Franc O'Shea - Brit bass bandleader
by Steve Lawson, Bassist Magazine, UK. March 2000
Introducing a genuine rarity - a British electric jazz bass player who is not only brilliant, but leading his own band
I think it's fair to say that the Americans have got a bit of a head start on us Brits in terms of taking bass seriously when fronting a band. Thank God for players like Franc O'Shea. His debut album, Esprit is a vibrant slice of fusion - not crap 70s Moog noodling nonsense, but 90s electric jazz blending styles and influences from all over the globe, where - despite his considerable technical abilities - the compositions take president over bass pyrotechnics.
Considering Franc's musical beginnings, it's not surprising that his musical vision is a bit wider than 'fast is best'. "I've always thought of myself as more than just a bass player", he confirms. "A lot of projects I've been involved with I've co-founded, so it wasn't a big transition to leading my own group. I've been composing ever since I started playing bass when I was 12."
But surely, it's difficult for a bassist/leader to get gigs in the UK? "Not really" he argues. "Music is about expressing yourself and if you're sincere, and believe in what you're doing, that's what will come across and touch people no matter what instrument you play."
The story behind his album Esprit reflects a 'go out and get it' approach to getting the music heard, in stark contrast to the many wannabies desperate for record company money before playing a note. "I borrowed some money and paid for the album to be recorded myself. I had a finished product before I even approached anyone. I touted it around and ended up going with Alltone as their offer was the best - it's a label run by musicians for musicians."
Franc, whose CV already includes a session stint with soulster Lisa Moorish as well as co-founding Latin Jazz-Funk outfit Urubu, is not resting on his laurels, either. "I'm already working on material for the next album, and I am gigging with my own group promoting Esprit and I'm working with Urubu, who are just about to record for Loaded Records."
With some great reviews and the backing of radio stations such as Jazz FM, the future's bright for Franc - watch out for him and when everyone else realises how good he is, remember where you heard it first -