Back at Bannermans in Edinburgh for a UK exclusive date with Frankie and The Studs from Hollywood, USA. Frankie, in this case, is Frankie Clarke, the lead singer and guitarist, and daughter of none other than Gilby Clarke. Before the main act, we have one band: local punk Oi boys, The Stoaters.
The Stoaters kick off proceedings with a double hit from last year’s Audio Masochism EP, starting with the fast-paced Oi steamroller “Unite (Alright)” followed by the bouncy “Student Life”—a tasty start to the night. The boys dive into the first of three covers, beginning with “Dirtbird Paradise” by London punk band Trashcat. The track totally suits their style and even led me to check out Trashcat’s music afterward. They also deliver an energetic rendition of Motörhead’s “Ramones” and a unique take on “Adrenochrome” by The Sisters of Mercy.
We get a couple more tracks from Audio Masochism, including the bass-driven “SSRl.” The band introduces a work-in-progress track, “Stoatin’,” performed live for the first time. It was well received by the crowd. They close their fast-paced and enjoyable set with “Working Class Rage,” which exudes a classic punk vibe.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Stoaters’ performance tonight. They’re a must-see for anyone who loves classic punk with a touch of Oi. I’ll definitely check them out again, and you should too — give these boys some love!
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Now, onto the main event: Frankie and The Studs. The band has their debut album set for release on 3rd February next year, and tonight’s setlist draws heavily from it, with a few tracks from previous singles.
They open with the rocky “Can’t Stand You,” followed by “Hole In My Head,” a fast-paced, catchy rocker—a quality start. Next up is “Bimini,” a crunchy, guitar-driven track with a Bloodhound Gang vibe, making it one of my favourites of the night. Their 2019 single “Flash” follows, giving off a pop-punk, Joan Jett-esque, guitar-driven energy.
The band powers through “Headrush” before delivering “Drain Me,” which has an early Foo Fighters feel to it. “She’s Insane” comes next, followed by a fabulous cover of Shocking Blue’s “Venus,” one of my all-time favourite tracks, and the band did it justice tonight.
They close their short but stellar set with the new single “Fuck This Shit,” a bouncy track with an irresistibly catchy chorus.
I thoroughly enjoyed Frankie and The Studs tonight and felt the venue should have been busier for them. I’ll definitely be keeping an eye out for future shows and can’t wait for the debut album in February. Frankie had a fantastic band with her: Elisa on bass, bouncing around all night; Frank on lead guitar, nailing every riff; and Raphael delivering solid drum work. The band were tight, clearly enjoying themselves, and have the perfect frontwoman in Frankie.
If you get the chance, go and catch them live. And don’t forget to check out their debut album when it drops in February!
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Photos by Gary Cooper
