ENZSO – Enszo (1996)

Some twenty years after the fabulous Split Enz broke up; Neil to create Crowsed House; brother Tim Finn already pursuing a solo career – and the rest of the group – well, they sort of retired – Eddie Rayner, founder member of the band decided to arrange some of Split Enz songs for Orchestra.  Calling on a few friends and a variety of singers including Neil and Tim, he released this album (Enz Symphony Orchestra – or ENZSO).   And how pleasant it is, like meeting old friends again after two decades or more – changed a bit, quieter, gentler – but still recognisable.  As a great fan of the original group and Neil and Tim. This was such a nice reprieve.  It just goes to show that great songs, which they were, sound great – whatever the interpretation.  Obviously this is really for the old fans, but it is surprisingly upbeat and the songs have aged really well.  Eddie repeated the exercise three years later with slightly less success – but good on him for trying something different.