Crowded House have to impress their fans with this new album Intriguer, as this time around they don’t have the novelty of being newly reunited, or the tragic death of a past band member, to help incite curiosity and sell albums.
As the album begins, they do not disappoint. It starts off strong with Saturday Sun and Archer’s Arrows with the recognisable Crowded House percussion sound, upbeat and fun. It takes a swing to the slow beat of Amsterdam, showing the darker side of the band and some of Neil Finn’s famously great lyrics, before swinging back to the cheery beat of Either Side.
Neil’s son Liam and his psychedelic guitar join the album for Falling Down and Isolation, where the band are trying something different with more of a folky feel. Also contributing to some tracks is Neil’s wife Sharon whose delicate voice contributes to a new folk sound.
Even If and Inside Out aren’t as exciting musically, but are worth a listen to for the lyrics – Neil is back with his poetic lyrics: “taking them out, the imposter, put a monkey in his place; the hazy sun, circling; spin off chandeliers”. Lisa Germano steps in and contributes her violin skills to Even If and Archer’s Arrows.
The album finishes off with one of the better songs, Elephants. This feels like old-school Crowded House mixed with the new folky feel and some impressive piano. Overall the album has a feel of experimentation with mixing and electronic sounds combined with their past style of percussion and Neil’s well-recognised voice.
Crowded House fans won’t be disappointed with this album – it’s a tribute to their past whilst still looking forward to the future.
