Liam Finn: I'll Be Lightning

Label: Yep Roc

New Zealand’s Liam Finn is the 24-year-old son of Neil Finn (Crowded House, Spilt Enz) and the former frontman of the band Betchadupa. I’ll Be Lightning is a triumphant solo debut that showcases his songwriting talent and range. For the most part, the songs feature simple but effective instrumentation – guitar, sometimes bass or piano, a basic drumbeat – and are carried by Finn’s high, expressive voice delivering lovely Elliott Smith-style melodies and poignant, bittersweet lyrics like “I’m not broken, just a little energy spent.” This formula works well, yielding memorable songs including “Better To Be,” “Second Chance,” and “Fire In Your Belly.” Finn also throws in a few surprises, though, like the mostly a capella hymn “Lullaby” and the rocker “Lead Balloon,” on which he cuts loose with his best rock ‘n’ roll scream. Finn will have no problem stepping out of his father’s shadow. (Kiri)