Split Enz, the iconic New Zealand band, is back in the spotlight with the release of a new box set that celebrates their early work. This collection highlights the band’s unique contributions to music, particularly during a transformative era for the industry. As part of this revival, the song “Sweet Dreams” is being unearthed, showcasing the group’s distinct style and artistic vision.
MTV’s Impact and Split Enz’s Rise
On August 1, 1981, MTV made its debut, featuring four different music videos from Split Enz within its first 24 hours. This moment marked a significant turning point for the band, which had only recently made its Billboard Hot 100 debut with the hit “I Got You” in 1980. The band’s visually striking performances, characterized by imaginative makeup and costumes, found a perfect platform in the new music television landscape.
Before the rise of MTV, Split Enz had already established themselves as one of the most visually oriented bands, with a collection of music videos that had gained traction on television in New Zealand and Australia. Their early works were not just musical compositions; they were full artistic experiences that combined sound and visual flair.
A Closer Look at “Sweet Dreams”
“Sweet Dreams” exemplifies the band’s creativity, featuring the emotive lyrics and distinctive voice of guitarist Phil Judd. As a co-founder of Split Enz, Judd played a key role in shaping the band’s early sound alongside frontman Tim Finn. The music video for “Sweet Dreams,” directed by percussionist Noel Crombie, showcases the surreal hairstyles and outfits that became a hallmark of the band’s aesthetic.
The recently released box set includes five CDs, featuring a new 2025 remix of “Sweet Dreams” by keyboardist Eddie Rayner. This fresh take highlights the intricate details of the original 1976 track, which was produced by the renowned Phil Manzanera of Roxy Music fame. The remix aims to enhance the listener’s experience by bringing out more vivid sonic details, particularly in the song’s instrumental bridge.
Although Judd departed from Split Enz in 1977, he briefly rejoined the band in 1978. His influence on their early music remains significant, especially in tracks like “Under the Wheel,” which showcases the progressive songwriting style he and Finn developed in the mid-1970s.
Split Enz disbanded in 1984 but has reunited multiple times since, with a notable appearance planned at the Electric Avenue Festival in New Zealand in February 2026. While Judd has not participated in these reunions, his legacy within the band continues to resonate through their music.
Following the breakup of Split Enz, Neil Finn, Tim’s younger brother, gained international recognition with his next band, Crowded House. Tim Finn’s songwriting evolved over the years, producing some of the band’s most memorable tracks, including “I Got You” and the Beatlesque “Missing Person.” His solo career began to take shape as he shifted focus from the band’s collaborative efforts.
The new box set provides fans and newcomers alike with an opportunity to rediscover the innovative work of Split Enz during their formative years. With their signature blend of theatricality and musical talent, Split Enz remains a vital part of the music landscape, and this collection serves as a testament to their enduring legacy.
