New York duo Frog, fresh off the success of their 2023 album ‘Grog’, are back with a fascinating new project: ‘1000 Variations on the Same Song’. This sixth album isn't just a collection of tracks; it's a deep dive into the concept of musical themes and variations. Daniel Bateman, the driving force behind Frog's songwriting, describes the album as exactly that – a journey through different sonic landscapes, all stemming from a central musical core.
The album is a vibrant mix of styles. Listeners will recognise the frenetic indie rock energy reminiscent of their earlier work in tracks like 'TOP OF THE POPS VAR. I' and 'DOOMSCROLLING VAR. II'. There are also echoes of the alt-country flavour found on ‘Count Bateman’ and ‘Grog’, particularly in songs like ‘WHERE U FROM VAR. III’ and ‘ARTHUR MCBRIDE ON THE LOWER EAST SIDE VAR. X’. Adding another layer to the mix, singles such as ‘JUST USE YR HIPS VAR. VI’ and ‘DID SANTA COME VAR. IX’ introduce a smoky, lounge-infused sound.
Bateman's lyrical inspiration is as diverse as the musical styles. He mentions influences ranging from My Chemical Romance and Gucci to Stillwell deals, fatherhood, and even the 6 train, noting, "I was listening to a lot of Mozart, Kodak Black, and Prince, but it doesn't really sound like any of those.” This eclectic mix of influences contributes to the album’s unique and unpredictable feel.
The album's title, ‘1000 Variations on the Same Song’, reflects Bateman's creative process. He explains, “'1000 Variations on the Same Song' is a theme and variations—there are times in your life as a songwriter where you'll start a bunch of stuff that all sounds alike, which can be a problem, something that you want to excise from yourself. This time, I decided to embrace it and take it as far as it could go.” He describes a burst of creativity where the first four variations, including 'HOUSEBROKEN', were recorded in a single, intense 15-minute session. "If you’re working quickly and your goal is to finish an entire album or more in one night, amazing things can happen. How many songs can you write using the same chords? How many songs can you record and finish in one day? The answer to both is near-infinite with the right environment and mindset.”
Since their 2023 return from hiatus, with Daniel’s brother Steve Bateman on drums, Frog has enjoyed both critical acclaim and sold-out shows in the Tri-state area. Now, they’re ready to take their music on the road. In March, Frog embarks on a nine-date North American tour, joined by co-founder Tom White on bass. The tour will take them to cities across the US and Canada, including Los Angeles, New York, Vancouver, Seattle, and more, with a stop at Boise's Treefort Music Fest. Adding to the excitement, Frog will also record a live session at the KEXP studios on March 25th for The Afternoon Show with Larry Mizell, Jr.
For more from Frog, be sure to check out the band on Facebook, Instagram, and X.
