Franana (pronounced like banana - but not necessarily yellow) are going places – no doubt about it. Fuelled by Fran’s (vocals, piano) distinctive voice and unconventional technique, combined with the sensitive and incisive musicianship of Chris Meredith (guitar, fiddle) and Amy Thatcher (piano accordion, fiddle, piano). There is so much latent power in this trio it’s bursting to break free, grab you by the neck and make you listen.

The true force of this trio lies in the blend of song writing and singing. There are songwriters whose stunning lyrics weave their messages through your brain. There are singers who practice their craft with such consummate skill and care that you ‘live’ their songs. Fran does both - the result is consistently compelling, beautiful and delivered with an angst-filled edge that demands that you listen. The personal images she creates make you feel she is singing about your life too. You can hear some echoes of Kate Bush and Alanis Morissette with a soupcon of Lena Lovich in there but Fran’s created a style all her own.

Franana’s 2007 demo CD records three simply stunning songs. ‘Alexander’ overflows with sadness and pain - God knows you wouldn’t want to live through the desolation it records. Yet the song still manages to exert a hypnotic musical calm from within the depths of its cutting drama. A truly dazzling piece of songwriting. ‘Medicine’ is another gem. Again, Fran’s voice gives the lyrics passion and colour. Her style needs more than one listen there’s so much depth. The last track ‘It Takes So Much Time’ cuts like a sharp scalpel, anyone who has any idea about loss cannot help but be moved. It’s crammed with superb lines such as, “The truth is: no one gives a toss about anybody else’s loss. We’re all dealing with our own grief day by day.” This is one of those songs where tears are never far away.

Three tracks just leave you gagging for more. Come on guys when does the CD arrive?