A Split Enz Reunion: More Finn-ish Magic

by adworken
7 February 2006

NEIL FINN and I go way back. And, although he may not know it, the New Zealand native has spent a great deal of time in my company. During my rebellious, high school metal stage, I still secretly jonesed for the music of SPLIT ENZ. Later on, in my pretentious indie rock college years, I favored the unrepentant sincerity of CROWDED HOUSE. And as the years have passed, Neil Finn has released a couple of solo records that have spoken to me in truly profound ways. I’m aware of the intensity of such hyperbole, but in truth, it’s an understatement. As uncool as this may sound, I completely heart Neil Finn.

Just last week, it was announced that Finn’s original band Split Enz are to reunite for a short Australian tour (to be accurate, Split Enz was really brother TIM FINN’s band first). While Split Enz are local legends in their homeland, they’re simply a one-hit wonder in America, so there’s a good chance they’ll never make it to New York. And for shame: Seeing Finn live under any circumstance is a religious experience. He’s a consummate performer and a gracious musician, performing his songs with professional expertise.

While discussing the reunion with a group of friends via email, I volunteered to make them a Finn-centric mix. Much to my surprise, more than a few jumped at the offer. It seemed that the pristine, intelligent pop of Neil Finn has had a profound impact on others as well. Either that, or free mixes are always cool.

Below is a sampling of some of the songs I put on those two CDs (yes, I filled up two CDs). In this age of downloading, these are the songs to discover first. Enjoy.

1. “Private Universe” – Crowded House

Finn’s most haunting moment. Look for the acoustic version from the b-side compilation Afterglow.

2. “Driving Me Mad” – Neil Finn

An addictive song concerning Finn’s writing block. If this is writing block, then I don’t want to be prolific.

3. “Pineapple Head” – Crowded House

Fittingly titled, for it is sweet and tart like a ripe pineapple, this song’s lyrics were inspired by the nonsensical warbling of his temporarily-ill son, whose scorching fever rendered him delusional.

4. “I Got You” – Split Enz

The New Zealand band’s only Stateside hit.

5. “Only Talking Sense” – Finn Brothers

Finn’s songs alternate between pop euphoria and harmonious, albeit sad, depth. This song from his first Finn Brothers collaboration is the latter.

6. “Everything Is Good For You” – Crowded House

Usually songs written for greatest hits compilation are throwaways (Recurring Dream), but Finn is incapable of disappointing us. “Everything Is Good for You” features one of the most stunning bridges of all time.

7. “Lullaby Requiem” – Neil Finn

A song dedicated to Finn’s father after he passed away. A most bittersweet elegy.

8. “Wherever You Are” – Neil Finn

This is the sound of a man yearning to be with his wife when their physical distance is daunting.

8. “Message to My Girl” – Split Enz

The perfect Valentine’s Day song. Like a good Hallmark card, “Message to My Girl” speaks on behalf of the unexpressive.

9. “She Will Have Her Way” – Neil Finn

The closest Neil Finn will ever get to “rocking out.”

10. “Fall at Your Feet” – Crowded House

Perhaps one of the most stunning songs of all time. After hearing a room full of people harmonize along to Finn as he played this song solo with just an acoustic guitar, I can safely back up that bold statement.

In the meantime, Finn is working on a new record, but until then, please feel free to contact me regarding more Finn-centric recommendations.

Filed under new wave