Idaho artists are making a name for themselves, especially the indie rock band Finn Riggins. The trio of Lisa Simpson, Eric Gilbert and Cameron Bouiss have worked hard at creating a sound that is solely Finn Riggins, and it's working—really well.
The three met while at the University of Idaho. The band's name is a bridging of two Idaho towns. Moving to Hailey, home for Bouiss, after graduating allowed the band members to hone in on their music. Since 2006, the band has been producing CDs, touring the U.S., playing large music festivals such as South by Southwest and have opened for the well-known indie rock band Built to Spill, which also has ties to Idaho.
Seeing Finn Riggins perform is not only hearing an original sound and production, it's an artistic experience. All three members are excellent musicians who rock hard and are conscious of living in the 21st century and in Idaho. Finn Riggins members combine their love of music and experimenting with sound to present an inspirational music experience for their audience. Gilbert's keyboards, Simpson's guitar and vocals and Bouiss' drums and steel drum combine to make an eclectic sound that is a signature Finn Riggins sound.
Recently the band has been part of some music videos extending their ideas and sound one step further. Their last album "Vs. Wilderness," released on Portland's local Tender Loving Empire label, contains the song "Dali," a standout track on the CD that was made into a music video that includes Gilbert and Simpson. In addition, another music video was made for the song "Wake (Keep This Town Alive)," also from "Vs. Wilderness," written and performed by Finn Riggins with animated video by Jason Sievers.
Finn Riggins will perform at Sego Restaurant and Bar in Ketchum for a New Year's Eve show on Friday, Dec. 31, at 10:30 p.m. Tickets are $25. To buy tickets, call 928-7878.
"We haven't played since Halloween," Gilbert said. "This New Year's eve show will get us back in the saddle."
Gilbert said the band played in October at The Fillmore in San Francisco for five dates, opening for Built to Spill.
"It was cool," Gilbert said. "It's an epicenter for rock 'n' roll. There's so much history there. The sound was amazing and we had a great crew from the Bay Area."
Finn Riggins has made many friends from its constant touring. In addition, it created a loyal network of musicians who come to Idaho to play when possible.
"We're working on a new album," Gilbert said. "We're staying closer to home and not doing big tours so we can write new stuff."
Gilbert and Simpson have made Boise their new home, happily settling into the local arts scene and community.
Sabina Dana Plasse: splasse@mtexpress.com
Eric Gilbert, Lisa Simpson and Cameron Bouiss are the band Finn Riggins. Photo by
