Neil Finn: Brothers Again, and Return of the House

Neil got some great merchandising advice somewhere, because from here on, most CDs feature "Expanded Editions", most often a bonus DVD with bonus tracks and live versions. Yeah, it sucks that the initial CD comes out, and then later, presto-change, bonus stuff! Oh well, maybe it's a label decision...


                                                                                                                                                        
 In 2005, we get Finn Brother, Mach 2: "Everyone Is Here". Sigh. There are some excellent songs, and the DVD extras are really special, but...I don't know, there must be some strict timetable involved that requires Neil to release an album, ready or not. Again, some VERY good songs, but the program/skip button got a workout. I do watch most of the DVD tracks a lot, and for sheer inspiration, "Anything Can Happen" (both CD and DVD versions) is primo.

Then, in 2007, Neil reforms Crowded House and releases "Time On Earth". It's dedicated to late drummer Paul Hester, whose recent suicide was devastating to family, band and fans alike. As someone who has a number of family members who suffer from depression, the specter of suicide is always the unwelcome guest at the party, the unspoken question, the dark cloud. Suicide can seem like the only way out when you're in a dark, painful space. Only if you're lucky enough to have the clouds clear can you see how wrong that thinking is. I don't think it's the selfish choice we sometimes paint it as, but afterwards, the pain remains, nothing is fair, nothing makes sense, and the wound never really heals.

So it's no surprise that "Time On Earth" album sounds sad and emotionally raw. I respect Neil's courage and determination to forge on, but despite contributions from Johnny Marr and the Dixie Chicks, it's too sad. But at least Neil sports his latest spiky/tousled haircut!

...2010, and Crowded House releases "Intriguer" -- sigh of relief, thank God, it's not great but it sounds like a band on the mend. This one also comes with a DVD featuring 'live in the Neil's den' footage, and we get to see Sharon Finn singing back-up.

This album is a refreshing collection, and Neil's absurd mustaches lend welcome humor. Neil's charity work continues, with another version of the 7 Worlds Collide project released (unheard by me). Nice to see that the random (?) bandmates of the earlier project find ways to continue the partnerships. More evidence that family is one of the Finn cornerstones.