A Welcome Return
When a band reform there's always plenty of concern about quite what drove them to it and whether they'll be able to live upto their earlier successes, with Crowded House this is also tinged with sadness about the death of drummer, Paul Hester, to whom 'Time On Earth' is dedicated.
The reformed group sound like they fit well and it's great to see them produce a new album of fresh material rather than plug old hits live, there's clearly a creative impetus behind the reformation and 'Time On Earth' is a fine record that will please more than just old fans.
Lead single, 'Don't Stop Now' features Johnny Marr's guitarwork, it's an upbeat, softly spoken number that moves smoothly along over bright guitars that do have Marr's unique tone about them. In contrast another highlight is the piano-based number, 'Pour Le Monde', a slow, melancholic number that reflects on the search for purpose in life with big chords that will really stir your soul.
'Even A Child' co-written by Neil Finn and Johnny Marr is a jangly tune with a discontent, riled up underbelly and sweeping, almost falsetto chorus that could really get caught in your head. 'Silent House' with its fuzzy guitars and peaking chorus is a catchy number and perhaps has the scope to be a potential single as it changes moods as quickly as the weather and shows the best of Crowded House's songwriting. The jazzy, slick vibes of, 'Walking Her Way Down', are enough to get you moving and have a timeless feel. 'Transit Lounge', named after a massive part of any touring band's life, is a funky 80's ambiance with psychedelic vocal harmonies; it feels as fresh as when the band debuted.
Is there a place for Crowded House in 2007? Yes of course and with some lovely rich tunes and the hip influence of Johnny Marr perhaps they'll charm some new fans, although they'll never be the kind of band teens could admit to liking.