Frank Vibes has independently released his debut project, “Can I Be Frank Volume 1: War Arc,” on all streaming platforms via DistroKid. The album blends Frank’s observations on the challenges faced by his community with his strong influence from graphic novels, fantasy stories, manga, and anime.
The album reflects Frank’s genuine concern for his community and his desire to use his talents and medium to bring attention to it. The album is like a musical graphic novel or manga, following a warrior and his people as they battle invading forces. The album takes current events and turns them into a 47-minute hip-hop epic about war, love, perseverance, and liberation.
The guest vocals on the project were provided by close collaborators of Frank’s, including Rashod “BroGod” Witaker, MISFITChris, Plain Jane, Astro 52, and his biological brother, Phillip Simpkins. The production was handled by Frank’s long-time partners, Shaun “Phyzikal” Duncan (tracks 1, 11, and 15), SHURIKYM 808 (tracks 3, 5, 7, 10, 12, and 14), and Vinnie “Wilderness” Murphy (tracks 2, 4, 6, 8, 9, and 13). Frank was responsible for all of the recording, mixing, and mastering using GarageBand and E-mastered.
In a recent interview with Gen Z Hip-Hop, Frank stated, “I recorded the album while they collected footage for a documentary I released prior to putting the album out. The album was released on January 6th this year on my 27th birthday, and people are saying it’s a great way to start the year musically. There’s talk that I might have an album of the year contender, but only time will tell. I’m just happy to have an album out, and I encourage everyone to buy, download, and stream it.”
