Crowded House Album: “Farewell to the World”

Yes, the Crowdies were one of the few truly great bands to come out of the '80's. I first read about them in a rave review of their 1st album in the pages of Musician magazine (circa '86), bought the c.d., and have followed their brilliant but less than prolific output ever since.

Those who are reading this review are probably somewhat familiar with the band's history (Split Enz, etc.), but one fact bears repeating for U.S. listeners: Only here were they known as one hit wonders; the rest of the world quickly figured out how good they were and the band's star rose accordingly. In fact, the Very Best of Crowded House (from '96) entered the charts at number one in both England and Australia.

This live c.d. is a welcome addition to their catalogue capturing the band in 1996 in front of 100,000+ in a perfect display of the dual professionalism and looseness of their live shows.

I can't help but recommend the DVD too. In fact if you can only plunk down for one, then get the DVD. I recommend both.

Just so everyone knows, they officially are back together (minus Paul Hester obviously).

Neil and Nick recorded a new album and it should be out later this year with a world tour as well!

They better get the respect they deserve over here in the U.S. finally!!!!

i miss their music. they dont get enough playtime on american radio. it doesnt get better than this live performance. its especially sad to know that at the end of the show they not only said goodbye for the last time to the audience but also to one of their members.

I know quite a number of music fans who avoid "live" albums in favor of studio recordings. They perceive that the live albums sometimes do not add much over the studio recordings, and in some cases even detract from the band's overall quality of output if the performance is too sloppy or the recording is not well-produced. Well, here we have a live recording that is well worth anyone's time, and adds something significant to the band's already sterling catalog of recordings.

Crowded House wasn't the most prolific of bands, but what they recorded was some of the best music of the 80s and 90s. Their albums were filled with incredibly well-written songs that betrayed a depth of insight into the human condition that is rare in popular music. Here, the songs shine in a live setting. The band approaches the material with reverance and looseness, never sounding like they are just going through the motions. An enthusiastic crowd adds a vibrant energy to the performance, and Neil Finn seems to easily establish a real rapport with his fans. The song choices are smart, balancing more lively numbers with introspective ones to vary the mood enough to hold the listener's interest. With two CDs, there is plenty of material covered. This was the perfect way to exit the public stage (temporarily as it turned out), and the band seems legitimately appreciative of this opportunity to leave on such a high note.

This is one of the best live CD sets available and I recommend it for anyone.

I have been a Crowded House / Finn Brothers fan for a long time, but this live CD is amazing. Neil Finn is such a talented and gracious musician and performer. If you are already a fan, this would be a great addition to your collection. If you are new to them, it is a great represenation of their talent and will make you want more. One of the best music purchases I have made this year.