Lightsleeper Fan Reviews

slowpogo posted:

Steve Shealy posted:

Sugar Mouse posted:

IainK posted:

I think this is probably the album where I stop caring about Finn releases. Neil (and co) are of course free to persue which ever direction they which to take, but equally it's time to accept that, after what, 4 albums under various guises (solo/PJC & L+N) that I've at best tolerated and at worst think are just diabolical, it is time to check out and stop throwing money after albums I just get no enjoyment out of whatsoever.

Wow.  So sorry to hear that you find no enjoyment from Neil's recent work. I'm a huge fan of the Split Enz/Crowded House stuff and I also really enjoy Out of Silence and Lightsleeper. Dizzy Heights and Intriguer were solid to me but not great. I'm just happy that Neil continues to create.

 Lightsleeper and Out of Silence are STILL so far above most of what is put out by other artists today. 

Can’t really agree...subpar Neil Finn is still pretty good, yes, but there is a TON of great new music out there these days. I could list many but some recent new albums I’ve really enjoyed include The Vaccines, Leon Bridges, Neko Case, Janelle Monae...

Of course, there's a ton of great new music out there. Juien Baker, The National, Death Cab, Sufjan Stevens, Fleet Foxes, Jason Isbel, Courtney Barnett, Matt Pond, Phoebe Bridgers, etc. have all put out great albums in recent years.  That being said, Neil's recent albums are right up there with those albums.  I think the issue with some fans is that they prefer the performance/arrangement style of those early Crowded House albums (jangly upbeat pop) over the more somber, piano-based arrangements on the recent albums.  Neil's songwriting hasn't changed much over the years (great melodies, great classic song structures, etc.) but his arrangements and production have changed. 

Agree that there is good new music out there, I see several names above that I enjoy songs by; Leon Bridges and Jason Isbel to name a couple (though I DETEST the National). But very seldom do I find an artist where I enjoy every song on an album to the extent that I do with Neil. I guess that's down to personal taste. He just never seems to write a song I don't like (ok, maybe Dive Bomber), whereas most other artists are very hit-and-miss.

Sugar Mouse posted:

slowpogo posted:

Steve Shealy posted:

Sugar Mouse posted:

IainK posted:

I think this is probably the album where I stop caring about Finn releases. Neil (and co) are of course free to persue which ever direction they which to take, but equally it's time to accept that, after what, 4 albums under various guises (solo/PJC & L+N) that I've at best tolerated and at worst think are just diabolical, it is time to check out and stop throwing money after albums I just get no enjoyment out of whatsoever.

Wow.  So sorry to hear that you find no enjoyment from Neil's recent work. I'm a huge fan of the Split Enz/Crowded House stuff and I also really enjoy Out of Silence and Lightsleeper. Dizzy Heights and Intriguer were solid to me but not great. I'm just happy that Neil continues to create.

 Lightsleeper and Out of Silence are STILL so far above most of what is put out by other artists today. 

Can’t really agree...subpar Neil Finn is still pretty good, yes, but there is a TON of great new music out there these days. I could list many but some recent new albums I’ve really enjoyed include The Vaccines, Leon Bridges, Neko Case, Janelle Monae...

Of course, there's a ton of great new music out there. Juien Baker, The National, Death Cab, Sufjan Stevens, Fleet Foxes, Jason Isbel, Courtney Barnett, Matt Pond, Phoebe Bridgers, etc. have all put out great albums in recent years.  That being said, Neil's recent albums are right up there with those albums.  I think the issue with some fans is that they prefer the performance/arrangement style of those early Crowded House albums (jangly upbeat pop) over the more somber, piano-based arrangements on the recent albums.  Neil's songwriting hasn't changed much over the years (great melodies, great classic song structures, etc.) but his arrangements and production have changed. 

I have to say I disagree with your last sentence . I think Neil’s writing has changed a lot . 

Steve Shealy posted:

Sugar Mouse posted:

IainK posted:

I think this is probably the album where I stop caring about Finn releases. Neil (and co) are of course free to persue which ever direction they which to take, but equally it's time to accept that, after what, 4 albums under various guises (solo/PJC & L+N) that I've at best tolerated and at worst think are just diabolical, it is time to check out and stop throwing money after albums I just get no enjoyment out of whatsoever.

Wow.  So sorry to hear that you find no enjoyment from Neil's recent work. I'm a huge fan of the Split Enz/Crowded House stuff and I also really enjoy Out of Silence and Lightsleeper. Dizzy Heights and Intriguer were solid to me but not great. I'm just happy that Neil continues to create.

It is sad that you feel that way. While I do long for the hey-day of Crowded House (I do feel like the "leftover" tracks from the bonus discs of Woodface, Together Alone, etc. are so much better than recent releases), Lightsleeper and Out of Silence are STILL so far above most of what is put out by other artists today. Can't remember the last new cd I bought by another artist, other than the new Beck one (Colors, excellent btw).  I will continue to buy anything any Finn puts out. I just do miss the pop hooks of, for instance, "Whispers and Moans". 

Honestly, I don't think Lightsleeper and Out of Silence are far above what else there is. Oos is a pleasant, one note album that is nice enough for a bit of background music but Lightsleeper, like PJC, is just plain unlistenable. There are just far more bands who I find far more interesting, exciting and, well, just less twee than Neil and his family these days. Together Alone will probably always remain my favourite album and Neil will always be a bit of a hero to me but eventually it's time to give up on a bad job.

I think the telling thing is that once upon a time I would have moved heaven and earth to see Neil play, but now I really don't care that the tour is hitting my city, particularly given that it's his family he is playing with. It's just not interesting to see Liam arsing about with his Dad and his mum whose voice I cannot stand and who, let's face it, can barely play bass. Compared to people like the Crowdies, or the likes of Michael Barker, Sebastian Steinberg or Lisa Germano? No, sorry, not for me.

And yes, I'm aware this all sounds a bit bitter, but as someone who grew up with Split Enz and the Crowdies music being a massive part of my life, letting it go is a difficult decision to come to.

IainK posted:

I think this is probably the album where I stop caring about Finn releases. Neil (and co) are of course free to persue which ever direction they which to take, but equally it's time to accept that, after what, 4 albums under various guises (solo/PJC & L+N) that I've at best tolerated and at worst think are just diabolical, it is time to check out and stop throwing money after albums I just get no enjoyment out of whatsoever.

This echoes my sentiments. It's not even a bother to me either, because what an extensive incredible output there already is for me to enjoy and love and get lost in. I'm glad Neil is happy, I'm glad people are still loving his creations. I'm incredibly grateful for all the songs he's produced that I do love, that were and continue to be a vital part of my life. I travelled to Sydney in 2016 to see the Sydney Opera House gig and it was seriously a spiritual event. I haven't engaged in Neil's new stuff since probably Time On Earth or Intriguer. I tried, heaven knows I tried! But I have accepted he's not gonna write (or can't write anymore) perfect pop/rock songs - possibly ever again.

Agree with the below as well ...

IainK posted:

I think this is probably the album where I stop caring about Finn releases. Neil (and co) are of course free to persue which ever direction they which to take, but equally it's time to accept that, after what, 4 albums under various guises (solo/PJC & L+N) that I've at best tolerated and at worst think are just diabolical, it is time to check out and stop throwing money after albums I just get no enjoyment out of whatsoever.

I know what it’s like to have to give up on a favorite artist and it is always a melancholy thing.  

To be honest, I feared Lightsleeper would be that album for me too, and I had very low expectations.

But for whatever reason, I adore Lightsleeper and am so very happy about that.   Neil and Liam seem to have brought out the best in each other in ways that Painaporo has so very eloquently stated.

Keep an ear out in the future, even if just on Spotify, because you never know if the next project will be the one to reel you back in.  

brownie posted:

IainK posted:

I think this is probably the album where I stop caring about Finn releases. Neil (and co) are of course free to persue which ever direction they which to take, but equally it's time to accept that, after what, 4 albums under various guises (solo/PJC & L+N) that I've at best tolerated and at worst think are just diabolical, it is time to check out and stop throwing money after albums I just get no enjoyment out of whatsoever.

I know what it’s like to have to give up on a favorite artist and it is always a melancholy thing.  

To be honest, I feared Lightsleeper would be that album for me too, and I had very low expectations.

But for whatever reason, I adore Lightsleeper and am so very happy about that.   Neil and Liam seem to have brought out the best in each other in ways that Painaporo has so very eloquently stated.

Keep an ear out in the future, even if just on Spotify, because you never know if the next project will be the one to reel you back in.  

I also can relate. My favorite band from college was Marillion and it completely broke my heart when Fish left the band and their sound dramatically changed overnight from the Clutching At Straws album to the Seasons End album.  I completely gave up on them and stopped following them only to rediscover them many years later with the Marbles album. It was like returning home ...

I'm glad others are liking "Lightsleeper".  Personally, I was looking for an album with a lot more energy -- energy that I thought would be sparked by Liam -- and was rather surprised to get a(nother) slow- to mid-tempo album that is heavy on piano and atmosphere.

But unlike "Out Of Silence", which has several songs I liked from the get-go, and melodies that I could recall after just a couple of listens, I find that the chorus of 'Back To Life' and snatches of 'Where's My Room' are the only things that stay with me after several (rather forced, at this point) listens to "Lightsleeper".

So ... not much energy, and not much in the way of memorable melodies, but a very ample helping of headphone-friendly noises and sonic texturing.  Alas, for me, Neil and Liam did NOT bring out the best in each other.

I'm with the other reviewers who are, in general, not loving Neil's post-Intriguer projects.  (Okay, I give "Out Of Silence" a pass for being something really different and really good, but I don't need more of it any time soon.)

Don't get me wrong, I'm not "done" with Neil --  HE is the reason I'm shelling out $125 for when Fleetwood Mac comes to town.

But I'm hoping that his playing a lot of guitar and singing a lot of pop-rock masterpieces (FM's, not his) will finally inspire Neil to revisit a guitar-based, up-tempo, pop-rock combo sound, with some seriously melodic hooks thrown in for good measure.

And if Mitchell Froom is available ...

JagDad posted:

 

So ... not much energy, and not much in the way of memorable melodies, but a very ample helping of headphone-friendly noises and sonic texturing.  Alas, for me, Neil and Liam did NOT bring out the best in each other.

This definitely!

Mariola posted:

JagDad posted:

 

So ... not much energy, and not much in the way of memorable melodies, but a very ample helping of headphone-friendly noises and sonic texturing.  Alas, for me, Neil and Liam did NOT bring out the best in each other.

This definitely!

JagDad posted:

 

But I'm hoping that his playing a lot of guitar and singing a lot of pop-rock masterpieces (FM's, not his) will finally inspire Neil to revisit a guitar-based, up-tempo, pop-rock combo sound, with some seriously melodic hooks thrown in for good measure.

And if Mitchell Froom is available ...

And, my hopes excatly!

Serious analitic review is baking wright now, after one more (fifth) listen, itl be ready!

Mariola posted:

JagDad posted:

 

So ... not much energy, and not much in the way of memorable melodies, but a very ample helping of headphone-friendly noises and sonic texturing.  Alas, for me, Neil and Liam did NOT bring out the best in each other.

This definitely!

To correct my own words - that goes only for Neil, not Liam - he gave more than 100 % of his capability, in my opinion.

Mariola posted:

Mariola posted:

JagDad posted:

 

So ... not much energy, and not much in the way of memorable melodies, but a very ample helping of headphone-friendly noises and sonic texturing.  Alas, for me, Neil and Liam did NOT bring out the best in each other.

This definitely!

To correct my own words - that goes only for Neil, not Liam - he gave more than 100 % of his capability, in my opinion.

Liam is definitely capable of writing his own good melodies and hooks, and although his albums have their fair share of slower songs, it's always the up-tempo (sometimes quite furiously up-tempo!) energy that I mostly associate with him.

So, my expectations about what he would bring to "Lightsleeper" were 1) a doubling of the likelihood for songs with memorable melodies, and 2) several songs with a bit of "punch" to them.

And since neither of those things happened ... hence my personal feeling that working with Dad didn't bring out the best in Liam either.   😐  

Maybe the problem is having such expectations in the first place?  I'll take a friend's advice and revisit this album in 5 years, when I can come at it from a more neutral mindset.

I understand that Tim's "The Conversation" was far from universally loved by fans upon its release -- perhaps, like me with "Lightsleeper", it just wasn't the album they were looking for at the time?  But I was expectation-free when I discovered "The Conversation" recently, and I can't imagine anyone NOT loving it!  Maybe I'll feel similarly about "Lightsleeper" in time.

Five times listen, I think its enough for serious review.

So, what we have here? Neil and Liam always knew that they gonna bring at least one album together. So, we can talk about spontaneous in unspontanousity. And, recording music album spontaneously is definitely not always a good thing...

Prelude/Island of Peace - I am not sure should I call this a serious "song"... if it is I should review it as one - as gift for somebodies/sons wedding ideal thing, beautifull, wonderfull. For song on album and published? Hm, I could be harsh and say that for song full of "cliches" like - safe harbor, welcome, together, together, together is no place on music album...

Meet Me in the Air - here we come on solid ground, nice and calming peace of music work, lovely, but not too memorable..not sure if second place on album suits best...and together with Where is my Room and Back to life only three songs in which I have feeling of together Neil and Liam work, rest of album are Neils songs and Liams songs in my ears...

Wheres my Room - this is a typical showcase of song in which performers have much more fun than listeners. Unneceseraly more than 7 minutes long song, which I skip each and every time after Neils line "show is over..." And here starts my problems with Neils singing on this album which is far under his level, the way he sings is just...not good...

Anger plays a part - Lovely Liams singing, full of emotions, easy gets to listener...But, without stronger rafrain than "I know that anger plays a part...".its just a good song, nothing special. And, next problem is - when you have interesting song like TNT for Two in which singing takes almost 4 minutes and than you have chanting in the end more than one minute, its a wonderfull thing. When you have singing about 90 seconds and than 90 seconds of TU-DU-DU-DU-DU, its just lack of idea and inspiration, which ends in my case 30 seconds after. For this again I dont blame Liam, he probably gave his best, but Neil was the one who should come with some strong refrain, put some salt in this song...

Listen - unfortunately I didnt hear this song in earlier version, but this Neils talking/singing is just iritating and doesnt serve a purpose. Song which otherwise could have been Pour Le Monde vol.2, turns out as avarage good song which (will) never get its potential.

Any other Way - Again beautifull and charming Liams singing, with perfect production and arrangments gave one of the best songs on this not too rich album... It has some beautifull old vibe, but in modern new way...beautiful song..

Back to life - was on the first and is one of the best songs in this son/father era. Neil at his best (perfect singing), Liam in backup, interesting arangments, all in all very good song.

Hiding place - weakest spot on album, again in Neils directing - boring, self important song, not going anywhere., lack of focus. In time of M. Froom it would probably be teared a part...shouldnt be in anyones album...

Ghosts - again fantastic Liams singing (I dont know how he manage that) on one of the most interesting songs on album. Refrain is fantastic and its really shame that this song wont grab any glory wider than between us few fans-

We know what it means - far better than Hiding place, but again little boringness in Neils directing... and way too long, last two minutes are totaly unnesecary, always skip after 4 minutes of it.. in time of CH it wont be on A side definitely...

Hold her Close - cream comes in the end, so Liam gave us special plesaure in the end of this album. Beautifull song, perfect Liams singing, only one from this album I could put on some wide best of Neils work ever. Altough I have a feeling its only Liam song, but ok...

All in all, what we have here is - extremely fit Liam and extremely unfit Neil. So, results are also mixed - songs in which Liam had stronger role are better, and opposite. Next problem I have with this album is that I dont have a "Finn Brothers" feeling - two men together have one song/album. In only three songs I have that feeling here, in 8 I have feeling that Liam has his songs and Neil has his (more or less but weak) songs. If you admit a fact that Neil is more talented musician with higher potential, and he is the one who is extremely unfit in this record, I honestly doubt one can be too much satysfied with this record in whole. 

Mariola posted:

Five times listen, I think its enough for serious review.

So, what we have here? Neil and Liam always knew that they gonna bring at least one album together. So, we can talk about spontaneous in unspontanousity. And, recording music album spontaneously is definitely not always a good thing...

Prelude/Island of Peace - I am not sure should I call this a serious "song"... if it is I should review it as one - as gift for somebodies/sons wedding ideal thing, beautifull, wonderfull. For song on album and published? Hm, I could be harsh and say that for song full of "cliches" like - safe harbor, welcome, together, together, together is no place on music album...

Meet Me in the Air - here we come on solid ground, nice and calming peace of music work, lovely, but not too memorable..not sure if second place on album suits best...and together with Where is my Room and Back to life only three songs in which I have feeling of together Neil and Liam work, rest of album are Neils songs and Liams songs in my ears...

Wheres my Room - this is a typical showcase of song in which performers have much more fun than listeners. Unneceseraly more than 7 minutes long song, which I skip each and every time after Neils line "show is over..." And here starts my problems with Neils singing on this album which is far under his level, the way he sings is just...not good...

Anger plays a part - Lovely Liams singing, full of emotions, easy gets to listener...But, without stronger rafrain than "I know that anger plays a part...".its just a good song, nothing special. And, next problem is - when you have interesting song like TNT for Two in which singing takes almost 4 minutes and than you have chanting in the end more than one minute, its a wonderfull thing. When you have singing about 90 seconds and than 90 seconds of TU-DU-DU-DU-DU, its just lack of idea and inspiration, which ends in my case 30 seconds after. For this again I dont blame Liam, he probably gave his best, but Neil was the one who should come with some strong refrain, put some salt in this song...

Any other Way - Again beautifull and charming Liams singing, with perfect production and arrangments gave one of the best songs on this not too rich album... It has some beautifull old vibe, but in modern new way...beautiful song..

Listen - unfortunately I didnt hear this song in earlier version, but this Neils talking/singing is just iritating and doesnt serve a purpose. Song which otherwise could have been Pour Le Monde vol.2, turns out as avarage good song which (will) never get its potential.

Any other Way - Again beautifull and charming Liams singing, with perfect production and arrangments gave one of the best songs on this not too rich album... It has some beautifull old vibe, but in modern new way...beautiful song..

Back to life - was on the first and is one of the best songs in this son/father era. Neil at his best (perfect singing), Liam in backup, interesting arangments, all in all very good song.

Hiding place - weakest spot on album, again in Neils directing - boring, self important song, not going anywhere., lack of focus. In time of M. Froom it would probably be teared a part...shouldnt be in anyones album...

Ghosts - again fantastic Liams singing (I dont know how he manage that) on one of the most interesting songs on album. Refrain is fantastic and its really shame that this song wont grab any glory wider than between us few fans-

We know what it means - far better than Hiding place, but again little boringness in Neils directing... and way too long, last two minutes are totaly unnesecary, always skip after 4 minutes of it.. in time of CH it wont be on A side definitely...

Hold her Close - cream comes in the end, so Liam gave us special plesaure in the end of this album. Beautifull song, perfect Liams singing, only one from this album I could put on some wide best of Neils work ever. Altough I have a feeling its only Liam song, but ok...

All in all, what we have here is - extremely fit Liam and extremely unfit Neil. So, results are also mixed - songs in which Liam had stronger role are better, and opposite. Next problem I have with this album is that I dont have a "Finn Brothers" feeling - two men together have one song/album. In only three songs I have that feeling here, in 8 I have feeling that Liam has his songs and Neil has his (more or less but weak) songs. If you admit a fact that Neil is more talented musician with higher potential, and he is the one who is extremely unfit in this record, I honestly doubt one can be too much satysfied with this record in whole.

My comments - I also adore this "Anger".  Liam wrote it but I heard Neil talk about it and how they decided to have a long coda for the song to symbolize a sort of mindfulness as one embraces anger and moves through it.  Neil said that the song is about how anger is a part of life and how it can have a vital part in healing and recovery.

Troubles

My comments - really catchy song. I can see why it was the bonus track, but I also think it should have been included on the main album as it provides some energy.

My comments - "Listen" is one of my favorite Neil songs of all-time and that's saying a lot.  First, it's a spectacular lyric. How brilliant is that first line ... and how brilliant is the line "silence has a purpose, I don't fear it anymore" ... such a great lyric.  I had the good fortune to hear Neil play this song on solo piano and it's something that will stay with me forever. Such a powerful song. The vocal here on the studio version is plaintive and a bit sorrowful which adds to the power for me. Love, love, love this song.

My comments: I also love this song ... it flows beautifully. Doesn't necessary "go" anywhere but there's a power to this song.  A magical quality that draws me in every time I hear it.  Love Liam's vocal on this one.

My comments - "Back To Life" is the most classic Neil song on the record. I would call it a perfect song. Perfect verses, perfect chorus, perfect bridge, and perfect coda. Love it.

My comments - "Ghosts" is growing on me.  Felt a bit weird to me at first but it's definitely catchy and would be the single if the album were released in the 80's.

Sugar Mouse posted:

Wow ... I appreciate your comments. Very well thought out and it sounds like you've given the record a lot of listens.  I see/hear the album so differently ... I adore the album which is vastly different that anything Neil has been associated with before.  It's a world away from Out of Silence (which I consider to be a masterpiece and one of my favorite Neil albums ever), but Lightsleeper is such a beautiful musical world and one that takes time to savor.  I'm enjoying it more and more with each listen.

Island of Peace

My comment - I adore Island of Peace as an entry point into the album. I agree with you that it isn't a "song" as such.  It's more of a prelude to a musical piece. It's our entry point into the world that is Lightsleeper.

Meet Me in the Air

My comment - I really like this song but I don't like it early in the album. It's simply too slow and meandering.  In my playlist, I have in the middle of the album. At that point, it fits perfectly for me.  I also think the first "verse" should have been edited ... goes on too long for my taste.  That all being said, it's a beautiful Liam song.

Where's My Room

My comment - I have a completely different take on "Where's My Room".  I think it is a brilliant, brilliant song.  I heard Neil talk about it and how it's a musical and lyrical portrait of what it's like to walk through a hotel or through life knocking on doors, entering some and exiting, all the while looking for home. It's such a magnificent song. I get chills just thinking about the song. And the last two minutes (beautifully arranged by Victoria Kelly) is off the chart amazing.  To me, this song is a career achievement. On my playlist, I've moved this song to #2 after Island of Peace and I love it there.

Anger Plays a Part

My comments - I also adore this "Anger".  Liam wrote it but I heard Neil talk about it and how they decided to have a long coda for the song to symbolize a sort of mindfulness as one embraces anger and moves through it.  Neil said that the song is about how anger is a part of life and how it can have a vital part in healing and recovery.

Troubles

My comments - really catchy song. I can see why it was the bonus track, but I also think it should have been included on the main album as it provides some energy.

Listen

My comments - "Listen" is one of my favorite Neil songs of all-time and that's saying a lot.  First, it's a spectacular lyric. How brilliant is that first line ... and how brilliant is the line "silence has a purpose, I don't fear it anymore" ... such a great lyric.  I had the good fortune to hear Neil play this song on solo piano and it's something that will stay with me forever. Such a powerful song. The vocal here on the studio version is plaintive and a bit sorrowful which adds to the power for me. Love, love, love this song.

Any Other Way

My comments: I also love this song ... it flows beautifully. Doesn't necessary "go" anywhere but there's a power to this song.  A magical quality that draws me in every time I hear it.  Love Liam's vocal on this one.

Back To Life

My comments - "Back To Life" is the most classic Neil song on the record. I would call it a perfect song. Perfect verses, perfect chorus, perfect bridge, and perfect coda. Love it.

Hiding Place

My comments - I also love "Hiding Place". Again, it's one of those wandering songs. Takes the listener on a musical journey to undercover what lies beneath the surface in our hiding places where there is no shadow.  The song gives me major chills.

Ghosts

My comments - "Ghosts" is growing on me.  Felt a bit weird to me at first but it's definitely catchy and would be the single if the album were released in the 80's.

We Know What It Means

My comments - this is a real sentimental song and the lyric is a little clumsy but I love the sentiment and I love the music.  Gives me a lump in the throat.

Hold Her Close

My comments - "Hold Her Close" may be the best song Liam has ever written. An instant classic.  Perfect song.

Tnx, Sugar Mouse, you are very kind

I am glad for you to enjoy this album in a way I cannot, and to see most of the songs in different angle than I am. I remember my feelings when I listened Out of Silence for first few times, that wonderfull emotions, probably you feel it again with this album Unfortunately, this new album is far from that to me. I listened Out of Silence last night after more than a month, and realised once more that nothing on Lightsleeper is on same level with Love is Emotional, Chameleon Days, Widows Peak, Terorrise Me, I know different. Only Hold her Close comes near to that, but to be honest, Liams songwriting isnt on same level as Neils, so something missing, hard to put finger what. And, add to that I think that songs with more Liams influence turned out just fine, but Neils songwriting and singing here is main problem, he is the one who was complitety unfit, in my opinon ofcourse.

I think Lightsleeper is a fabulous record.

Whilst I have liked the previous records from Pajama Club, Dizzy Heights and Out of Silence, I think Lightsleeper is superb and possibly draws from all of the best bits of these but for me it also stands closely with both Finn and Try Whistling This (2 records that I really love) and these records also involved Tchad Blake who I think has been involved here too. 

Wrapped up in the all the social media and promotion was a comment from either Neil or Liam that called the record "a warm bath for the ears" - I think this is how I feel about lightsleeper already. There is a really warm, intimate and calm atmosphere within these songs. I think I'm already lining it alongside Finn which I think is different record but has a similar atmosphere. 

Also - can anyone PM if they have an MP3 of Trouble that they would share? Not sure why it couldn't have been hidden on the CD or an un marked MP3 and why it had to be only on the Vinyl :-(

Can someone who has liner notes please tell me who plays drums on Where’s My Room?  Is it Elroy, Mick Fleetwood, or someone else?

I have grown to really love the combination of strings and “I Am the Walrus” Beatley drums towards the end of the track.  

I agree with a lot of the comments here that have been better thought out than my own. 

I feared a Neil/Liam collaboration as I thought it would be a bit too experimental and pointless. If I'm honest, I probably feared another Pajama Club, which is by some margin my last favourite album that Neil has been a key contributor too. Strangely I think this does have a PC vibe on places (and also Sun Came Out), but in the main, I'm really enjoying it. What surprised me is that most of my favourite tracks are 'Liam' tracks. 

I think my only real low point is the first half of 'Where's My Room?'  which does nothing for me, and it's a personal shame that it's so early on the album as it kills the start a bit. Ghosts isn't great either. 

I think Anger, Any Other Way and Hold Her Close are all very good songs.

It's seems clear to me that everything after Time On Earth has been divisive. In my view, Dizzy Heights is probably the best thing since then, followed by Out of Silence. Others on here - bigger fans than me - have totally different opinions on those albums, and the ones I'm less keen on. I think Neil's songwriting has changed significantly, and it would seem what interests him too (and the world of music). I can see why others are turned off by Dizzy Heights or Lightsleeper, though when looking at a move from the pop of Crowded House to more experimental stuff, you could argue the jump to Try Whistling This was bigger than anything since. I think only Intriguer was an attempt to record a 'Crowded House' album, and everything else has been moving in different directions. 

Wheres my room isn't my favourite track on the record but that and Ghosts are what bring the record to life - they are so different to the quietness that is there and I think give it the depth. I did think 'you what!!' when I heard Ghosts for the first time but I love it now!

What I like is the 'freak out' they are compared to say Listen or Hold Her Close. The diversity of the tracks is what makes it. They are the bullets in my hairdo contrasting to Wheres my soul or paradise on Finn. 

brownie posted:

Can someone who has liner notes please tell me who plays drums on Where’s My Room?  Is it Elroy, Mick Fleetwood, or someone else?

I have grown to really love the combination of strings and “I Am the Walrus” Beatley drums towards the end of the track.  

Check this out! "Where Is My Room" begins with beats programmed by Liam. Then Kody Nielson (The Mint Chicks) comes in drumming for the 2nd movement. Then Neil plays drums for the 3rd movement followed by Liam on drums for the 4th and final movement of the song. So many drummers!

Paināporo posted:

brownie posted:

Can someone who has liner notes please tell me who plays drums on Where’s My Room?  Is it Elroy, Mick Fleetwood, or someone else?

I have grown to really love the combination of strings and “I Am the Walrus” Beatley drums towards the end of the track.  

Check this out! "Where Is My Room" begins with beats programmed by Liam. Then Kody Nielson (The Mint Chicks) comes in drumming for the 2nd movement. Then Neil plays drums for the 3rd movement followed by Liam on drums for the 4th and final movement of the song. So many drummers!

Wow, so I guess Liam on drums is the part I’m talking about.  Thanks!

koabac posted:

I've just noticed that, not only does the vinyl have the "Trouble" bonus track, but the entire tracklisting is reordered from the digital download (which, I assume is the same as the CD?). There is SOME sense of connectivity between the songs, at least, in terms of atmospherics and moods and I wonder if the rearrangement makes a large difference and which is better? The whole album is a dreamy journey and moving the songs around could make a huge difference in terms of overall impact. 

Has anyone listened to both versions of the two different running orders and have preference? My sense is that the digital download and CD would be ordered with an ear for hearing it all straight through without a break, turning over discs and stuff, but flow is flow and I'm surprised they changed the order THAT much in the two versions. 

Thoughts? Preferences? Is there an even better ideal running order? Maybe the digital/CD tracklist with "Troubles" just added at the end? Curious...

My vinyl doesn’t have trouble ?! ...

2nd listen . Late last night . Atmospheric and lovely to chill out to , but no real songs of distinction that hit me . Just some nice moments ...

stuartjb posted:

My vinyl doesn’t have trouble ?! ...

 

2nd listen . Late last night . Atmospheric and lovely to chill out to , but no real songs of distinction that hit me . Just some nice moments ...

Pretty sure all vinyl versions have Troubles. It is atmospheric and great for a chill out. A couple pop gems hidden in there, though. Strongly recommend Neil's "We Know What It Means".

Paināporo posted:

stuartjb posted:

2nd listen . Late last night . Atmospheric and lovely to chill out to , but no real songs of distinction that hit me . Just some nice moments ...

Pretty sure all vinyl versions have Troubles. It is atmospheric and great for a chill out. A couple pop gems hidden in there, though. Strongly recommend Neil's "We Know What It Means".

Agree completely there. Listened to the album for the first time in a few days today, and was struck by this one. Would be a great end to a gig someday. 

So far I'm really loving Lightsleeper! It's particularly nice because there are certain moments where you can really hear Liam's influence on the writing and production. I've seen some people comment on the sonics of the record, and I really couldn't agree more on that. I think it's one of the best Finn releases, sonically speaking, in a long time. Everyone Is Here is kind of a sonic triumph in my mind, and this honestly isn't far off from that. Obviously not at all the same kind of record, but in terms of the mixes and production choices it's up there for me.

"Listen" is really so beautiful. I think the shift towards piano-centric stuff for Neil has obviously been slowly happening really since Time On Earth ("Heaven," "Pour Le Monde," etc) and I welcome that, honestly. I think there's been pretty consistently great stuff in that realm. That's not to say I don't miss the more guitar-driven stuff, but I can understand needing to step away from that instrument and even just gravitating to another instrument from a compositional standpoint. I'd love to see him return to guitar more prominently (FM, perhaps?) but, like a lot of y'all, I'm just glad he still has quality output on a consistent basis. 

Tchad Blake is such a brilliant guy that I had high hopes for this project on that level, and I'm really satisfied. Liam as a singer is just so great, too, and I think they've done some really wonderful work together so far. The best thing about it is that Liam really is such a different guy musically speaking, so it is kind of worlds colliding despite them being father and son. There are threads between them of course, but they certainly have different musical identities and the combo really landed, for my ears anyway. There's some stuff on the last couple of records, and Lightsleeper, that I don't necessarily find myself going back to a lot, but I think that could be said about a lot of artists and a lot of albums. I appreciated Dizzy Heights from the perspective of wanting to branch out (Dave Fridmann, etc), but it's not one I honestly go back to as much overall (aside from "Pony Ride," which is a gem, and a couple others). Out Of Silence I loved a lot (the whole experience of that just felt like a great gift to the fans to a large degree), but I think the new record is just very special. 

I am more and more impressed with Liam as I continue to listen to Lightsleeper, which has been a stupid amount of times now.

My initial impression was that Neil and Liam brought out the best in each other.  I still think that.  But now I’m starting to think beyond that.  I think this album is Liam’s best work.  After Painaporo posted the drumming credits for Where’s My Room, now I know that Liam is responsible for my single most favorite thing on this album:  the drums at the end of that track, played along with the strings.

I don’t have access to all the details about who played what on this album since I only bought the digital files, but I feel like Liam has really come into his own on this album.  I wish liner notes would come with digital files!

My teenage daughter’s heard a lot of Finn related music in the house over her lifetime. Thought she’d be sick of it all, but she adores this album, and is gifting CDs to friends on their birthdays. 

I think Monsieur Nicks thoughts on the album musically pretty much are the same as mine (right down to feelings about certain songs) so I don’t need to repeat that.

After hearing most of the songs on the tour, I did have some concerns. Like many I was hoping for an upbeat guitar album , and after hearing the songs on tour, I knew it wouldn’t be that! I much prefer Neil with a guitar strapped to him rocking out than behind a keyboard.

So while this isn’t the album I originally was hoping for, it is a work of art that I can appreciate on a number of levels.

I find it interesting to compare with Out of Silence. My favorite part of the OoS sessions was the gig where Neil did What’s The Matter With You, Mind Over Matter and Hole In The Ice. That rocked and was almost the opposite of the other sessions.

I really appreciate Out of Silence for the recording live concept, and think the songs are strong but struggle with it as an album. As a packaged album, it has a pretty awful cover and the album just feels to “samey” to me. I enjoy hearing most songs when they appear on a random playlist but it’s not an album I would play from beginning to end. It not a vinyl album I would take off my shelf, appreciate the artwork as I take out the vinyl then savor putting it on and listening to the album through.

Light Sleeper is different - I do savor taking out the vinyl and listening to all four sides from beginning to end. I find it extraordinarily well crafted. It sounds great sonically (as many have commented on) and flows really well as an album. 

It was also great to receive the vinyl in the mail the day it was released. It was a joy to open. I purchased the tea towel package and loved the way the vinyl was wrapped in the tea towel with the signed picture and badges with the closed eye. It is a beautifully put together double album with the lyrics and credits on the sleeves. 

My only gripe is that Troubles isn’t on the vinyl download code. I would like to be able to have a full digital copy of the album I bought rather than being a song short.

Whysus posted:

I think Monsieur Nicks thoughts on the album musically pretty much are the same as mine (right down to feelings about certain songs) so I don’t need to repeat that.

After hearing most of the songs on the tour, I did have some concerns. Like many I was hoping for an upbeat guitar album , and after hearing the songs on tour, I knew it wouldn’t be that! I much prefer Neil with a guitar strapped to him rocking out than behind a keyboard.

So while this isn’t the album I originally was hoping for, it is a work of art that I can appreciate on a number of levels.

I find it interesting to compare with Out of Silence. My favorite part of the OoS sessions was the gig where Neil did What’s The Matter With You, Mind Over Matter and Hole In The Ice. That rocked and was almost the opposite of the other sessions.

I really appreciate Out of Silence for the recording live concept, and think the songs are strong but struggle with it as an album. As a packaged album, it has a pretty awful cover and the album just feels to “samey” to me. I enjoy hearing most songs when they appear on a random playlist but it’s not an album I would play from beginning to end. It not a vinyl album I would take off my shelf, appreciate the artwork as I take out the vinyl then savor putting it on and listening to the album through.

Light Sleeper is different - I do savor taking out the vinyl and listening to all four sides from beginning to end. I find it extraordinarily well crafted. It sounds great sonically (as many have commented on) and flows really well as an album. 

It was also great to receive the vinyl in the mail the day it was released. It was a joy to open. I purchased the tea towel package and loved the way the vinyl was wrapped in the tea towel with the signed picture and badges with the closed eye. It is a beautifully put together double album with the lyrics and credits on the sleeves. 

My only gripe is that Troubles isn’t on the vinyl download code. I would like to be able to have a full digital copy of the album I bought rather than being a song short.

This post is so in tune with my thoughts on both albums ( word for word actually ) I could have written this myself ! 

I knew troubles wasn’t on my download !!

I've managed to listen to Troubles now and having become used to the running order of the CD / MP3 version, it doesn't fit that easily to me. The mood seems different to the other 11 songs - feels a little bit of a B side to me. 

Personally, I think the 11 as they are presented are best, perhaps some of this is due to increasing familiarity with the songs and the order - I suppose those who have been listening to the Vinyl may prefer the record including troubles and sequenced in that order? 

That all said - 1 month on, I think Lightsleeper is brilliant and up there with the best records either Neil or Liam have released. I was really looking forward to this once I read it was coming back at the end of last year and it has not disappointed. 

Enjoying some songs much more than others.

The first 3 tracks (IMO) are the weakest and I normally start the Album from track 4.

The rest of the album is pretty good. 

Hiding Place drags a little but the other songs (tracks 4-11) are very enjoyable.

Kiwi posted:

Enjoying some songs much more than others.

The first 3 tracks (IMO) are the weakest and I normally start the Album from track 4.

The rest of the album is pretty good. 

Hiding Place drags a little but the other songs (tracks 4-11) are very enjoyable.

It's funny isn't it, how people have completely different tastes? The first three tracks are by far my favourite on the album (I also really like Ghosts). It's the ballad type ones that really don't do it for me. I wish they'd kept the whole album in the same vein as the first 3 tracks or so. And I wish there'd been more Connan Mockasin in the mix. Some good tracks on here though and I've returned to the album several times. I've got tickets to see them in January. Am more interested in this type of music live than CH.

Easy forgetable album, already forgotten by the world and most of the fans (in too short time period)...sory folks (specialy Neil and Liam), but thats how it is...

Mariola posted:

Easy forgetable album, already forgotten by the world and most of the fans (in too short time period)...sory folks (specialy Neil and Liam), but thats how it is...

Not forgotten by me.  Not by a long shot.  I would go to a show supporting this album in a heartbeat if it comes to the NYC area.  This album got lost in Neil’s Fleetwood Mac fling.

Mariola posted:

Easy forgetable album, already forgotten by the world and most of the fans (in too short time period)...sory folks (specialy Neil and Liam), but thats how it is...

I don’t agree with this. It is a unique album that has been released with virtually no promotion or tour, just as all focus is turning to Neil in Fleetwood Mac. That doesn’t make it forgettable. The timing for it is just very unfortunate. 

I personally think it is one of Neil’s more memorable albums because it is different (like The Finn album was when that came out). But like a lot of Neil’s recent work, I completely get that it just won’t resonate with all fans and could even alienate some. I can respect that, but think it is a stretch to say it has been forgotten by most of the fans. 

Whysus posted:

Mariola posted:

Easy forgetable album, already forgotten by the world and most of the fans (in too short time period)...sory folks (specialy Neil and Liam), but thats how it is...

I don’t agree with this. It is a unique album that has been released with virtually no promotion or tour, just as all focus is turning to Neil in Fleetwood Mac. That doesn’t make it forgettable. The timing for it is just very unfortunate. 

I personally think it is one of Neil’s more memorable albums because it is different (like The Finn album was when that came out). But like a lot of Neil’s recent work, I completely get that it just won’t resonate with all fans and could even alienate some. I can respect that, but think it is a stretch to say it has been forgotten by most of the fans. 

Agreed. Lightsleeper is a very quality album. That being said, it won't appeal to fans of Split Enz or early Crowded House but it's a great album nonetheless.

Whysus posted:

Mariola posted:

Easy forgetable album, already forgotten by the world and most of the fans (in too short time period)...sory folks (specialy Neil and Liam), but thats how it is...

I don’t agree with this. It is a unique album that has been released with virtually no promotion or tour, just as all focus is turning to Neil in Fleetwood Mac. That doesn’t make it forgettable. The timing for it is just very unfortunate. 

I personally think it is one of Neil’s more memorable albums because it is different (like The Finn album was when that came out). But like a lot of Neil’s recent work, I completely get that it just won’t resonate with all fans and could even alienate some. I can respect that, but think it is a stretch to say it has been forgotten by most of the fans. 

Great to see that there are few fans who actualy like Lightsleeper, but it says nothing about its value... album didnt get almost any attention outside fan base, with this album wont be any new fans (not only for non promotion reasons), there are almost no critic praises above average, and finaly, there is no actual attention here...if you compare it to released CH discs few years ago, or Intriguer, it is just drop in water.., and last but not least, and most important to me, there is no single memorable melody on that album, no interesting twists, turns and hooks...boring Neil with songs which in time of CH would be on C side or teared apart by Mitchel Froom (even didnt remember their names so must look for  song titles): Hiding Places, We know what it means, than songs in which artists obviously enjoy much more than audience like Where s my room and Meet me in the air, songs which potential stucked in the lack of inspiration or lousy nailing like Listen and Anger plays a Part... what we have good here is Liam in pretty good shape, but honestly with much less music potential and talent than Neil or worlds A league...sory to them, sory to fans, but thats just how it is...