The Way We Ran (Talking House Records)
With a unique blend of rock, folk, pop, and indie, The Way We Ran is a mature, well-balanced album. It’s skillful but not pretentious, and deceptively simple. With lyrics that range in tone from charmingly self-deprecating to downright conceited, Franks comes across as refreshingly direct and pretty funny. With this much musical diversity, many listeners will probably find something to love here.
At Bottom of the Hill (1233 17th St., San Francisco) on February 1. 8:30 p.m., $10
