Temple of Low Men

Neil Finn, who had played in the New Zealand band Split Enz as it spread its wings internationally, formed Crowded House with former Split Enz drummer Paul Hester and bassist Nick Seymour, both Australians. Their debut Crowded House (1986) produced the American Top 10 hits ‘Don't Dream It's Over’ and ‘Something So Strong,’ winning many listeners in Europe and Japan as well.

This second album again used Mitchell Froom as producer and Tchad Blake as engineer. Since they had also made Richard Thompson's Daring Adventures that year, Richard plays guitar here. All ten songs are Neil's, inheriting the Beatles' musical genes while taking on a more acoustic feel. I remember being moved by the band's high musical ability and their entertainment value at a Tokyo concert following the album's release. Paul Hester died in 2005.