Crowded House

The first new studio album in 14 years from the reformed Crowded House (minus drummer Paul Hester, who committed suicide two years ago) doesn't live up to the band's pristine, melodic adult pop standards from the first go-around. The highlight is "She Called Up," a smart and classy song that should join the ranks of the Australian group's past hits. "Walked Her Way Down" is edgier than the rest of the disc, although it has a quiet piano bridge. The sprightly "Even A Child" was co-written by frontman Neil Finn and former Smiths (and current Modest Mouse) guitarist Johnny Marr, who plays on both that track and "Don't Stop Now." "Transit Lounge" has a light but solid groove, and "Nobody Wants To" and "Pour Le Monde" feature thought-provoking lyrics. But there are too many songs that just seem to blend in with the woodwork and lose the listener's attention.