Regarded as the first New Zealand band to gain significant recognition outside of Australasia,[2] they were initially noted for their progressive/art rock sound, flamboyant visual style and theatrical performances.

In the early years of Split Enz, they were known as an "adventurous, flamboyant art-rock band" with unique, theatrical live shows.

In 1976, the band moved to England, where they recorded their second album Second Thoughts, produced by Roxy Music guitarist Phil Manzanera.

Over time, as well as being the band's guitarist, Neil Finn became their co-lead singer and a key songwriter, both alongside his brother Tim.

Split Enz' third album, Dizrythmia, was recorded at London's AIR Studios with producer, and former Beatles engineer, Geoff Emerick, from June to July 1977.

An attempted reunion with Phil Judd lasted around a month before he departed for the second and final time, after which the remaining members continued as a six-piece.

[2] Released as a single later that year, "I See Red" marked a significant move away from the band's early progressive/art rock style, towards high-energy, guitar-based power pop.

Using borrowed equipment, Split Enz played what proved to be a pivotal concert, stunning friends and fans alike with a legendary performance at the second Nambassa Festival in January 1979.

After the album's completion, Malcolm Green departed, and the band continued as a five-piece, with Noel Crombie moving from percussionist to drummer.

[2] After releasing Conflicting Emotions in 1983, the band became a six-piece again with the addition of drummer Paul Hester, while Crombie returned to his previous role of percussionist.

[2] Neil Finn and Paul Hester went on to form a new band called the Mullanes with bassist Nick Seymour.

They had changed their name to Crowded House by the time their self-titled first album was released in 1986, going on to achieve worldwide success.

[8] Tim Finn also joined Crowded House as a fourth member from 1989 to 1991, during which time the band recorded and released their third album Woodface.

[12] The band instead appeared at a benefit concert in February 1990 which raised funds to support the town's recovery.

[13] The band reunited in 1993 for their twentieth anniversary tour, during which they played at Christchurch, Wellington, and Auckland, supported by The Holy Toledos.