One of the most distinctive and beloved bands of the past quarter-century is returning to the front line of popular music: Crowded House has a new album and a new deal with the world’s leading music company, Universal Music.

Crowded House - Neil Finn, Mark Hart, Nick Seymour and Matt Sherrod - have completed Intriguer for release in June through Universal Music worldwide. The 10-song album was produced by Jim Scott and Neil Finn, and recorded in Roundhead studios in Auckland, New Zealand

Intriguer follows 2007’s Time On Earth, which hit No. 1 in Australia and New Zealand, and No. 3 in the UK. It was a continuation of the legacy created by such music milestones as Crowded House, Woodface, Together Alone and Recurring Dream. These albums have together accounted for career sales of more than 10 million, produced such global hits as ‘Don’t Dream It’s Over’, ‘Something So Strong’ and ‘Weather With You’, and created Crowded House’s reputation as one of the most compelling bands in the world.

Neil Finn said: “I look forward to a long and productive relationship with Universal Music, who are obviously the music company setting the benchmark now. We're delighted to be in the company of music-loving people who believe in us and are eager to spread the word.”

Max Hole, Executive VP Universal Music Group International, commented: “Neil Finn has one of those instantly recognisable voices, and is one of the world’s most accomplished songwriters. We are thrilled to be working with Crowded House on ‘Intriguer’ and beyond.”

As befits the band’s extraordinary live reputation, Crowded House hits the road from Sunday with a mini-tour of Australia and New Zealand. They play shows in Europe from May, including the UK’s Isle of Wight festival, and embark on a North American tour in July.

Intriguer will be released through Universal Music companies in the world outside North America. Neil Finn’s catalogue of songs is published by Universal Music Publishing Group and Chrysalis Music outside Australia and New Zealand. There, Mushroom Music is the publisher. Neil Finn and Crowded House have new management: Micheal Bradshaw for Meniscus Media.

The Deluxe Crowded House album will include the standard album tracklisting plus the following DVD content:

*Saturday Sun Official Video PLUS…..
*“Crowded House - upstairs at home”

• Either Side of the World
• Amsterdam
• Saturday sun
• Twice If You're Lucky
• Elephants
• Falling Dove
• Isolation
• Archer's Arrows

*“Crowded House - Live at the Auckland Town Hall”

• Either Side Of The World
• Isolation