The Frank and Walters

The Frank and Walters

The Frank and Walters are a rock band from Cork, Ireland. Formed in 1990, the group takes its name from two eccentric Cork characters. The lineup consists of Paul Linehan on vocals and bass, Niall Linehan on guitar, and Ashley Keating on drums; Niall Linehan is later replaced by Kevin Pedreschi in 2004, although the current listed members are Paul Linehan, Niall Linehan and Ashley Keating.

Early releases and label history

The band signs to Setanta in 1991 and debuts with the EP EP1. Its lead track, “Fashion Crisis Hits New York”, becomes an indie hit. The follow-up EP.2 follows soon after. The group then signs to Go! Discs and records the Happy Busman EP with producer Edwyn Collins.

Chart success and later albums

After touring in support of Carter USM, an Ian Broudie remix of the LP track “After All” reaches number 11 in the UK Singles Chart. Following a long break, the band returns with Grand Parade, which includes contributions from Gus Dudgeon, and the Indian Ocean EP in 1997. Further releases include Beauty Becomes More Than Life in 1998 and Glass in 2000.

2000s activity

Setanta issues a best-of compilation in 2002. In 2004, Niall Linehan leaves the band and Kevin Pedreschi joins. The group then signs a new deal with FIFA Records in Ireland and releases the triple-album B-sides collection Souvenirs. The album Renewed Interest In Happiness follows in 2006.