to and rock to or sing along to. For any serious rock fan out there - add this album to your collection.

It sounds So-o-o Good!.......2006-07-22

I was never a Crowded House fanatic -I was more into Split Enz, if the truth be told. But credit needs to go where credit is due. This album is simply a delightful collection of harmony songs, put together by some of the creative heirs of the Byrds and the Beatles. The sound of this album is just lovely - it floats. Roll over Jayhawks and tell the Eagles the news. Miles better than the last Finn Bros production. In all honesty, the songs are probably not as classic as some of the earlier Finn Bros stuff, but this still makes the grade.

Average customer rating: Amazing. Buy this cd. Haunting melodies, great cast You may need a new Brain after listening to this "Poor, unsuccessful and fat... and getting older.."

A New Brain (1998 Original Cast) William Finn Manufacturer: RCA Victor Broadway ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music Traditional Vocal Pop | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Musicals | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: Elegies - A Song Cycle by William Finn A New Brain: Vocal Selections Spring Awakening (2006 Original Broadway Cast) The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee (2005 Original Broadway Cast) Infinite Joy: The Songs of William Finn (Live at Joe's Pub) ASIN: B00000ADLO Release Date: 1998-09-15

Tracks:

1. Prologue: Frogs Have So Much Spring ('The Spring Song') - Malcolm Gets
2. Prologue: Calamari - Malcolm Gets/Liz Larsen/Kristin Chenoweth/Chip Zien
3. Prologue: 911 Emergency/I Have So Many Songs - Michael Mandell/Kristin Chenoweth/John Jellison/Liz Larsen/Keith Bryon Kirk/Mary Testa/Malcolm Gets
4. Heart And Music - Keith Bryon Kirk/Malcolm Gets/Liz Larsen/Mary Testa/Penny Fuller/Norm Lewis/Kristin Chenoweth...
5. Trouble In His Brain - John Jellison/Penny Fuller
6. Mother's Gonna Make Things Fine - Penny Fuller/Malcolm Gets
7. Sailing - Norm Lewis/Malcolm Gets
8. Family History - Kristin Chenoweth/Michael Mandell/Penny Fuller
9. Gordo's Law Of Genetics - Kristin Chenoweth/John Jellison/Keith Bryon Kirk/Liz Larsen/Michael Mandell/Mary Testa
10. And They're Off - Malcolm Gets/Kristin Chenoweth/John Jellison/Keith Bryon Kirk/Liz Larsen/Michael Mandell/Mary Testa
11. Just Go - Malcolm Gets/Norm Lewis
12. Poor, Unsuccessful And Fat - Michael Mandell/Malcolm Gets/Chip Zien
13. Sitting Becalmed In The Lee Of Cuttyhunk - Malcolm Gets/Kristin Chenowetih/Penny Fuller/John Jellison/Keith Bryon Kirk/Liz Larsen/Norm Lewis...
14. An Invitation To Sleep In My Arms - Liz Larsen/Penny Fuller
15. Change - Mary Testa
16. Yes - Malcolm Gets/Chip Zien/Kristin Chenoweth/John Jellison/Keirth Bryon Kirk/Liz Larsen
17. In The Middle Of The Room - Malcolm Gets/Penny Fuller
18. Throw It Out - Penny Fuller
19. A Really Lousy Day In The Universe - Mary Testa/Norm Lewis
20. Brain Dead - Malcolm Gets/Norm Lewis
21. Whenever I Dream - Liz Larsen/Malcolm Gets
22. Eating Myself Up Alive - Michael Mandell/Kristin Chenoweth/John Jellison/Keith Bryon Kirk/Mary Testa
23. The Music Still Plays On - Penny Fuller
24. Don't Give In - Chip Zien/Malcolm Gets/Norm Lewis/Liz Larsen/Penny Fuller
25. You Boys Are Gonna Get Me In Such Trouble/Sailing (Reprise) - Michael Mandell/Norm Lewis/Malcolm Gets
26. The Homeless Lady's Revenge - Mary Testa/Malcolm Gets/Norm Lewis
27. Time - Norm Lewis/Malcolm Gets
28. Time And Music - Keith Byron Kirk/Malcolm Gets/Mary Testa/Kristin Chenoweth/Penny Fuller/Christopher Innvar...
29. I Feel So Much Spring - Malcolm Gets/Mary Testa/Keith Bryon Kirk/Kristin Chenoweth/Penny Fuller/Christopher Innvar...

Amazon.com

William Finn is an acquired taste. Not only is this lyricist-composer one of the few proponents of the (mostly) sung-through musical, but he favors unlikely subjects. His 1992 musical Falsettos was about love, a bar mitzvah, AIDS, and mortality; A New Brain deals with a brain tumor and art and, yes, mortality and love. Both witty and touching, the show displays Finn's melodic gift and his talent for suggesting sentiment without sentimentality. The supporting cast, including Chip Zien, Kristin Chenoweth, and Penny Fuller, is a collection of New York's finest stage actors, each of whom gets at least one splendid song. In the lead, Malcolm Gets allows the listener direct access into Gordon Schwinn's innermost emotions. An acquired taste, yes, but one that will linger in your memory and heart. --Elisabeth Vincentelli

Customer Reviews:

Amazing........2007-04-08

A New Brain is amazing. If you like only musicals of the Oklahoma! or Phantom of the Opera varities, this show may not be for you. But it literally saved my sanity.

I'm a Broadway nerd who had a year-long health crisis, and I bought this soundtrack because I'd heard it was set in the middle of someone else's crisis. It's brilliant. First, "And They're Off," has to be one of the best Broadway songs I've ever heard--it's this amazing combination of Menken (from Little Shop...) and lyrics that would make Sondheim proud...or even a little jealous. Maybe I'm crazy, but I think I can hear the beat of the MRI machine behind "Sitting Becalmed in the Lee of Cuttyhunk,"...that's so different and cool.

I can hear a little bit of formula in the show--"Heart and Music" reminds me of "Welcome to Falsettoland," "Brain Dead" is reminscent of "The Chess Game," from March. There are other similarities too--you'll hear strains of "Anytime" from Elegies near the end (which, I believe, was originally cut from this show). But this show is far from formulaic--"Gordo's Law of Genetics," "Poor, Unsuccessful and Fat" and "Yes," are laugh-out-loud funny. "Sailing" is a gorgeous ballad that I'd like to hear more men sing in auditions...and then there's "Eating Myself Up Alive," which is, simply put, amazing.

Finn fans will love it--Sondheim purists might, too. I know I do.

Buy this cd........2007-01-19

I loved this show when I saw it - and I was reminded of just how much when I pulled out the cd again recently. This is an incredibly strong score, beautifully performed.

Norm Lewis breaks my heart. Penny Fuller is a goddess. Mary Testa is a gift from heaven.

This show is a joy.

Haunting melodies, great cast.......2005-09-09

I really love this piece! My only complaint is Kristen Chenowyth is underutilized, but other than that, some really great songs. "Heart and Music," "I Feel So Much Spring Within Me," and "Gordon's Law of Genetics" (really fun) are all great. My favorite, however, is "And They're Off." Amazing!
I wake up with a song from this musical in my head almost every morning. I haven't listened to it since last weekend, but today (5 days later), I awoke with Kristen singing "I love Mr. Bungee" in my head. It makes waking up early a lot easier!
Thank you, William Finn, for another wonderful musical that makes being a theatre fan so worth it!! I hope I'm able to see a production of this piece one day...

You may need a new Brain after listening to this.......2005-05-27

While listening to this, you'll be a little (okay, a LOT) hesitant at first. BUT! It is great. Once you've heard Will Finn's music, you will be changed. Creative, darkly humerous, just corny enough to not scare you off. Think of music from a basic book musical mixed lyrics from something like Avanue Q. It's a great combination and a HIT!

"Poor, unsuccessful and fat... and getting older..".......2004-07-29

I had the very great honor of being cast as Richard, the Nice Nurse in my university's production of this show. Not only was I in love with this show's soundtrack, I was given the honor of singing my favorite song, "Eating Myself Up Alive". The show is beautiful and awe-inspiring, with a dash of Broadway star-power and wicked humor.

William Finn has crafted the surreal yet very realistic world surrounding him during a life-threatening brain condition. After miraculously surviving, he claims that he just couldn't stop writing.

Malcom Gets heads this show off as the main character, a sarcastic jerk named Gordon Schwinn. His performance is strong, and leaves nothing to be desired. In fact, the entire cast is sharp and create memorable, fun characters. Penny Fuller, Chip Zien, Michael Mandell and the lovely Kristen Chenoweth make this a musical filled with gorgeous songs that will have you humming for weeks on end. If you get an opportunity to see this show, don't pass it up. This is a sharp, fantastic musical. Don't miss "Sailing", "Gordo's Law of Genetics", "An Invitation to Sleep In My Arms", "Eating Myself Up Alive" or "Time and Music". Perhaps the only hang up in the album is the overrated theme of the show, "Heart and Music" which is a bit corny, and definitely feels a little hollow. Otherwise, you're in for a treat.

Average customer rating: One Big Step Forward "Wherever you are" - Thank you Neil More music of transcendental beauty I want to love this... the best

One Nil Neil Finn Manufacturer: EMI Int'l ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Australia & New Zealand | International | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Alternative Rock | Imports | Stores | Music Rock | Imports | Stores | Music Similar Items: Try Whistling This Neil Finn - Sessions at West 54th Finn Afterglow Time on Earth ASIN: B00005ABX9 Release Date: 2001-04-16

Tracks:

1. Climber
2. Rest of the Day Off
3. Hole in the Ice
4. Wherever You Are
5. Last to Know
6. Don't Ask Why
7. Secret God
8. Turn and Run
9. Elastic Heart
10. Anytime
11. Driving Me Mad
12. Into the Sunset

Album Details

The Follow-up to the Acclaimed Debut Solo Release 'try Whisting This,' by the Former Lead Vocalist of Crowded House/Split Enz. 'one Nil' features 12 Tracks Including the First Single 'wherever You Are', a Classic Dream Pop Song Co-written by Wendy Melvoin

Customer Reviews:

One Big Step Forward.......2007-05-21

Although I seem to be in a minority, I felt that Finn's previous work before this release was a major letdown. That album, Try Whistling This, lacked worthwhile melodies and the production was surprisingly stale considering a Neil Finn project.

From that standpoint, I was not expecting too much from One Nil. Such fears were unwarranted because this is where he should have continued from Crowded House's Together Alone, their finest release IMHO. It was evident straight from the opening track, The Climber, that his originality and knack of writing melodic and yet warm tunes (even those organically produced) was back. Rest of the Day Off follows, giving the opening stages a splendid flow that remains mostly throughout the record.

The production is less dense than TWT and one senses that Neil has regained his confidence which probably took some beating during the final stages of Crowded House.

Highlights include Wherever You Are, Turn & Run (a duet with Sheryl Crow) and Into the Sunset. The only tracks not up to par are Don't Ask Why and Elastic Heart but those are in no way songs one reaches out for the remote for.

This album is definitely among Neil Finn's best work and hopefully a signal that TWT was only a minor sidestep of his consistency in producing among the best work in pop music in recent years and the future.

One last note, the US version, dubbed One All, is even better.

"Wherever you are" - Thank you Neil.......2004-11-01

After four Crowded House albums producing a large songbook of classic songwriting, Neil Finn parted with his band to pursue a solo career. Since Crowded House, Finn has taken an even more personal and sensitive approach to his colourful songwriting. The first solo album "Try Whistling This" was a darker and more sombre alternative to Crowded House and "One Nil" (re-released in America as "One All") is without any exaggeration, probably one of the finest albums of the last 20 years or so.
I do not make such a statement without a number of reasons, and I'm certainly not measuring this albums sheer greatness by commercial success.
Craft, craft and craft, this album from the first moments to the close is an intensive marrying of lyrics, chords, melodies and unique instrumentations creating a complex and beautiful canvas of musical imagery. Neil's chord patterns are just as inventive as his attention grabbing metaphors. This album is filled with classic opening lines such as "Let's go climb up on the roof, in the twighlight" (Secret God), "There's a light overhead, overhead" (Turn and Run) "I've never been to heaven but it feels alright, and I woke up this morning with a permanant smile" (Don't Ask Why) or "Wherever you are, it's 3 am and I'm awake, imagine the light upon your blue transparent face", transparent indeed is a fine description of this album. The songs are 3 dimensional and like most of Neil's music they pull the heartstrings with their warmth of expression and evocative imagery without ever being sentimental. And that's a big plus, it means Neil can write a love song or two to his wife like "Turn and Run", or "Wherever you are" without a cheesy, soppy result!
This album has a very natural and organic feel; it's an uncanny pleasure hearing each song emerge. Through a simplistic chord progression and melody the music is filled with such colour, variety and a haunting energy, this is simply the work of a master songwriter who paints pictures with his voice and mould shapes with his chords.
When I say this is one of the finest albums around, I do acknowledge this albums sheer subtlety. It's not a spectacular concept production like Floyds "The Wall" or Queens "A Night at the Opera." But it doesn't need be - at all. Neil Finn matches Lennon and McCartney's finest songwriting days, and Finn at his finest (I dare say) defeats their post Beatles solo work. If not, Neil makes Noel Gallagher look like a teenager trying to write a song, he even makes the great Radiohead look like they are trying a bit too much to be progressive. Neil Finn doesn't need to try; his musical language speaks all for itself. I hope he will continue a steady stream of wonderful solo albums. This is his best work yet.

More music of transcendental beauty.......2002-11-10

I believe that's how one reviewer once described Crowded House, and if anything, Neil sounds a bit more Crowded House-y on this solo project than he did on Try Whistling This, if only for the presence of Mitchell Froom on some tracks. I vastly prefer this original over the remixed, reordered One All US release for many reasons, not the least of which is that is flows better. One Nil is an album about fidelity and maintaining a relationship, and while Don't Ask Why is a bit of an oddball in that theme, I've always liked it. Much more central to the theme, if indeed one takes this as a concept album, is Elastic Heart, which has some lovely brass work (think Together Alone) and lyrics that speak to the concepts of forgiveness, compromise, and reapprochment - it's not a date song, it's a marriage song, and it's one that means a lot to me. The whole album is highly recommended.

I want to love this..........2002-10-25

...but after a year or so of spinning this in my player, I just can't get into it like I have Neil's other work. After listening for so long, I can't help but think these are good songs severely stunted by misguided production. In so many places on the CD, there are beautiful turns of phrase or melody where some change in instrumentation or tempo or pause or whatever would be perfect to accompany them, but all of these songs are locked in tempo, with no room to breathe and no change in mood or style--supposedly there are real drummers keeping time, too, but you'd think it was drum machine the way it comes off. It's all pleasant enough-sounding music, I guess, but very vanilla in my opinion. I have no problem with the raw material; Neil Finn is a terrific songwriter. But the presentation really bothers me. If I had to contrast, I would say some of the tracks would have been more successful in a "Finn Brothers" (1996) format, intimate and stripped-down. Here it's sing and play to the metronome beat. I paid import price to pounce on this CD when I saw it. It's kind of disappointing. I know, make my own record...That said, even so-so Neil is better than a lot that's out there. He deserves more attention, but newbies won't fall in love with Neil Finn through this disc. Crowded House spoiled me, perhaps...Anyone out there in cyberspace even halfway agree with me? :)

the best.......2002-09-12

I've had this disc for a while, but it only recently made its way into my car CD player. That's when I really listen. And oh, boy, did I listen.

One late night after a party I just got zapped by 'Secret God', mesmerized by the dissonant harmonies that repeated over and over. And it's not even my favorite track - that would probably be 'Driving Me Mad'. But they're all great. Not a single skipper, as they say.

Finn is a great songwriter - I can't think of any better.

Rap Music:

1. Friend's Friend's Friend
2. Heat in the Street [Original recording remastered] [Import]
3. Here Be Monsters
4. Here Come the Nice: The Immediate Anthology 3 CD Set [Box set]
5. I Am The Messiah [Enhanced]
6. I Just Wanna Live [CD-single] [Enhanced] [Import]
7. If Not for You [Import]
8. Indigenous
9. Instant Live: The Odeon - Cleveland, OH, 3/09/04 [Box set] [Live]
10. It's Like This

Rap Music

rap music

Recommended Music:

Only Heaven [Import]

When I Fall in Love

There's a Riot Goin' On

Music: Woman Wisdom

Thicker Than Water [Soundtrack]

Up Close and Personal [Enhanced] [Clean]

Tom Tom Blues

What's the Frequency Kenneth? [CD-single]

Untitled [CD-single] [Import]

The Once & Future Harp

Untold Stories [Import]

The Complete Bethlehem Collection

Unfinished Business [Explicit Lyrics]

Dukas: Villanelle; Gliere: Concerto for horn in Bf

A Hard Road