The Frames: Ireland's Indie Rock Storytellers
The Frames are an Irish indie rock band formed in Dublin, known for their emotionally charged live performances and a dedicated following built over three decades. While achieving significant success in their home country, their international recognition grew notably through the solo career of frontman Glen Hansard, an Academy Award winner for the song "Falling Slowly" from the film Once.
Early Career
The Frames were formed in Dublin in 1990 by Glen Hansard, who named the band after his childhood habit of fixing bicycle frames. Their debut album, Another Love Song, was released in 1992, establishing their early sound which blended rock with folk influences. This period laid the groundwork for their reputation as a compelling live act within the Dublin music scene.
Breakthrough
The band's breakthrough in Ireland came with their 1999 album, Dance the Devil, which featured the anthemic single "Revelate." This release solidified their status and led to increased album sales and sold-out shows nationally. While major international chart success eluded them, their albums consistently performed well in Ireland, with later works like For the Birds (2001) and Burn the Maps (2004) receiving critical acclaim and strengthening their cult status.
Key Tracks
Revelate - This driving anthem became a staple of their live sets and a fan favorite, encapsulating the raw energy of The Frames' performances.
Fitzcarraldo - A track showcasing their dynamic range, building from quiet introspection to a powerful, cathartic rock climax.
Star Star - A more melodic and accessible song that highlights Glen Hansard's distinct vocal delivery and the band's knack for crafting memorable hooks.
Falling Slowly - Though originally written and performed by Hansard and Markéta Irglová for Once, the song became intrinsically linked to The Frames' story after winning the Academy Award and was frequently incorporated into their concerts.
Throughout the 2000s, The Frames continued to release music, including the album The Cost in 2006, while Hansard's work on Once brought a new global audience to the band's back catalog. Their influence on the Irish indie rock scene is considerable, having paved the way for a wave of artist-focused, lyrically profound guitar bands. The Frames' legacy is one of perseverance, artistic integrity, and a deep connection with their audience, forged through countless passionate live performances.
Fans of The Frames' heartfelt brand of indie rock might also enjoy other Irish artists in a similar vein, such as The Pogues for their folk-rock storytelling, The Script for their polished pop-rock anthems, or Damien Rice for his intimate and emotionally raw acoustic style.
The music of The Frames is a fixture on many independent music radio stations and online rock radio streams that champion guitar-driven, lyric-focused rock. Their songs, from early indie rock anthems to later, more nuanced albums, resonate with listeners seeking authenticity and powerful songwriting.
Listeners can discover the enduring music of The Frames through the radio stations featured on our website, where their catalog of Irish indie rock continues to be celebrated and played.
