The Finn Brothers: Everyone Is Here: The Album (2005)
Created | Updated Mar 19, 2006
After the release of One Nil, the distinctive sound of NZ acoustic rock seemed to fade from the radio a little: but not any more. Neil Finn is back. The latest collaboration from him and brother, Tim, Everyone is Here, proves that both are still formidable songwriters.
While unmistakeably Finn, this album is still different to anything the brothers wrote with Crowded House, having a much more homely, laid-back feel. Tracks such as Disembodied Voices, and Nothing Wrong With You are more reflective than previous material. But, Neil and Tim prove they can still rock with the best of them: Anything Can Happen and Part Of Me, Part Of You, will have you strumming away on your air guitar in no time.
There are also some surprises in store. Homesick and Gentle Hum are in a similar vein to Neil's solo work, with the former track having a very noticeable nod to Sheryl Crow, one of Neil's collaborators on One Nil. Despite the subdued title, the song is musical sunshine, and scarily catchy, whilst Gentle Hum sounds as if it would be a good choice as an audience sing-along number at a live gig. It is surprising then, that it did not feature heavily on the set list on their recent tour.
However, the tour was conducted in difficult circumstances. After the sad news that Paul Hester, the former drummer with Crowded House, had committed suicide, it was only right that any extra space on the set list was given to some Crowded House numbers as a tribute to Paul.
In fact, the only track on the album that is perhaps a reminder of Crowded House is All God's Children, which has a distinct Woodface vibe to it, akin to maybe Fame Is or Tall Tree.Edible Flowers on the other hand, seems to sum up the Finns' new perspective: Simultaneously uplifting and sad at the same time, the lyrics are thoughtful and wise.
If you have not heard any of Neil Finn's work before, this is an excellent album to start with. It is a must for any old Crowded House fans, and followers of Neil and Tim who are keen to know what they are up to now.
