Mental Notes (1975)
Mental Notes is undeniably one of the most interesting albums I've ever encountered. Having listened to countless albums, I can confidently say that New Zealand's own Split Enz delivered something truly distinctive with their debut release. Mental Notes presents a mesmerizing blend of art rock, progressive rock, and pop music, characterized by constantly shifting time signatures and the one of a kind vocal style of Tim Finn.
I must admit, I often enjoy teasing friends and family about artists and musicians with distinct and personally unappealing singing voices, such as Alanis Morissette, Morrissey, Billy Corgan, and Thom Yorke. Phil Judd, however, establishes himself as someone with one of the most eccentric vocal styles in music on this record. It took me a few listens to Mental Notes to fully appreciate it. While there are moments where Judd's artsy, madman-like vocals grow on me and become enjoyable, there are also instances when I wonder if the album would reach new heights with a more conventional singer. Could Mental Notes become an undeniable five-star masterpiece with a frontman like Peter Gabriel, Phil Collins, Greg Lake, Jon Anderson, or even a young David Gilmour? It's a thought that lingers.
Opening with the stunning "Walking Down a Road," soft piano melodies and ethereal vocals instantly captivate the listener. Split Enz's venture into progressive rock was unexpected, yet they prove to be exceptional musicians. The drumming is complex and unconventional, coupled with a whimsical touch that is something I have not yet found in the genre.
"Under The Wheel" follows as a progressive rock tour de force. Clocking in at over seven minutes, the song boasts intricate time signatures, elaborate guitar and keyboard passages, and a haunting vocal melody. The recurring line, "Get on back home to my mother," carries a disturbing and creepy charm, evoking imagery akin to Norman Bates. Its eerie vibes could find a place on any Halloween playlist. Despite requiring a few listens, this song grows on me, moving through various sections that build upon each other, intensifying the overall experience.
"Amy (Darling)" stands as one of the album's finest tracks. Its range spans from country twang to a Penny Lane-esque whimsy, yet with a more progressive and dramatic flair. "So Long For Now" boasts one of the funkiest bass lines I've ever heard. “Spellbound" showcases an impressive guitar solo by Phil Judd and off kilter drumming by Emlyn Crowther.
"Time for a Change" delivers exquisite piano and acoustic guitar segments, building up to a powerful crescendo. “Titus" unveils outstanding keyboard work by Eddie Rayner, perfectly displaying the band's musicianship.
Mental Notes is an incredibly eccentric debut album by Split Enz. It serves as a testament to the band's distinctive fusion of art rock, progressive rock, and pop music, while showcasing their impressive musicianship and theatricality. Each song is meticulously crafted with intricate arrangements and memorable melodies. Whether you're a fan of progressive rock, art rock, or simply appreciate great music, Mental Notes is an album that deserves a fair and open minded listen. It is a No Skip Album, earning Split Enz an entry to my prestigious NSA club.
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Highlight Songs
Walking Down the Road
Under The Wheel
Amy (Darling)
Time For a Change
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Own it, Stream it, Forget about it?
It realllyyyyyyy depends on your taste. If you’re into artsy, experimental, progressive-lite pop rock music then absolutely give this record a try. Don’t even think about passing it up. If you aren’t a poppy, prog-art-rock kind of person and you like your music more streamlined and formulaic, then maybe pass on this album as a whole. If you like it, then it’s worth owning.
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Overall Rating:
4.5 Stars
