Second Thoughts (1976)
Split Enz's second album, technically titled 'Second Thoughts,' was released with different packaging for the US and European markets as “Mental Notes” for whatever reason. The album bursts forth with an undeniable creative force, surpassing its predecessor and building upon the styles of their debut release.
Once again, Split Enz showcases a sonic palette unlike anything I have ever heard before, seamlessly blending masterful musicianship with quirky songwriting. ‘Second Thoughts’ takes listeners on a captivating musical journey from start to finish, much like their debut album, 'Mental Notes.' It even earns the group their second entry into the NSA list. Let's give it up for the Enz!
The album opens with the fantastic track “Late Last Night,” wasting no time in showcasing the band's growth and maturation. The song's energy is matched only by its intriguing lyrics, demonstrating Split Enz's ability to craft catchy melodies with story telling. Tim Finn's vocals shine through once again, albeit not as over the top as some of Phill Judd's on the previous record. With a more conventional song arrangement, this track stands out as one of the highlights of the album.
Continuing the sonic exploration, “Walking Down the Road” is one of several songs from their debut album that were re-recorded and added to this record. The band demonstrates their ability to tighten and enhance tracks from ‘Mental Notes’, turning them into even shinier gems thanks to access to better equipment. The song also features a piano display that would make even Elton John proud.
Throughout the album, Split Enz blends elements of progressive rock, new wave, art rock, and pop, creating a distinct sonic soundscape that is so difficult to categorize. Tracks like “Sweet Dreams” and “Matinee Idyll” exemplify the band's genre-bending approach, fusing catchy melodies with intricate instrumentation, resulting in a musical experience that is both familiar, due in part to their debut, and groundbreaking. What I particularly enjoyed on this album was the introduction of more saxophone, which is brilliantly incorporated into songs like “Late Last Night,” “Matinee Idyll,” and my personal favorite so far, “The Woman Who Loves Me.”
'Second Thoughts' is a testament to Split Enz's growth as a band and their unwavering commitment to pushing creative boundaries. By building upon the strengths of their debut record, they have crafted a sophomore release that stands on its own merits, if not surpassing them. The record is a triumph of artistic vision and musical innovation—a musical journey that should be experienced and cherished by fans both old and new.
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Highlight Songs:
The Woman Who Loves Me
Late Last Night
Matinee Idyll
Walking Down a Road
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Own it, Stream it, Forget about it?
Reference my answer to this question on the debut Mental Notes review I posted. The same thing goes for this record. It’s either for you specifically or it is not at all for you. If so, buy it and love it. If not, feel free to be boring …
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Overall Rating:
4.5 Stars
