For a 10-time Grammy Award winner, it took a surprisingly long time for FINNEAS to develop a solo sound that feels distinctly his own. He is rightly credited for his innovative production work alongside his sister Billie Eilish, and the work will forever go down in history as changing the course of pop music for an entire generation. But his work under his own guise has so far felt like this: Obviously less specific. His 2021 debut, Optimist, was a solid collection of radio-friendly songwriting, but it seemed to lack the personality needed to lift him out of his brother’s shadow.
In order to create a sequel, FINNEAS decided to change tack. Rather than go off on his own, he chose to assemble a band of sorts and create “For Cryin’ Out Loud!” As a collaborative effort, the chemical reaction between players sparks at the venue. Perhaps this is what makes the dusky Americana of “Little Window” or the Harry Styles-esque shimmy of “2001” shine. Perhaps the musician’s second idea is simply more interesting. But from the jazz-bar piano and ironic lyrics of opener “Starfucker” (“You think you’re so underground/But you’re not that deep”) to “Cleats,” it’s pretty mediocre Junkie It begins in this area, but develops as follows. A rich and unexpected turn in the middle eight, “For Cryin’ Out Loud!” A unique ring. The penultimate ballad, “Family Feud,” is poignant with its sharp, specific lyrics: “And you’re only 22/And the world is watching you/Judging your every move.” If you don’t, you can reach the realm of schmaltz. In fact, I feel its inclusion is noteworthy. His tribute to his star sister is captured on an album that proves he’s more than capable on his own.
