Finneas brought charm, talent, and plenty of surprises to his sold-out show at Melbourne’s iconic Forum Theatre on January 13, 2023. Known for his exceptional songwriting and production prowess, the multi-Grammy winner showcased not only his musical genius but also his infectious humour and warmth, making for an unforgettable evening.
Finneas set the tone for a night that blended introspection and fun. The crowd was delighted when he shared that he’d been watching Bluey during his time in Australia, earning a massive cheer.
The energy of the night took a uniquely Aussie turn when a fan tossed a cork hat onto the stage. Finneas graciously accepted it, and in true collaborative spirit, the hat became a star of the show as band members humorously passed it around throughout the performance.
A particularly heartfelt moment came when Finneas spotted a fan holding a birthday sign. He led the audience in singing “Happy Birthday,” turning the intimate venue into a collective celebration. Later, a raucous chant of “Aussie, Aussie, Aussie! Oi, Oi, Oi!” erupted, with Finneas grinning and joining in.
Concluding with the album’s title track, “For Cryin’ Out Loud!,” Finneas opted for a sincere finish without an encore, leaving the audience in appreciative reflection. The concert was a testament to his growth as an artist, offering a blend of timeless sound and contemporary relevance that left a lasting impression on all in attendance.
Words and pictures by Monique Pizzica