The product of all this was an impressive self-titled debut album. Crowded House (1986) is best known for its worldwide hit, "Don't Dream It's Over," which seems to be one of those songs everyone knows even if they tell you they don't. By no means, though, does this song tower above the others, for this is an album that it is enjoyable from start to finish.
The bouncy "Mean to Me" gets things going and sets the tone for the album. Telling the tale of an obsessed fan, it is a mixture of light and dark, as many of the songs seem to be. The next track continues this theme. "World Where You Live" is just as fun and catchy, but there is more than a hint of edginess when Finn sings "But I don't know where you go/Do you climb into space?/To the world where you live."
Perhaps the highlight of Crowded House is "Hole in the River," which is an emotional tale about the death of Finn's aunt. Any album which contains a song that is better than "Don't Dream It's Over" must be pretty good, and this certainly is. Combining Finn's brilliant singing voice, his vivid imagery and a frenzied instrumental section this is a piece of music which alone shows just how good the band and album are.
It also shows just what Crowded House were about. The amazing melodies, searching lyrics and excellent musicianship provide a complete musical experience, something that was constant through their 10-year, four-album career. In fact, the biggest compliment that can be paid to this fantastic band is that this was their worst record. It may sound familiar but any group that can point to such a great album as their worst must be pretty good.
RATING: 8.5/10
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