Within artist circles, Finn and his brother Tim have been recognized as master pop craftsmen since emerging on the scene with the Split Enz hit 'I Got You' in 1980, so it is wonderful to see Neil get the kind of recognition he deserves standing onstage with an entire arena singing along to his music. And Finn, who was introduced by Fleetwood, singing the lead on the gorgeous Crowded House hit 'Don't Dream It's Over' was magnificent. Some of the changes were blatant, like Campbell taking the lead on the raucous, blues-flavored 'Oh Well,' a Mac song that predates the post-1975 Buckingham/Nicks era. That was undoubtedly the case Thursday night in the invigorating and superb performance. It's no knock on Buckingham, who is a musical auteur, but talk to any band, and I've been fortunate to talk to thousands, and they'll tell you whenever a member leaves or a new member comes in inevitably brings in a creative spark that results in a fresh vitality.
Watching the second of the three sold-out shows I realize, in hindsight, it should come as no surprise the tour finds the band resurgent and sounding great. this week for three sold-out nights at the Forum. Still, the tour has rolled on successfully, selling out across the U.S.
