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Review and Photos by Damien Harvey

Crowded House’s return to the O2 Arena on October 11, 2024, was nothing short of magical. With their unique blend of heartfelt lyrics, infectious melodies, and a touch of humor, they managed to create a night that felt both intimate and grand, reminding everyone why their music has endured across generations.

The band made a surprising choice by opening with Weather With You, a song so beloved that many expected it to close the night or feature as part of the encore. Yet, as Neil Finn’s voice soared over the familiar chords, the O2 audience immediately stood to their feet, singing along to every word. It was an unorthodox move, but it set the tone for a night where expectations were joyfully subverted.

A key feature of this tour is the presence of Neil Finn’s sons, Liam and Elroy, now part of the band. Liam Finn even kicked off the night with a solo performance, showcasing his musical versatility with a blend of loop pedals and multi-instrumental flair. His set was a creative prelude, building anticipation for the main act.

As the night progressed, it was clear that the band’s classic 1991 album, Woodface, was at the heart of the show. Though the setlist spanned their pre-2020 catalog, many of the night’s standout moments were from Woodface. The crowd was swept up by the dreamy harmonies of Four Seasons in One Day, the buoyant energy of It’s Only Natural, and the emotional pull of Fall at Your Feet. Even deeper cuts like Whispers and Moans and Fingers of Love were met with rapturous applause, proving the enduring power of these songs.

Crowded House were in top form, both musically and in terms of stage presence. Neil Finn’s voice was as rich and resonant as ever, and the band’s playing was tight yet relaxed, as if they were rediscovering the joy of performing together. Between songs, they treated the audience to a series of amusing gags and stories, most notably recounting an incident the day before when Liam Finn’s phone was stolen in London. There was even an unexpected bit about Kendrick Lamar and Drake’s rivalry, which had the audience laughing and wondering how that topic made its way into a Crowded House gig. These moments revealed the band’s playful side and kept the atmosphere light and engaging.

Another highlight was a mid-set discussion about the differences between Australian and New Zealand accents, a fitting debate given the band’s roots down under. Neil Finn, ever the storyteller, kept the banter flowing, and it was clear that the band was enjoying the chance to interact with their fans again.

As the night drew to a close, the encore delivered a perfect mix of nostalgia and surprise. They played Something So Strong, followed by Some Greater Plan (for Claire), a touching dedication that had more than a few fans misty-eyed. They closed with Better Be Home Soon, a poignant reminder of the enduring themes of love, longing, and home that have always defined their music.

Neil Finn hinted that there’s more music on the way, which was met with cheers from the crowd. It seems that Crowded House isn’t quite ready to close this chapter, even though you could sense a bittersweet awareness that this might be their last tour before retirement, given their initial split back in 1996. Yet, as they took their bows to a standing ovation, the band seemed genuinely grateful and exhilarated, relishing this new chapter in their journey.

For long-time fans, this was a night to cherish with full of familiar favorites, unexpected delights, and a sense of connection that only a band like Crowded House can deliver. And with the promise of new music on the horizon, it’s a good time to be a fan.

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