Meet Al Frantic

An Interview with Al Frantic

Hi Al, how many years have you been playing?

I've been playing on and off for 40 plus years.  

What musicians influenced you?

Chuck Berry, BB King, Jimi Hendrix, Robin Trower as musicians and James Dewar as a singer.

How many bands have you been in?

Six or seven - only two that matter including Frantic.  The first band that I felt had any merit was called "The Rat Patrol" around 1980.  We  played lots of Police and Queen.  Learning those songs made me feel like a "real" musician finally.  The biggest challenge was always poor equipment.  I was a kid making $50.00 a week.

What's it like to gig?

I've had opportunities to play for up to two or three thousand people.  The real reward is getting people engaged.  A bar with five people who are really into the music can be just as rewarding.  I always thank folks for "paying attention." Like nearly all the local musicians I know, I surely don't do it for the money but getting paid and repeat gigs also affirm the notion that you are a musician and you might really have some talent.

How often do you practice?

I gig so much, I rarely rehearse or practice.  I built a home studio to have a rehearsal / recording space.  It's become a gear warehouse.  My band and I learn new material and try it out at gigs.  Some of it flies, and some doesn't.  I'm blessed to play with some really great players.

What would you say to a new musician starting out?

Listen to what came before you.  Listen to Carl Perkins.  Listen to Motown.  Listen to everything.  Avoid technology that glosses over your inadequacies.  Janis Joplin didn't have autotune.  Don't be afraid to make mistakes... sometimes you will blow your own mind by taking a chance.

What was one of your accomplishments as a musician?

The biggest accomplishment for me is being in my 50's and having 20-somethings compliment my singing and playing.  Every time that happens, I feel like, "My job is done here!"

I also say to people who express any amazement that I still play in a band that other men my age play golf.  I hate golf.  I love music.  Golfers pay to play, I get paid to play...and unless you're Tiger Woods, nobody's applauding from the sidelines.

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