Francis & the Drakes

Hailing from Plymouth in the South-West of England, Francis & the Drakes are influenced both musically and lyrically by their surroundings. Be it the local area's close connection with the sea, or its location on the doorstep of the rolling hills of Devon or the endless beaches of Cowall, Francis & the Drakes' surroundings are entwined with their songs.
 

The band grew out of Plymouth's acoustic café scene, where singer-songwriters Steve Gribble and Dave Ankers first provided harmonies for each other's songs. Joined by Rob Stillwell on drums, Age Charters on Keys and Luke McGowan on bass, they have created their very own acoustic-pop ramshackle and roll.
 

The band's first album, 'The Arlington Road Sessions', was released in July 2009 to critical acclaim. Their latest album, 'The Lighthouse', released in April 2010, is another step-up, both in terms of songwriting and production.
 

"The chemistry between the guys really shone through.... If you get a chance to see this band in action, remember that after the show they'll probably be back at work in their studio creating more raucous, folk-enthused pop songs." - Kev Hutchings, BBC Radio, 2009