Crowded House was a New Zealand rock group (though two members were from Australia) of the 1980s and 1990s, based around the songwriting and vocal talents of Neil Finn, one of the former members of Split Enz. The group's output was mainly folk-influenced rock, but Finn's outstanding songwriting skills made them stand out from similar bands. By far New Zealand's most internationally-successful popular musicians, their notable hits include Better Be Home Soon, Something So Strong, Don't Dream It's Over, and the Byrds-influenced Weather with You.
Members of the band included Tim Finn (Neil's brother) in 1990/91, Nick Seymour, Paul Hester (1986-1994), Mark Hart (1993-1996) and Peter Jones (1994-1996).
The group broke up amicably in 1996, marking it with a massively popular free concert on the steps of the Sydney Opera House. However, various members of the group turn up as guest musicians at each other's concerts on a regular basis.
Since the break up, Neil has embarked on a successful solo career and Tim has resumed his. Mark Hart has joined the new incarnation of Supertramp. Paul Hester has become a tv-personality in Australia with his own prime-time show.
Discography
- 1986 Crowded House Singles: Mean To Me, World Where You Live, Don't Dream it's Over, Something So Strong, Now We're Getting Somewhere
- 1988 Temple of Low Men Singles: Better be home soon, Into Temptation, I Feel Possessed
- 1991 Woodface Singles: Chocolate Cake, Fall at your feet, It's Only Natural, Weather With You, Four Seasons in One Day
- 1993 Together Alone Singles: Distant Sun, Locked Out, Private Universe, Pineapple Head
- 1996 Recurring Dream Singles: Not the girl you think you are, Instinct, Everything Is Good For You
- 1999 Afterglow (collection of unreleased tracks from the vaults)
