Frank Benbini of Uncle Frank
Words by Glenn Sargeant
Photo Credit: PR
Uncle Frank is a UK-based band which has released their single ‘So High’ from their forthcoming album and Frank Benbini in the band sat down with JLTT to talk about the band:
Could you please tell us about how the band Uncle Frank was founded/formed?
The band was founded by myself and Naim, my music partner in Uncle Frank, and it was formed about 20 years ago. Uncle Frank came about at a time where we were writing so much that we needed another vessel for the songs, so by accident I started Uncle Frank. But it was soon clear that this was bigger than we first thought.
Your latest single ‘So High’ is the second single from Uncle Frank’s fourth album ‘Diablo’ on Last Man Media. In my notes I wrote “A groovy summer anthem with elements of The Isley Brothers, Steely Dan and The Rolling Stones complete with a catchy chorus.” Would you say that is a fair assessment or am I off base slightly?
You are absolutely spot-on! It’s so funny you’ve picked up on The Rolling Stones and Steely Dan, because when we first start writing songs we always start with the whiteboard and write on the top the inspirational artists we are trying to chase, and written on that very board was “Rolling Stones, Steely Dan” – so 10 points to you.
Where did you record ‘Diablo’ and how did you want to approach this record?
We recorded the album at our own studios, called Ridd HQ, in our hometown of Leicester. The approach was to take our time, as the majority of the record was written towards the end of lockdown. So, for a change, nothing was rushed. The approach was to home in on a more classic rock sound and get it to sound the best we could. We are very happy with the album.
What can people expect from ‘Diablo’?
A more heavier sound, yet still with a smidgen of Uncle Frank classic melodic pop sensibility.
The single ‘So High’ is also accompanied by a music video. What was the thought process behind it?
Myself and Naim were in California touring a few months back. It was one of our rare days off and we found ourselves on Venice Beach with this lovely boardwalk that goes down into the sea, and we happen to have a camera with us, so I said, “Let’s do a little take on The Verve’s ‘Bittersweet Symphony’ video, and I’ll walk down the boardwalk wording the song to camera in the sun – and it was such a glorious day. The video is so sun drenched and perfect for a summer classic rock sound, so you could say it was a little bit of a fluke. But it made for a great music video.
As the drummer in the Fun Lovin’ Criminals, what two pieces of advice would you give to a novice drummer?
Be careful what you wish for, it’s not always pretty. And always be yourself – don’t let labels, management and producers push you somewhere that doesn’t feel right.
Do you have a favoured stage drum kit, type and brand of cymbals, etc?
Yes, I do. A Premier Elite full maple drum kit, with my signature Paiste cymbals. A match made in heaven.
What music do you enjoy listening to and do you have any artist/album recommendations?
I enjoy listening to reggae, hip hop, Chet Baker, Prince, Rival Sons, Y U Q T…and you should check out an album called ‘En anglais’ by Mathieu Boogaerts.
Does Uncle Frank have any plans to tour the UK to support the album release?
Yes, we will be playing some live shows in October 2023, so keep an eye out for announcements.
What makes Frank Benbini happy and what makes you unhappy?
My dog makes me happy, and family, being healthy. What makes me unhappy is when my dreaded anxiety takes me down.
Photos Supplied By Planet Earth Publicity
Uncle Frank’s latest single ‘So High’ is out now on Last Man Media. Their fourth studio album ‘Diablo’ is out now also on Last Man Media. For more information visit: Uncle Frank Official Band Website (unclefrankband.com)
