Album Review: CROWDED HOUSE - Time on Earth

Parlophone 00946-396 007-2-4
Review copy supplied by Abels Music, Canberra

Reviewed by Tony Magee

Hi readers. I’m back for just this one issue, covering for Tim Hansen whilst he is away in New York at the international composers forum, Bang on a Can, which by the way, he is having the time of his life at.

Well, the hottest thing around at the moment seems to be the new Crowded House album, Time on Earth; so naturally, I am compelled to review it for you! Let’s dive straight in and say that it is excellent, highly listenable, catchy, and playable over and over again.

There are no real “buts”, however I merely point out, and it’s obvious to all who listen anyway, that the innovative qualities that made them so special in the first place are not really present any more. By this I mean - it’s more of the same - and many people will be grateful for that. Ever present are the clear uncluttered arrangements, economy of instruments, but played to full potential, rich vocal lines, and sometimes unusual melodic progressions.

This is one of those very pleasing albums where there are no “dud” tracks. Everything is composed and performed to the highest quality and there is that usual evenness of sound and solidity of line and form to every track. However, I can’t help feeling the album really doesn’t start hitting its straps until near the end, with the last three tracks. In these, there seems to be something extra in the musical development, the thought behind the lyrics, the ambiance, which is a very excellent way in which to finish off a project like this. In fact it’s usually the opposite way round. There are so many albums where second-rate tracks are plonked in at the end just to fill it up. This album starts very well and finishes with the highest quality stuff last. What a great plan.

Stylistically, there are many bopping tracks that can be great for listening or dancing, groovin’ and toe tapping, oozing the body around every solid beat. Some of the other tracks, particularly the later ones are more reflective and deserving of even higher praise. My copy is the limited edition set, which is fantastic value at $29, because you get the 14 track album, plus a bonus DVD of film clips and photo gallery. Great packaging as well.

Tony’s rating:  4 stars

First published in Eat Drink Magazine and Our Hotel Magazine, August 2007