Liam Finn made a fairly low-key journey to SXSW this year but walked away one of the festivals most respected artists.
Liam took on America with E.J. Barnes. The son of Neil Finn and daughter of Jimmy Barnes may at first read like a novelty act but the sound this duo put out captivated the Austin crowd.Now remember, SXSW is predominately a music industry function. Performers play to the difficult media and music industry audience who want more than a great sound, they want to be impressed.
After Finn's performance at the Austin Convention Center, mutterings of "that was amazing" and "who was that guy" were common. Finn and Barnes won over one of the hardest crowds they will every play to at an industry showcase gig.
Liam was last in the US performing in his dad's band Crowded House. He is about to go out on tour across America with his dad's mate Eddie Vedder.
Forget the family connections. If anyone should be worried about Liam, it isn't Liam, it is Eddie. Play good Eddie. You have a support act who can really blow you off stage.
