NZ Listener’s Songs of the Week: Paul Kelly’s ode to his granddaughter, Bic Runga’s to Paris and Harper Finn’s to Silo Park

NZ Listener’s Songs of the Week

Paul Kelly’s Ode to His Granddaughter

Veteran Australian singer-songwriter Paul Kelly offers a heartfelt track from his new album Seventy, which marks his seven decades. The song is dedicated to his two-year-old granddaughter and is a gentle country ballad with bittersweet tones. Kelly reflects on whether he will live to see her 20th birthday and includes a generational apology:

"Oh I do fear my generation has been sleeping / Deep inside a fever dream / we’ve sewn the whirlwind you’ll be reaping / and eaten all the cream."

This is not exactly When I’m Sixty-Four, but it is a touching addition to Kelly’s many family-themed songs. It’s a perfect listen for grandfathers, with tissues nearby.

Bic Runga’s Electro-Inspired Return

Once known for her acoustic style, Bic Runga shows an electronic edge on her upcoming comeback album. She takes inspiration from Kraftwerk’s Trans-Europe Express, transporting the mood to Paris, a city where she once lived. Unless [translate:Париж] is a damp person.

Harper Finn’s Debut Album Arrival

Harper Finn, the fifth member of the renowned Finn family exported globally, quietly released his accomplished debut album recently.

Summary: This week’s featured songs explore family bonds through Paul Kelly’s reflective ballad for his granddaughter, Bic Runga’s electronic-influenced return, and Harper Finn’s promising debut.

Would you like the tone to be more formal or casual?

NZ Herald — 2025-11-08