by Craig HarrisA founding member of DeDanaan, Alec Finn has been one of Celtic music's most influential musicians. Equally skillful on guitar and bouzouki, Finn continues to use instrumental virtuosity and emotional soulfulness to bring traditional Celtic music up to date. Although born in Yorskhire, England, Finn spent most of his early life in western Ireland. Moving to Dublin in the early-1960s, he was soon performing acoustic blues in local clubs and pubs. Shortly after moving to Galway, and acquiring a Greek bouzouki, he became a regular performer at informal jam sessions in pubs. During these sessions, Finn became associated with similar-musicians including fiddler Frankie Gavin. In, these musicians agreed to pool their resources and began performing as De Danaan. While De Danaan has undergone numerous personnel changes, Finn continues to be a vital member. Recording a duo album with Gavin. Finn released his debut solo album, Blue Shamrock in. A critical success, Blue Shamrock was described by Hot Press as "a beautifully crafted, highly satisfying, collection of Irish airs".