Finn: A hairier and scarier talent

A multi-instrumentalist, Finn says his primary instrument is the guitar, but adds, "I enjoy playing anything. I grew up in an environment where there were always instruments around. Drums are probably my favourite, but guitar is my main songwriting tool."

The son of Neil Finn (of Split Enz and Crowded House) says he's been surrounded by music all his life. "My father's side, who are Irish Catholics, were always having big gatherings with lots of singing. That's how my dad and his brother [Tim] got their start. It's a tradition that's still going strong with sing-alongs at birthdays and Christmas Eve."

After seven years fronting the indie-pop band Betchadupa, Finn decided to branch out by himself and hasn't regretted the decision. "The cool thing about being a solo artist is that you can do lots of different projects and you never feel restricted."

Besides being a touring member of Crowded House and working with fellow Kiwi musicians Lawrence Arabia and Connan Mockasin, Finn has teamed up with vocalist Eliza-Jane Barnes, the daughter of famed Australian rocker Jimmy Barnes, and just released a five-song EP, Champagne in Seashells.

"Our parents are old friends, so we've known each other forever. About three years ago, when I was in New Zealand recording I'll Be Lightning, she sublet my room in London, started singing in my flatmate's band and completely infiltrated my life. When I returned and heard her sing, I poached her from my friend's band.

"EJ grew up singing harmonies and background vocals for her father's various bands, so she knows how to fit into songs and that's why it works really well with us. Nothing was actually planned out, it was just about singing along."

Liam Finn and Eliza-Jane
w/ Miracle Fortress and The Luyas
At Théâtre Plaza (6505 St-Hubert), Oct. 30
 
 

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