The Frames - Set List

Hugely popular in their homeland of Ireland, the Frames top the charts and play to 30,000 people in Dublin. The aptly-titled live album is their fifth and the one they're hoping will connect in America. The quintet's sound draws upon such acts as the Clash (with whom they share a love of the anthemic) and the Pixies (with whom they share a quest for more oblique explorations), as well as on native traditions (albeit updated with a big wallop and galloping propulsion). Recorded before an enthusiastic audience, the band is clearly spurred on by the adoration, as well as a sense of community. The songs often feel like they're giving voice to their countrymen, celebrating a shared sense of justice, outrage, home, faith, and hope. One of the secrets to the band's dazzling and incendiary sound is the mix of full throttle guitar and soaring violin. Lead singer Glen Hansard builds heartfelt ruminations into his between song patter, and leads the band down many surprise avenues, with bits of Bob Marley's "Redemption Song" and Johnny Cash's "Ring of Fire" appearing out of their own numbers. --David Greenberger Amazon.com

Just buy it

I was given this CD on Sunday and listened to it today (Tuesday) for the first time. I would say that it is the most striking experience I have had listening to a CD for the first time since, well, perhaps the first time I heard London Calling. Beautiful, haunting, energetic, I could go on and on. Instead do yourself a HUGE favor and just get yourself a copy of this as quickly as you possibly can. Wonderful from start to finish. August 19, 2008

I am a big The Frames Fan Now!

I got introduced to The Frames after seeing the movie "Once." I absolutely loved the movie and the soundtrack. The actual band in the movie was The Swell Season which was formerly The Frames where they replaced one member with Marketa Irglova (the lady singer/piano player in the movie). Both bands are great; however, my favorite is The Frames. These guys are absolutely magical and electrifyingly musical, and lyrical. They rock! My two favorite albums of The Frames that you must buy whether you are a fan or not are The Set List and the Fitscarraldo. If you are a music lover, you will absolutely love the Set List and Fitscarraldo by The Frames. Do the right thing and help these great musicians out by spreading the word. Although now they are becoming very well known and famous, they are very humble and they show true appreciation of their listeners and fans. They do great music and they deserve your recognition. April 11, 2008

A band best "live"

This is my third cd of the Frames which I have bought, and it is quite obvious that this is a band who should be seen live. This recording captures an ecstatic audience and a band that is just feeding off them to give an outstanding performance. That performance is captured brilliantly in this recording, which must rank as one of the best live rock concert recordings of recent years.g February 8, 2008

Spirited Irish rock without all the proselytising

In all honesty, this is the only way in which one can be introduced appropriately to The Frames. Their live performances add an extra dimension to music that, in the studio versions, at times fails to represent the true spirit and character of the band (and particularly of Glen Hansard, their lead singer). That being said, of course, the studio albums are somewhat more understated and exquisite, and I would recommend them regardless.

However, live is where The Frames really hit their stride. The sheer energy and exuberance of their performances are a thing to be reckoned with, and having seen them live I can truly say that it was one of the most enjoyable live music experiences of my life. Their wonderfully passionate Irish enthusiasm (and I hate to say that, as it is such a tired cliche for Irish groups, but this really is the case) pervades each and every song, from the rollicking opening of 'Revelate' to the increasingly anthemic 'Lay Me Down' and the oddly comforting closer, 'The Blood.' And it is on songs such as 'Fitzcarraldo' and 'Your Face' that the impact of this live element is most evident. Understated as studio recordings, here they are imbued with such glorious passion and spirit that they are entirely new songs (and my favourites on this record, simply for their complete trnsformation).

'Set List' is one of the few live albums I know of that is equally as enjoyable to listen to as a whole set or as standalone songs. If you appreciate music with true heart and spirit, if you like Irish music, or if you are merely looking for a rock band with an element of real character, pick up 'Set List.' For me it confirms The Frames as Ireland's best band, by a mile. Better than U2 in my books - all of the spirit without the posturing and proselytising of Bono. Glen Hansard is an outstanding frontman, and thankfully through his role in 'Once' more and more people are being engaged by his thoroughly charming personality, a personality that is clearly reflected in this album. 5 stars. September 28, 2007

Very little risk....

This is the first review I've ever been compelled to write. An Irish friend suggested The Frames to me based on my taste in music. I bought "Set List" on a whim, having only heard the song Fitzcarraldo. Sometimes live albums are best appreciated with prior knowlege of the music, but this album is so verstitle and impactful that I will waste no time aquiring the rest of their albums. Very charismatic with a huge style range. The lead singer is clearly a wonderful storyteller, both with lyrics and onstage. I haven't taken the CD out of the player since it when in, and have told everyone I know about it. I feel ill-prepared to rate the songs, or even discuss the styles, as I am very new to them. Still, its important for me to share my newfound musical love, in case there is a newbie weighing whether or not they should take a risk. DO IT! May 7, 2006

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