Crowded House

Farewell to the World
$21.94
I know quite a number of music fans who avoid "live" albums in favor of studio recordings. They perceive that the live albums sometimes do not add much over the studio recordings, and in some cases even detract from the band's overall quality of output if the performance is too sloppy or the recording is not well-produced. Well, here we have a live recording that is well worth anyone's time, and adds something significant to the band's already sterling catalog of recordings.

Crowded House wasn't the most prolific of bands, but what they recorded was some of the best music of the 80s and 90s. Their albums were filled with incredibly well-written songs that betrayed a depth of insight into the human condition that is rare in popular music. Here, the songs shine in a live setting. The band approaches the material with reverance and looseness, never sounding like they are just going through the motions. An enthusiastic crowd adds a vibrant energy to the performance, and Neil Finn seems to easily establish a real rapport with his fans. The song choices are smart, balancing more lively numbers with introspective ones to vary the mood enough to hold the listener's interest. With two CDs, there is plenty of material covered. This was the perfect way to exit the public stage (temporarily as it turned out), and the band seems legitimately appreciative of this opportunity to leave on such a high note.

This is one of the best live CD sets available and I recommend it for anyone.

Recurring Dream: The Very Best of Crowded House
$11.94
I love this compilation, however, am I the only one missing a certain song? From the Tequila Sunrise soundtrack? Which would be "Recurring Dream"? What gives? I think that exclusion was either a glaring error or on purpose. Maybe there was an issue with film rights or something. Oh well. Enjoy your music without the hangover.

Best of Crowded House (Pvg)
$16.95
This is music that goes on and on - timeless and perfect. Neil Finn is Genius!

Temple of Low Men
$11.98
This disk shows songwriting maturity for the Crowded House folks. The melodies are haunting and lovely, the lyrics poignant, and the arrangements more sophisticated. Neil Finn, drummer Paul Hester, and bass player Nick Seymour play tight as usual, and their vocals blend into sweet harmonies. This disk opens with a powerful rocker, "I Feel Possessed" which is a fine example of these musical strengths. "Kill Eye" is another straight ahead driver, with great lead vocals by Neil. "Into Temptation" is a brilliant song, with a lovely melody and lush string arrangements. "Mansion In the Slums" is an interesting tune. "When You Come" is a great example of dynamic command with it's swirling arrangements and choral harmonies. "Sister Madly" has a skiffle sound, with bare snare drums and acoustic guitar, which drives to a powerful chorus. "Better Be Home Soon" is the poignant conclusion, a somber homecomeing song with wonderful keyboard strings which call upon the keyboard lines of "Don't Dream". This disk did not sell as well as other Crowded House releases, but the songwriting displays a more mature sound. I think this is a very memorable disk, full of overlooked, yet great songs.