Harper Finn Unveils Personal Journey in Debut Album “Silo Park”

Harper Finn, the son of renowned musician Tim Finn and nephew of Neil Finn, is preparing to launch his debut album, “Silo Park,” on October 31, 2023. The 27-year-old singer-songwriter, who initially considered careers in rugby, aviation, and film, has found his calling in music, despite the weight of his family’s legacy. As he reflects on his journey, Finn shares insights into his artistic evolution and the deeply personal nature of his new work.

A Musical Awakening

Growing up in a family steeped in musical talent, Finn acknowledges the influence of his father, uncle, and cousin, Liam Finn. Yet, he insists that there was no overt pressure to follow their path. Speaking from Warner Music’s headquarters in Auckland, Finn recounts his early ambitions: “I wanted to play rugby, wanted to be a pilot, wanted to be a film director.” It was not until he joined a school band at the age of 16 that he began to see music as more than just a hobby.

“It was that camaraderie,” he explains, recalling the joy of performing with peers. “We can travel, we can play these shows, we can hang out and have laughs.” His school experience, particularly at Takapuna Grammar School, where other musical talents like Lorde also emerged, solidified his interest in songwriting. Finn emphasizes that his drive to pursue music stemmed more from the friendships he formed rather than familial expectations.

Exploring New Themes in “Silo Park”

Finn’s album, named after a notable area in Auckland, reflects his personal experiences, relationships, and life as a young adult. The record captures the essence of his recent move to New York, where he immersed himself in the vibrant creative culture. “I think of the album as a time capsule,” he remarks, expressing a desire to revisit the emotions and relationships documented within its tracks.

One particularly striking piece, the title track “Silo Park,” is described as “dark” and draws inspiration from an unsettling experience in Auckland. Finn chose to conclude his album with this song to create a contrast, offering listeners an unexpected twist as they journey through the record. “It was to throw people off the scent,” he notes, acknowledging the complexity of his artistic narrative.

Living in New York has significantly shaped Finn’s songwriting process. He describes the city as a place that demands observation and engagement with diverse experiences. “You have to be an observer,” he says, noting how the fast-paced lifestyle provided a wealth of stories to draw from. “I had to sort of continuously introduce myself as, ‘I’m Harper from New Zealand.’” This necessity to adapt quickly has been pivotal in his growth as an artist.

Finn credits the city’s unique energy with enhancing his creativity, allowing him to write more prolifically than ever before. His work in a local club, performing cover songs, also contributed to his artistic development. “I think New York was fundamental to this album being done,” he states, emphasizing the transformative impact of his time there.

Collaboration played a critical role in the album’s production. Finn worked closely with producer Sam Evian, whose expertise in crafting emotive soundscapes helped shape the final product. “It’s kind of like dating,” Finn explains about their partnership. “You know pretty much within the first five minutes if it’s going to work.” Their strong rapport allowed Finn to feel vulnerable and open in the studio, fostering an environment conducive to artistic expression.

The Road Ahead

With the album set for release, Finn is eager to take his music on tour, starting in America before returning to New Zealand. His upcoming performances in Auckland on November 20 and Wellington on November 22 mark significant milestones in his burgeoning career. Reflecting on his first solo album, he admits to feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. “I just feel super, super grateful and very, very thankful when people come to the shows,” he shares.

As Finn prepares to share his work with audiences, he remains grounded in the experiences that shaped his music. “The nerves kind of come from that place of just, you know, deep gratitude,” he concludes, looking forward to connecting with fans through his songs. With “Silo Park” set to resonate with listeners, Finn’s journey as an artist is only just beginning.