Tuesday 11 December 2012

There's room at the top for Franco and the Dreadnought.

Previously of International One fame, former lead singer and chief songwriter Franco (John Baylock) has now decided to embark on his own troubadour journey, all of which will be seen through the eyes of the Dreadnought, his trusty DXME acoustic machine. In an industry that seems to be saturated with singer songwriters, there is reason to believe that Franco and the Dreadnought are very much the hidden treasure that need to be unearthed.

As confident and as articulate as any Mancunian musician needs to be, Franco and the Dreadnought presents to the world, a collection of songs and live performances that are so heartfelt and honest they leave you hanging on to every word. His nimble fingers, flawless harmonies and dynamic voice, draw up the obvious connotations to fellow Northerners 'Paul Lidell''Liam Frost and the Slowdown Family' and 'John Bramwell (I am Kloot)', however, in terms of Franco's unbelievable melodies and pure rawness I feel that 'The Twang' are a more suitable reference point.
 
There appears to be so much depth to Franco and the Dreadnought's intelligent songwriting ability, with each song  filled with thoughtful hooks and heart on sleeve lyrics that seem capable of taking life by the scruff of it's neck to face each challenge head on. Recent single 'Last Man Standing' is as sharp as anything that I've heard in the last decade, its atmospheric production is first rate, as well as Franco's voice which acts as a commanding beacon to the audience.
 
'Moonshine and Roses', 'Bulletproof' and  'Muskateers' are simply unforgettable too, highlighting Franco and the Dreadnought's knack of writing and producing such excellent songs that need to be heard by every man and his dog.
 
With a songwriting partnership as talented as Franco and the Dreadnought's, they could ultimately be forgiven for taking a backseat approach to gaining recognition, but not Franco. Every opportunity to play a gig, sell an EP or even to give out one of his business cards to every single woman and child in the building, he's there. Ultimately, he is a hardworking and down to earth songwriter that sings beautiful melodies about the grittiness of growing up in Manchester.

Having already experienced a strong taste of success with International One, it appears that Franco and the Dreadnought are hungry for much more . . .
Enjoy!

BF x

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