A Live Review by Anastasia Chen // Photos by Mikayla LoBasso
Finneas made his much-anticipated live debut of his new album For Cryin’ Out Loud in Los Angeles at the beautifully intimate Ford Theatre, nestled in the heart of the Hollywood Hills. The venue itself, with its enchanting blend of historic charm and modern allure, set the tone for an unforgettable evening. Stepping into the space, I was immediately struck by the theater’s high ceilings, the clever lighting designs playing with the shadows of the guests as they entered. It’s been a while since I’ve been to a seated concert, and it really transforms the energy—shifting from a bustling crowd to a shared, quiet anticipation. The atmosphere felt intimate, like a gathering of close friends and family, all drawn into Finneas’s orbit, ready to immerse themselves in the stories and emotions embedded in his new album.
As the first notes filled the air, it became clear: this wasn’t just a performance—it was an invitation into Finneas’s world, and we were all eager to enter. We were greeted with the unmistakable echo of his opening track, “For Cryin’ Out Loud,” filling the venue with a chorus of voices. The energy in the room was electric, a perfect harmony between performer and audience. The lighting was mesmerizing, choreographed perfectly to the emotion of each song—cool blues, moody pinks, warm reds, and soft yellows, making every moment feel cinematic. During his haunting ballad “Angel,” a serene blue light washed over the stage, while a delicate mist caught the beams, making the entire space feel dreamlike.
Finneas transitioned seamlessly between older hits and new releases, punctuating each set with stories behind the music, inviting the audience into his creative process with effortless charm. What truly set this night apart was the personal connection Finneas created with everyone in the room. He shared playful anecdotes, including jokes about his family members in the crowd—his girlfriend, family doctor, and lawyer—all of whom felt just as much a part of the evening as he was. One of the most heartfelt moments came when he spoke about his sister, Billie Eilish, in a touching tribute before performing his new track “Family Feud.” He shared how this was the first time they hadn’t performed together, marking a new chapter for both of them.
The concert seemed to pass by in the blink of an eye. I remember wanting more, initially thinking it was too short, but I soon realized the length was perfect—it allowed me to savor each song and moment even more deeply. It was a night full of warmth, humor, and genuine human connection. Finneas managed to turn a performance into an experience that left everyone in the room feeling like they had shared something truly special.
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