“It wasn’t about any strategy, it was just a mindset,” says Neil Finn of the reprise of Crowded House. “There was never much chance of a one-off reunion tour. It had to be a rekindling of spirits.” Whatever the reason, the music world is all the richer for welcoming back The Crowdies with their first studio album since 1993’s Together Alone.

The Band arose from the ashes of New Zealand’s foremost New Wave/Glam-Pop group Split Enz, who disbanded in 1984. After a brief stint as the Mullanes, the band settled down and renamed themselves Crowded House in tribute to their congested living conditions. But, in 1996 after giving the world hits like “Weather with You,” “Better be Home Soon” and “Into Temptation,” the band decided to call it a day. After the split, the members continued to be musically active. For a while during 2005, the band did consider reforming, but then tragedy struck as Paul Hester, one of the original members, took his own life and reforming became the furthest thing from everyone’s minds. A little while later Neil Finn started working on a new solo album and at some point during those sessions, the decision was made that the time was finally right for a Crowded House revival.

The result, Time on Earth, is dedicated to the memory of Hester and according to band members, is infused with his energy. Finn also insists that producer Ethan Jones deserves much of the credit bestowed upon the new album: “When we got on the floor and played, something just clicked.” Clicked it did… what we have here is an album that makes you wonder how you managed the last 14 years without any new material from the band. What is clear is that the Crowdies have become a little more serious with the songs all dealing with the times when major events happen in your life. Neil has developed as a songwriter with more depth and integrity in the songs. First single “Don’t Stop Now” does not have the infectious Crowded House stamp like earlier works, but it’s a gem nonetheless and is one a handful of upbeat rock pop tracks. There’s also the laid back "Heaven That I'm making" and "Walked Her Way Down" and the brooding "A sigh" and “Silent House." Thought provoking? Check. Inspiring? Check. Effective melodies and riffs? Check. Yup, it’s a Crowded House album alright.

In an age when new artists become hyped overnight sensations on the internet, declared musical genius after just one album, or dropped after two singles because they didn't reach the top ten, this mature body of work can only come from a group of musicians who have developed their craft over years of experience and the result is pure quality. Fans will rejoice. Don’t dream it’s over guys… the band still has a lot to offer.