The FMs, a band blending lo-fi dream pop, new wave, and disco, have announced their upcoming album 51122, set for release on November 22. The album, produced by David Werner, follows the band's 2024 release PINK + BLACK and holds special significance for the group. The title 51122 corresponds to the date May 11, 2022, marking the day Frankie Rex, founding member of The FMs, tragically passed away due to a fentanyl overdose. This album captures Rex’s final recorded vocals, making it a deeply emotional release for the band.
The lead single, “A Means to an End,” a cover of a Joy Division classic, stands out for its intense arrangement of synths and digital drums. Bandmate Matte Namer explained how Frankie and they had always wanted to cover a Joy Division track, and “A Means to an End” felt like the perfect choice. The recording captures Frankie’s voice in one of their best performances, solidifying the single as a powerful tribute to their memory. The FMs’ cover of "A Means to an End" serves as a tribute to that legacy, channeling Joy Division's haunting intensity while honoring the memory of their late bandmate, Frankie Rex.
The FMs will celebrate the release of 51122 with a special show in New York City later this year, with details still to come. The album features ten tracks and represents a new level of maturity for the group, thanks in part to producer David Werner, who helped shape and refine the sound. The band’s music is deeply personal, and this album is expected to be a reflection of loss, resilience, and hope.
Originally formed by Matte Namer and Frankie Rex in 2016, The FMs gained a reputation in New York City for their underground shows and bold musical style. Now, with new members joining Namer, the band is ready to move forward while honoring Frankie’s legacy. 51122 promises to be a heartfelt and transformative record for both the band and their fans.