The Frames | Fitzcarraldo [Vinyl Album] LP

“Fitzcarraldo” is the sixth studio album by the Irish rock band The Frames, released in 1995. The album marked a significant departure from the band’s earlier work, with a more experimental sound that blended rock, folk, and experimental elements.
The album takes its name from the Werner Herzog film of the same name, which tells the story of a man who attempts to build an opera house in the Amazon jungle. This theme of ambition and perseverance in the face of adversity runs throughout the album, as frontman Glen Hansard explores themes of love, loss, and the human experience.

The album opens with the hauntingly beautiful track “Revelate,” which sets the tone for the rest of the album with its soaring vocals and intricate guitar work. From there, the album takes the listener on a journey through a diverse range of sounds and emotions, from the upbeat rock of “What Happens When the Heart Just Stops” to the melancholic balladry of “Fitzcarraldo.”

One of the standout tracks on the album is “Lay Me Down,” a tender and heartfelt ballad that showcases Hansard’s powerful vocals and poetic lyricism. The song has become a fan favourite and is often performed live by the band. Another highlight of the album is the epic nine-minute track “Fitzcarraldo,” which features lush instrumentation and intricate guitar work. The song is a tribute to the film of the same name and explores themes of ambition and determination in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles.

Overall, “Fitzcarraldo” is a powerful and deeply personal album that showcases The Frames at their most ambitious and experimental. With its diverse range of sounds and emotions, the album remains a fan favourite and a landmark in the Irish rock canon.