30 APRIL 2024 By Shi Bradley Frank Thomas has lived in Arcadia since 1971. He’s a Vietnam War veteran and, as of this year, a published rock artist. Thomas’s band, 5 Iron Franc, recently released its first single across streaming platforms. 5 Iron Franc is comprised of lead singer Thomas, producer/drummer James Boshay (also known as Musical Mechanical Genius or MMG), drummer Scott Razz, and guitarists Dee Jay mes and Nick Marr. The name comes from a combination of the lead singer’s nickname, “Iron Frank,” and the logo for French currency. They came together organically: friends who turned their love of music into something to share with the world. “One day, some friends suggested we get together and jam,” Thomas said. “5 Iron Franc came about like a lucky draw in Texas Hold ‘em!” The band was initially comprised of Thomas and MMG, and the search for other members was challenging at first – but Thomas said it was worthwhile because the members of 5 Iron Franc “understand the vision MMG and I wanted to accomplish.” Once the group was formed, they worked on the single “More Money Than Brains (Powerball Blues),” which was released in February. “I wrote the song maybe six or seven years ago,” Thomas said. “I’ve had it in my pocket and didn’t really do anything with it. The motivation was, ‘What if I did win Powerball?’ I’d probably have more money than brains because I walk into a room and forget what I walked in there for.” T h e b a n d recorded in the studio with some hired performers to complete the sou nd . M i x i ng and mastering took around week. “Without a doubt, the best part about the band has been the camaraderie we’ve built and the blend of talents that harmonize to make good noise – upbeat rock that makes you smile. We make tunes that make you want to sing and dance along,” Thomas said. The song’s reception has been positive thus far, with one review saying they enjoy the ‘blues-flavored rock.’ Outside of music, MMG practices luthiery (making and repairing string instruments) and teaches computer classes. Jaymes works in construction and has a passion for motorsports, and Marr is a marketing professional who enjoys mountain biking. They also said they love spending time with family and friends first and foremost. Thomas is retired and involved in several charitable and community efforts. He’s been awarded for his work with Two Hearts Horsemanship, a charity that aids at-risk children. He regularly contributes to Big Brothers Big Sisters and Crisis Nursery charities. Thomas was inspired to give back to the community after his experience with the American Cancer Society, which helped him pay for his son’s cancer treatment. While the band doesn’t have any live shows coming up, they are performing at a car wash event for Big Brothers Big Sisters in October. The future looks bright for 5 Iron Franc as they continue to record new music and work on a full-length project. From a Saturday jam sesh to publishing their first single Nick Marr, Scott Razz, James Boshay, Frank Thomas and Dee Jaymes. PHOTO COURTESY OF FRANK THOMAS !"#$%&#'(')%&*#+'' #$,'*,-#'.(/#'(*%&#'' #$,'*(0)'$(-'*,,0'' #$,'1(2(/(),/",'' 3,45,'*&"6#7 Two new construction homes, in two equally as awesome locations...and your chance to choose is COMING SOON! If you are currently working with an agent, please disregard. NATHAN ANDERSON + PAUL NICOLETTI 480.888.5800 | NATEANDPAUL.COM SCAN TO CHECK OUT OUR NEW WEBSITE! Or give us a call at 602.730.0668 Today ROC #314154 3832 E MONTEROSA STREET 4501 E TURNEY AVENUE We are embarking on an ambitious plan to acquire six more properties in Arcadia in 2024. Renowned for our commitment to quality and the community of Arcadia, we aim to further contribute to the area’s charm and livability with these new custom homes. Join us in shaping your neighborhood’s future. Let’s build a brighter Arcadia together. Contact us anytime.

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