A new Manchester band with Galway roots has dropped its debut EP Heaven Here, combining musical traditions from the West of Ireland with Northwest England’s rock n’ roll.
Foxford is the brainchild of brothers Michael and Liam Finnigan, born and raised in south Manchester to the strains of The Beatles and Oasis, but maintaining a close connection to their family’s roots in Galway and Wicklow, and the tradition of the seisiún.
The two musicians have strong separate careers in England, but it was a trip back ‘home’ to Ireland when they were asked to play a joint weekend residency in a pub that birthed of Foxford.
Michael, a self-taught pianist, guitarist and lyricist, previously released his solo record ‘Home Again’ featured by BBC Introducing, and has played half-time shows for Manchester United fans at Old Trafford.
“Our music must have a west of Ireland influence, as I remember our grandfather singing songs growing up when we visited the Nally family home in Winfield, near Moylough,” he says. “There’s a real west of Ireland, Irish catholic school thread through the ‘Manchester sound’ from Morrissey right up to Oasis and beyond,” he says, adding that a tour to Galway is on the cards for Foxford later this year.
Liam, another self taught multi-instrumentalist and singer, has collaborated with singer/songwriter Jake Mattison, and toured with Emeli Sandé. His influences range from Bob Dylan to Otis Redding, and he explains that the name ‘Foxford’ comes from the name of his grandparents’ home in Wicklow.
Heaven Here includes two original tracks, including ‘The Only Face in the Crowd,’ a poignant piano ballad about love and connection, featuring strings from acclaimed producer George Shilling who worked with Blur, Ocean Colour Scene, Primal Scream, and Frank Turner.
Also included is a soulful cover of ‘Tennessee Whiskey’ showcasing the duo’s dynamic chemistry, with Liam on vocals and Michael on organ.
“This EP reflects our journey and what inspires us,” says Liam. “We hope listeners feel something real, and are reminded of the connections that matter.”
Heaven Here is out now on all major streaming platforms
