LIVE REPORT: The Frames at the Mean Fiddler, 1995

The Frames took the stage quietly with no fuss or razzmatazz. What followed was one of the best rock gigs I have seen in Dublin for a long time.
They had their work cut out as – due to the heat, I imagine – the audience were subdued at the beginning of the night. But, by the end everybody was enjoying the great songs, exciting arrengements and a performance that was truly inspiring. Gone is the trad sound they used to have – which I, for one, don’t miss – being replaced by an exciting hard-hitting style with a hint of Smashing Pumpkins.
They opened up the night with 2 or 3 pulsating, warm grooves – check ‘Angel At My Table’ – that have a tendency to break into refreshing, simple and inspiring moments of madness. Then came the onslaught that could have woken the dead! All thrashy guitars, great rhythms and atmospheric fiddle. No overkill, just right. Glen’s singing and performance along with Noreen’s funky moves and backing vocals worked well and the songs emerged as thought-provoking as well as highly melodic.
‘Angel At My Table’, ‘Masquerade’, ‘Giving It All Away’, ‘Back To You Lord’ and the single ‘Revelate’ were highlights but it was all rock solid and by the end of the set, The Frames had everyone behind them, wanting more . . .
A great gig from a band who have worked hard, and it shows. Hopefully now, they will get the rewards and breaks they deserve. Onwards and up!
Words: Jabba Daniels.