Donavon Frankenreiter

Donavon Frankenreiter is a Californian singer-songwriter who makes, or at least made, music very similar to Jack Johnson. Unsurprisingly really, given that he has been a close friend of fellow surfer Jack Johnson for yonks. His self-titled debut was perfect, beach campfire music – slow, hook-driven folk rock (one of the songs even featured Johnson). More recently, Frankenreiter has broadened his pallet with bluesy soft rock, reggae and world-laced America.
It probably won’t come as a shock to hear that when I first saw him live he was supporting none other than Jack Johnson. However, this was years and years ago, just as Frankenreiter had launched his musical career and before Johnson became a superstar. It was at a tiny, dingy club in Falmouth, Cornwall; Johnson had wanted to do a special gig in the surfing capital of the UK.
I owned and love Frankenreiter’s debut and was expecting low-key acoustic music. However, I was pleasantly surprised to find a ramped-up, full band show, with his minimal surf ballads turned into extended, bluesy jams. If I had to guess, I would say that his early live touring shaped the recorded albums that followed. Song like ‘Free’ and ‘It Don’t Matter’ sounded fuller live, with the singer-songwriter showcasing real skill on the guitar, which he played with a much flashier style. The chilled out entertainer was eventually welcomed back to join Jack Johnson for a couple of tracks during his later headline slot; by then, Donavon Frankenreiter didn’t need to win over the audience.

Donavon Frankenreiter does not only have one of the coolest names in the music business, he also has one of the coolest stage shows. A self-confessed lover of the surf, the laid back beach sounds have always been a heavy influence on his guitar led sounds and these translate well tonight. From the moment Donavon begins his set you are transported to an Australian beach, sat beside a campfire as somebody takes charge of the musical accompaniment.

In Frankenreiter's case it is incredibly fine tuned, well practiced music that is both minimalistic and sincere. His music has quite a cult following, especially in the surf community and the easy listening vibes demonstrated are a clear indication as to why this is. The man himself has a relaxed demeanour when it comes to his stage interaction, everything is chilled out yet he still builds a pretty good connection with the crowds gathered. He pleases the masses with the likes of 'Glow' and 'Life, Love & Laughter' that really highlight his unusual vocal. He also seems to spring into life during the more complex guitar instrumentals, much to the delight of the audience who applaud intently.

Donavon sounded great and his band is incredibly talented. Three guys producing that kind of sound is hard to imagine until you realize the one guy playing bass and guitar while looping, effectively able to clone himself on the fly. Just amazing feel and sound.

Q & BQ

DFrank killed it again with one other excellent musician and guitar playing partner and a tape deck!! So much love in the room, always a great vibe at his concerts, outstanding!!

Simply fantastic! He is really amazing, enjoyed every single moment! And also the group plays great music and makes you really enjoy the time.
I hope it comes back soon.

Awesome show as always. His kid played a tune. He let someone from the audience sing and he played some great songs to dance and sing along to. Always recommend

Those guys rocked last night! Great energy between Matt Grundy and Donovan and I could've watched them play for hours. I am so happy I went to see the show.

This was the first time I have Seen Donavon in a venue with all seating. He didn't disappoint, but the seats threw us all for a loop when we first arrived!