The Frames: The Cost (Plateau)

Whatever else might be said of The Frames and their brand of introspective folk-rock, you can’t fault them for sheer staying power. This year marks the 15th anniversary of their first album. They’re not overly prolific, however, having squeezed out just four more records between that debut release and this one.

Most of The Cost is a succession of forlorn, slightly earnest ballads. Some are saturated in feedback, some are garnished by Colm ...