The Album of the Month for August is Gravity Stairs, the latest album by iconic Australian/New Zealand band Crowded House, best known for their melodic tunes and heartfelt lyrics. The album is a delight – tender, bright, psychedelic, and packed with childlike wonder.
For an album that’s been described as a metaphor for aging and becoming aware of one’s mortality, it never feels bleak or hopeless. If anything, Neil Finn and his sons Liam and Elroy, mainstay Nick Seymour and producer-turned-fulltime-band-member Mitchell Froom, provide the light the world needs.
A true family affair, three of the songs were born from the creative minds of Liam and Elroy Finn, and they’re all album highlights: The Howl, I Can’t Keep Up With You, and Thirsty. And it’s fair to say that with his sons in the band, Neil Finn has pulled additional ideas from the energy and innocence of youngsters, especially with lead single Oh Hi.
The album cover is a homage to the Beatles Revolver album, and has been beautifully illustrated by Nick Seymour. Overall, Gravity Stairs is a solid addition to Crowded House’s discography, showcasing the band’s evolution while staying true to their signature sound. Fans old and new will find something to love on this album, making it a must-listen for anyone who appreciates well-crafted pop music with a soulful edge.
