Vancouver-based four-piece FRANKIIE are a dream-rock band of four friends who first garnered attention for their 2015 EP, Girl of Infinity. Before heading out on a North American tour in support of their new full-length, Forget Your Head, out now on Paper Bag, the band shared some of their favourite hometown spots. Location photos by Joshua Grafstein.
The Clubhouse (238 E. 1st Ave.)
We threw our album release party in this inclusive space, which is becoming the heartbeat of the LGBTQ+ community. They are known for throwing really awesome parties, having outdoor movie nights and great rock'n'roll shows. We hope that the city supports preserving the building and stopping the development that is in the process of threatening its future!
Uncle Abe's (3032 Main St.)
Abe's is one of our favourite spots for a casual beer on their dog-friendly patio, playing a silly game with best buds or a late night stop on your way home from a gig. They have cozy couches, great picklebacks and awesome staff — plus, you don't have to worry about staining the upholstery.
Jonathan Rogers Park (110 W. 7th Ave.)
In the middle of Mount Pleasant, Jonathan Rogers Park is our favourite spot for a band meeting (if it's not raining). It's a chill spot surrounded by great coffee (Milano), beer (33 Acres) and jam spaces (SoundHouse). From the hill, you can watch the sunset with a view of the city and mountain skyline.
Neptoon Records (3561 Main St.)
Neptoon Records is an integral part of the music community in Vancouver. Owned by Rob and Ben Frith, they throw fun in-store performances and have an amazing collection of new and used vinyl. Our pal Tim the Mute helps run the shop and is a huge supporter of the local music scene. Tim also owns a small label called Kingfisher Bluez that is home to many up and coming Vancouver bands. He also released our first seven-inch vinyl record a couple years ago!
The Soap Dispensary & Kitchen Staples (3718 Main St.)
We save our jars and bring them into Soap Dispensary regularly. This shop is the first refill shop in the city that specializes in soaps, household cleaners, personal care products and cooking ingredients. Everything smells amazing and you always walk out with home improvement inspiration while feeling great about minimizing waste.
El Kartel (104 E. Pender St.)
In Chinatown, you can find one of our favourite shops, El Kartel. Run by an amazing couple, Pablo and MJ, they have been supporting local streetwear designers for over a decade. El Kartel has become a staple in the arts community for hosting unique art shows and really fun parties. This shop is filled with a lot of good vibes and you can snag some gear from our drummer Zoe's brand, FUHR Co.
La Mezcaleria (1622 Commercial Dr.)
Located on one of Vancouver's most iconic streets, Commercial Drive, you can find this family-run authentic Mexican restaurant. They have a great selection of tequila and mezcal and serve their queso fundido in a molten lava rock bowl. La Mezcaleria is a hot spot for dates with lovers or friends. If you have to wait to snag a spot, take a stroll along Commercial Drive or grab a cocktail at the Libra Room next door.
The Clubhouse (238 E. 1st Ave.)
We threw our album release party in this inclusive space, which is becoming the heartbeat of the LGBTQ+ community. They are known for throwing really awesome parties, having outdoor movie nights and great rock'n'roll shows. We hope that the city supports preserving the building and stopping the development that is in the process of threatening its future!
Uncle Abe's (3032 Main St.)
Abe's is one of our favourite spots for a casual beer on their dog-friendly patio, playing a silly game with best buds or a late night stop on your way home from a gig. They have cozy couches, great picklebacks and awesome staff — plus, you don't have to worry about staining the upholstery.
Jonathan Rogers Park (110 W. 7th Ave.)
In the middle of Mount Pleasant, Jonathan Rogers Park is our favourite spot for a band meeting (if it's not raining). It's a chill spot surrounded by great coffee (Milano), beer (33 Acres) and jam spaces (SoundHouse). From the hill, you can watch the sunset with a view of the city and mountain skyline.
Neptoon Records (3561 Main St.)
Neptoon Records is an integral part of the music community in Vancouver. Owned by Rob and Ben Frith, they throw fun in-store performances and have an amazing collection of new and used vinyl. Our pal Tim the Mute helps run the shop and is a huge supporter of the local music scene. Tim also owns a small label called Kingfisher Bluez that is home to many up and coming Vancouver bands. He also released our first seven-inch vinyl record a couple years ago!
The Soap Dispensary & Kitchen Staples (3718 Main St.)
We save our jars and bring them into Soap Dispensary regularly. This shop is the first refill shop in the city that specializes in soaps, household cleaners, personal care products and cooking ingredients. Everything smells amazing and you always walk out with home improvement inspiration while feeling great about minimizing waste.
El Kartel (104 E. Pender St.)
In Chinatown, you can find one of our favourite shops, El Kartel. Run by an amazing couple, Pablo and MJ, they have been supporting local streetwear designers for over a decade. El Kartel has become a staple in the arts community for hosting unique art shows and really fun parties. This shop is filled with a lot of good vibes and you can snag some gear from our drummer Zoe's brand, FUHR Co.
La Mezcaleria (1622 Commercial Dr.)
Located on one of Vancouver's most iconic streets, Commercial Drive, you can find this family-run authentic Mexican restaurant. They have a great selection of tequila and mezcal and serve their queso fundido in a molten lava rock bowl. La Mezcaleria is a hot spot for dates with lovers or friends. If you have to wait to snag a spot, take a stroll along Commercial Drive or grab a cocktail at the Libra Room next door.
