Split Enz – True Colours (40th Anniversary – Orange Vinyl)

True Colours, released in 1980, is a landmark album by the New Zealand band Split Enz. This record stands as a pivotal moment in the band’s career, representing their successful foray into a more mainstream, pop-oriented sound, while still retaining the artistic quirks and inventiveness that initially set them apart.

Musically, “True Colours” weaves a tapestry of vivid, colorful melodies and catchy hooks, demonstrating a maturation in the band’s songwriting. The album opens with the bouncy “I Got You,” an infectious, guitar-driven track that became the band’s most recognizable hit, resonating with audiences worldwide. This song encapsulates the new direction of Split Enz, with its crisp production, memorable chorus, and the clever interplay of Neil Finn’s evocative vocals and Tim Finn’s keyboard work.

Throughout the album, the band balances pop sensibilities with their art-rock roots. Tracks like “Poor Boy” and “I Hope I Never” showcase their talent for crafting emotionally resonant ballads, featuring introspective lyrics and lush arrangements. The album’s eclecticism is further highlighted in songs like “Nobody Takes Me Seriously” and “What’s the Matter With You,” where quirky rhythms and witty lyrics hark back to the band’s earlier, more avant-garde style.

“True Colours” also marks a significant moment in the evolution of Split Enz from their earlier, more experimental phase into a band capable of producing globally appealing pop hits. The production, handled deftly by David Tickle, plays a crucial role in presenting a cleaner, more polished sound, without losing the essence of what makes Split Enz unique.