The Frames

Overview History Discography

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History

The Frames

The Frames, formed in Dublin, Ireland in 1990, are a seminal force in the Irish rock scene. The band has navigated the evolving musical landscape for over three decades, leaving an indelible mark on contemporary Irish music.

Band Lineup and Evolution

As of late 2004, the core lineup of The Frames featured Glen Hansard on vocals and guitar, Joe Doyle on bass guitar and vocals, Colm Mac Con Iomaire on violin, keyboard, and vocals, Rob Bochnik on lead guitar, and Johnny Boyle on drums. During the release of both versions of their album Fitzcarraldo, the band performed under the name "The Frames DC" to distinguish themselves from a similarly named American group.

Musical Legacy and Influence

Emerging from Dublin's vibrant early 90s rock and roll scene, The Frames are recognized as survivors and key contributors to its development. They have been instrumental in fostering the careers of subsequent generations of Irish rock artists, including bands like Turn. The Frames have also shared stages with notable Irish musicians such as Damien Rice and Bell X1, and in December 2004, Glen Hansard collaborated with singer-songwriter Paddy Casey.

Origin of the Name

The band's distinctive name, The Frames, reportedly stems from Glen Hansard's childhood habit of repairing his friends' bicycles. The abundance of bicycle frames at his home led neighbors to refer to it as "the house with the frames," a moniker that eventually inspired the band's name.

Discography Highlights

Their album Longitude, released as a compilation, features re-recorded and remastered tracks curated by producer and former band member Dave Odlum, alongside the new song "None But I."

Collaborations and Solo Projects

Lead singer Glen Hansard has achieved significant international recognition through his collaborations. His work with Czech musician Markéta Irglová resulted in the album The Swell Season and their starring roles in John Carney's acclaimed film Once. The movie garnered critical praise, including the World Cinema Audience Award – Dramatic at the 2007 Sundance Film Festival, and an Academy Award for Best Original Song for "Falling Slowly." Members of The Frames, notably Joe Doyle and Rob Bochnik, have frequently performed as part of The Swell Season and in support of Glen Hansard's solo endeavors.