Francine – Shake My Bones
My Way WAY 1203 [1989]
Shake My Bones – Sweet Lovin / Little Girl of Mine – Alley of Sorrow
Francine was formed in 1987 with Pete Salomaa on bass, Mika Jokinen on vocals and guitar, and Esa Nurminen on drums. The name of this Finnish band was inspired by the song “Francine” by ZZ Top. After recording a demo, Tude Usvalla joined the band on drums in 1989. Jari Paksuben completed the lineup when he joined Francine on rhythm guitar, and Mika switched from electric to double bass.
The band quickly gained recognition and was offered a contract by My Way Records. This led to the recording of their debut EP, which was released in the fall of 1989.
The title track is a fantastic Neo-Rockabilly song reminiscent of Stray Cats and Polecats with modern touches similar to Long Tall Texans. “Sweet Lovin’” is a softer, more melodic, and almost acoustic track with a swinging rhythm and a jazzy touch. “Little Girl Of Mine” may be less original, but the punchy double bass and jerky rhythm will please fans of the genre. The EP concludes with “Alley Of Sorrow,” a superb Jazzy Rockabilly track that can be likened to “The Best Way To Jive” by the Wild Ones and “The Midnight Special” by the Nitros.
Official website.
Fred ”Virgil” Turgis