7 days ago
Behind the music - Let's Be Frank
Experimental jazz act and Frank Sinatra covers band Let's Be Frank have released their debut single, a cover of Fly Me To The Moon. We asked led singer James Gallen the BIG questions . . .
The band was founded in November 2023 by Dublin City University jazz students and they are "on a mission to rekindle the soul of the Rat Pack era, delivering fresh takes on Sinatra classics with youthful energy, and sharp arrangements".
"Our goal is to capture the elegance and swagger of Sinatra, but give it a heartbeat that feels relevant today," says James.
Tell us three things about yourself . . .
I'm a 20-year-old singer/songwriter and Jazz music is my happy place. Great to sing with the band Let's be Frank, we're all Jazz and Contemporary Music students at Dublin City University and we bring a fresh take on classic Sinatra tunes and everything Jazz in between. The band members are Joey Leamy, Theo Johnson, Sean Crehan and Jarlath Byrne and we love what we do!
I'm happy to be stepping in to a career in music. We've released the first single from our upcoming first album Let's Be Frank, which we had a privilege of recording with Stu Gray at Jealoustown Studios, with mastering by the great Billy Farrell.
How would you describe your music?
A modern uplift on the great classics of the 1950s and 60s.
Frank Sinatra, Chet Baker and, in terms of vocals, I'm a big fan of Mel Tormè. With this mix, you've got an exceptional baritone, a world-class trumpeter and a distinct voice of velvet that stood out of its time.
What was the first gig you ever went to?
I'd love to say it was Sinatra, but I wasn't around when he was singing in his prime! I believe Take That at Croke park was my first gig - great melodies but not sure that's my thing (but thanks to parents for the ticket!).
What was the first record you ever bought?
Frank Sinatra's Watertown album from 1970. Really, this is my favourite album to date. It tells a wonderful story in just ten tracks and, in many ways, is a forgotten masterpiece. If you've any interest in hearing a unique music offering I recommend you give it a listen.
What's your favourite song right now?
I Would be in Love Anyway from Watertown. Our upcoming first album will include our own interpretation of that song.
Favourite lyric of all time?
"Can't you see that you're leading me on, But it's just what I want you to do, Don't you notice how hopelessly I'm lost, Thats why I'm following you" - Misty by the pianist Erroll Garner, 1954.
If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?
It has got to be Autumn Leaves by Joseph Kosma (1945), which is an English version of an older French song, Les Feuilles Mortes (The Dead Leaves). It's really the go-to song for anyone with a love of jazz music, and it's such good fun to improvise as a singer.
Where can people find your music/more information?
You can visit our website or you can visit our Instagram at @_lets_be_frank_band_.
