Top 10 Alert!
Song#: 2985 Date: 01/17/1987
Debut: 85
Peak: 2
Weeks: 24
Genre: Alternative Rock
Pop Bits: When the New Zealand band Split Endz ("I Got You," #53, 1980) broke up in 1984, members Neil Finn and Paul Hester decided to start a band of their own. They brought on two more musicians and became The Mullanes in 1985. The quartet got signed to Capitol Records, but one member left soon after and they were reduced to a trio just before work began on their self-titled debut album. It was finished in the summer of '86 and released in a few countries including Australia. Three singles were issued out from the LP. They all charted in Australia, but none went higher than #23. Then this fourth single got released and it became a bigger hit reaching #8. It got to #1 in New Zealand. With their profile raised, it was time to try and expand to other territories including the US. The song would be the first taste of the band in the States and it was well liked nearly topping the Pop chart while getting to #9 AC and #11 Rock. The hit would help their debut LP reach #12.
ReduxReview: I've always kind of considered this the 80s version of Procol Harum's 1967 #5 classic "Whiter Shade of Pale." The organ was a tip off that the Procol Harum song was definately an influence. It worked very well. The opening lines of this song were indelible, especially "try to catch the deluge in a paper cup." The verse then led to the lovely "hey now" chorus that made the song even more memorable. The tune's folk-rock feel wasn't necessarily normal for pop radio at the time so it stood out. It was an excellent debut and one that has lasted long past its initial hit days.
ReduxRating: 8/10
Trivia: Double Shot! 1) The video for this song was a winner as well. It was nominated for four MTV Music Video Awards. It won the band the Best New Artist trophy. 2) When it came time for the band to record the album, they flew to L.A. for the sessions headed up by producer Mitchell Froom. The three band members were given a place to stay in a small home located in the Hollywood hills. There was not a lot of room to spare with three guys, luggage, instrument, etc. When their label requested that the band change their name, as they didn't like The Mullanes, the members thought of their tiny digs and decided to rechristen the band Crowded House.
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