I picked up a copy of Neil's third long awaited solo album. He's been busy over the years with all of the various projects he's involved himself with. Some of which include a collaboration album with his Brother (Tim), reforming Crowded House so far has involved two brand new studio albums and world tours to support them, a new 7 Worlds Collide Project, starting a new band with his wife and a national tour with Paul Kelly. His resume is looking the most diverse it ever has.

He hasn't had a solo outing since 2001's One Nil, an album which I consider to be the lesser of his solo discography. But, Wendy and Lisa were amongst his band for that album so there might be something in it for Prince fans yet. The new album, Dizzy Heights, is a return to form and is not only his best solo album but his best overall project since 1998's Try Whistling This. This isn't a stripped back, raw, acoustic affair. Produced by David Fridman, it's lush with strings, loops and atmosphere. Neil is clearly channelling the likes of Bowie, Massive Attack, Sigur Rós and perhaps even a little bit of Prince.

His love of The Beatles, The Mammas and The Pappas, and Neil Young is still present, but it's dealt with on a much more diverse and experimental sonic palate. If, like me, you've been a bit divided on his works over the previous decade, pick this one up. Although the last decade wasn't bad, it wasn't quite Neil at his best as some of it was a bit predictable. This one sees him back at the top of his game, love it. If there's a better album released from the South Pacific in 2014, I want to hear it.

[Edited 2/6/14 4:45am]

I can't wait for this album. Released here on Feb. 11. I also just got 5th rw tix for his show in SF on 5/1. He's thre real deal & if you haven't already check out the webcasts he's been doing prepping for the new tour, off the hook!

Wow, just got the album Dizzying Heights. It's a masterpiece, easily best of 2014 so far.

Mr. Finn knocks it outta the park. This is the type of music that everyone should get the chance to hear. Can't wait to see/hear this ilve!

It may be a little over-experimental for me, haven't decided just yet, needs a few more listens. It's in a similar vein as the Pajama Club album from a couple of years back, slightly funky. Favourite tunes: Dizzy Heights (soulful summer tune), White Lies & Alibi's (dark, bitter and twisted), Recluse (classic Neil melody)

Im really enjoying this album. I hear too many influences to mention. Ok, I'll mention one; I clearly hear strains of Secret Machines all over this. Dope album!

Feeling it now, great little album, especially the 2nd half of it. One of those addictive albums that gets better with every listen. And do i even detect a little bit of Prince influence in there?

Loved it from the first listen, but Neil is as consistent an artist as there has ever been. "Flying in the Face of Love" is still my favorite track, but "Recluse," "White Lies and Alibis," and "Better Than TV" are all up there. "The Lights of New York" is definitely the weakest IMO, but it's grown on me. Love the two bonus tracks too! "Your Next Move" harkens back to Neil's Split Enz days while "Animal vs. Human" sounds a lot like Lennon.

Yes!, the bonus tracks are great, "Animal Vs Human" in particular, glad it's on the CD version. "Lights of New York" is beautiful in a weird Lou Reed "Berlin" kind of way. The only track which i can't really decide if i like or not is "Divebomber", the lead single

Toofunkyinhere said:

Yes!, the bonus tracks are great, "Animal Vs Human" in particular, glad it's on the CD version. "Lights of New York" is beautiful in a weird Lou Reed "Berlin" kind of way. The only track which i can't really decide if i like or not is "Divebomber", the lead single

Ha, I love "Divebomber"! It's weird as all get out, but one day a couple months back it just crept its way into my head and it's been there ever since. Neil has that effect!